How Do You Spell DOGDAY CICADA?

1. The "dogday cicada" is a common name for the insect species, Neotibicen canicularis, identified as a large, greenish-brown insect found primarily in the eastern parts of the United States and Canada. The name "dogday" refers to the period associated with the heat of summer when these cicadas are most active, typically during mid-July to early September.

   The dogday cicada belongs to the family Cicadidae and is known for its distinctive buzzing or whirring sound produced by the males as a mating call. It has transparent, veined wings and a stout body, measuring about one and a half inches long. Its eyes are large, and it possesses long antennae, facilitating the detection of sounds and locating potential mates.

   The life cycle of the dogday cicada, like other cicadas, consists of distinct stages: egg, nymph, and adult. After the eggs are laid in tree branches, they hatch, and the small nymphs fall to the ground. The nymphs burrow into the soil where they remain for several years, feeding on tree root sap. Once fully developed, they emerge from the ground, climb onto trees, and shed their nymphal exoskeleton, transitioning into winged adults.

   These cicadas are primarily herbivorous, consuming sap from the xylem of tree branches. They pose no harm to humans but can cause temporary disruption due to their loud chorus of calls. Ecologically, the dogday cicada plays a role in nutrient recycling and as a food source for many predators, including birds, small mammals, and insects.

   Overall, the dogday cicada is a prominent, seasonal insect recognized for its distinctive sounds and presence during the hot summer months.

Common Misspellings for DOGDAY CICADA

The etymology of the term "dogday cicada" can be broken down as follows:

1. Dog-day: "Dog days" refers to the hottest period of summer, usually occurring between early July and early September in the Northern Hemisphere. The term potentially originated from the ancient belief that Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (also known as the "Great Dog"), contributed to the intense heat during this period.

2. Cicada: The word "cicada" comes from the Latin term "cicada", which is derived from the Greek word "tettix". A cicada is an insect known for its distinctive song produced by the males through a specialized structure called a "tymbal" found in its abdomen.

Combining these two words, "dogday cicada" refers to a specific type of cicada that appears during the dog days of summer.