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Story: Insects – overview

Wing-clapping cicada

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The largest cicadas in New Zealand, Amphipsalta, are descended from Australian ancestors. Males produce loud sounds by contracting and relaxing a pair of membranes on their abdomen. These cicadas also sing by clapping their wings against the ground or a branch. Listen to the song of one of New Zealand’s cicadas.

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Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision

Reference: 38421

Image: Private collection, by George Gibbs

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How to cite this page

George Gibbs, Insects – overview – Long-distance travellers, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/natural-sounds/10064/wing-clapping-cicada (accessed 24 June 2026).

Story by George Gibbs, published 1 March 2009.