Here are 4 common New Zealand cicadas that you may see and likely hear during summer. These are just a few of the more than 40 species of cicada in the country.
Well, we are at that time of year again when the bush is alive with the ceaseless pulsing sounds of cicadas. If you are in the bush for hours the sound can drive you a bit nutty. However, I have come to enjoy cicada season because I associate it with long, warm, sunny days to get out and explore. You may get lucky and see some cicadas up close. If you do you’ll notice that there are many different species. Here are some of the common ones that you may hear and/or see. You can also check out these 7 cicada facts here.
Why Are There So Many Species of Cicada In New Zealand?
New Zealand has a very large range of different habitats, from coast to alpine and more. The country had no cicadas until approximately 11 million years ago, when scientists think two species arrived from Australia (presumably on the prevailing westerly winds that head from Australia to New Zealand that also brought many other animals). Then due to a long period of isolation and lots of available habitats those initial species spread out and evolved into the 40 of so endemic species that exist in New Zealand today.
How Many Species Of Cicada Are In New Zealand?
There are more than 40 species of cicada across the country. They can be found in a broad range of habitats, including grassland (tussock), forest, coast, and even alpine. These species overlap in their habitats, such that generally there are multiple species living in the same area. They find each other through their distinctive songs.
4 Common New Zealand Cicadas
Chorus cicada
The chorus cicada (Amphisalta zealandica) is one of the most widespread and is also the largest species. It can be found all over the North Island and most of the South Island. This species is black, green, and brown with stripes on their body.
April Green Cicada
This bright green cicada (Kikihia ochrina) can be found across the North Island (except Northland) and the top of the South Island
Clapping Cicada
This species (Amphisalta cingulata) can only be found in the North Island.
High Alpine Cicada
This is one of the highest living species of cicadas in the world. This species (Maoricicada nigra) lives in the southern alps between 1,200 m and 1,850 m.