Science at the Local Library: From Where the Cicada Calls

Learn more about cicadas with Dr Nathan Emery, where he’ll answer some of the most common questions about them and share results from his citizen science project ‘The Great Cicada Blitz’, which examined the association of cicada species and the plants they are found on.

The onset of warmer weather in Australia not only brings the sound of splashing in pools and beaches, the hum of lawnmowers or the sizzle of a barbeque, but also the symphony of cicada chorus. With at least 800 species known in Australia, we have by far the most diverse cicada fauna of any country.

Dr. Nathan Emery will answer some of the most common cicada questions: What is a cicada? How does a cicada make noise? Why are cicadas so loud?

In Australia’s east coast cities, several cicada species, including the Silver Princess, Black Prince and Floury Baker, have adapted to urban living. But why are these and other cicada species part of the urban orchestra? In hopes of starting to unravel these ecological mysteries, Nathan will share results from his citizen science project ‘The Great Cicada Blitz’, which examined the association of cicada species and the plants they are found on.

The talk is free, but bookings are essential to secure your spot. Book at the Science at the Local Library: From Where the Cicada Calls Eventbrite page.

Dr. Nathan Emery has self-published the book ‘A photo guide to common cicadas of the Greater Sydney Region’, leads the citizen science project ‘The Great Cicada Blitz’ on iNaturalist, and co-runs the outreach program ‘Cicadarama’.