When the nymph is ready to emerge as an adult, it burrows up to the surface. It then climbs up a tree trunk, fence post or other vertical surface, attaching itself with its sharp claws. The skin splits down the back as the adult pushes out, head first. The brittle empty husks can often be seen, still hanging by the claws. Adult cicadas feed on plant sap and only live several weeks – long enough to mate and lay their eggs.
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In0471Mrt.tif
Photograph by John Marris, Lincoln University
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