In the United States, the summer nights are filled with the melodic sounds of insects. From the east coast to the west coast, these creatures can be heard singing and chirping, creating a symphony of nature. While some of these nocturnal insects are more well-known, like cicadas, there are others that are not as frequently heard about. In this article, Wildlife Informer introduces you to four types of insects that make noise at night in the summer. From the mysterious cicadas with their unique life cycles to the tree crickets emitting high-pitched sounds, and the field crickets chirping in the tall grass, to the green katydids blending in with their forest homes, these insects provide a soundtrack to the warm summer nights.
4 Insects That Make Noise At Night In The Summer – With Photos
When the sun sets and the warm summer night settles in, a symphony of sounds begins. Among the many voices of the night, there are four insects in particular that make their presence known through their cacophonous choruses. These insects are the cicadas, tree crickets, field crickets, and katydids. Let’s explore each of these fascinating creatures and learn more about their appearance, range, behavior, and habitat.
1. Cicadas
Cicadas, most commonly known for their buzzing and clicking sounds, are a staple of the summer nights in the eastern United States. These insects have a black body with distinctive red eyes. They are unique in that they have specific life cycles, with different broods emerging from the earth in set time frames.
The range of cicadas extends across the eastern United States. Each species of cicada has a specific range within this larger area. The periodical cicadas, which have life cycles of either 13 or 17 years, are found in different regions depending on their cycle length. The annual species of cicadas can be found throughout the summer all over the United States.
Cicadas spend a large portion of their life as nymphs underground. When the time comes, they emerge in large groups, creating a deafening chorus during the early summer nights. Despite their loud sounds, cicadas are harmless insects, and their presence is a sign of the summer season.
2. Tree Crickets
Tree crickets are another insect that can be frequently heard during summer nights in the United States. These insects emit a high-pitched sound that is often mistaken for the sound of cicadas. Male tree crickets are the ones responsible for making this noise.
The appearance of tree crickets is light green or whitish in color. They are nocturnal creatures and are most active around dusk. Tree crickets are commonly found in trees, weeds, and shrubbery across North America. While they may sometimes damage trees when females lay their eggs, they are not considered pests.
These insects are seldom seen but frequently heard, and their songs add to the night-time symphony of summer.
3. Field Crickets
Field crickets, with their distinctive chirping sounds, are a familiar summer night noise across the United States. These insects have a dark brown or black appearance. Male field crickets are particularly noisy, often chirping up to 30 times in a minute.
Field crickets can be found in tall grass across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They are known for their ability to burrow underground or seek shelter in debris piles. Field crickets are considered useful creatures as they feed on pest insects and decaying matter.
While they are not considered pests themselves, large populations of field crickets can be annoying if they frequently feed in yards or gardens. In some countries, crickets are even popular as a snack!
4. Katydids
Katydids are large, winged insects that are known for their distinctive green appearance. These insects are closely related to grasshoppers and crickets. They are often found in forests and shrubbery, where their green coloring allows them to blend in perfectly.
The katydids found in North America are part of a larger group of species found around the world. They are a common noise maker during summer nights, with their raspy sounds filling the air. There are around 255 species of katydids in North America, with some even camouflaged to look like leaves.
These insects are most active during the late night and early morning hours. While some species can be heard during the day, their songs are most commonly heard in the cooler hours of the night. Katydids are a fascinating addition to the summer night chorus.
Conclusion
In the warm summer nights of North America, the songs of insects fill the air. Among these noise-makers are the cicadas, tree crickets, field crickets, and katydids. Each of these insects has its own unique appearance, range, behavior, and habitat.
Cicadas, with their distinct red eyes and loud buzzing, are a common sight and sound across the eastern United States. Tree crickets, although rarely seen, can be heard with their high-pitched songs. Field crickets chirp persistently and are particularly loud in tall grass. Katydids, with their large wings and green appearance, are a regular presence in forests and shrubbery.
These insects contribute to the symphony of nature, adding their unique voices to the warm summer nights. Listening to their songs is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
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Wildlife Informer is a trusted source of information about wildlife and exotic pets. Their mission is to provide free information and pictures of wildlife to their readers. They also share helpful tips and guides on a variety of topics related to animals and nature.
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