In the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon , where nature sings in every corner, cicadas — also known as chicharras or cycads —are an essential part of the tropical forest's sound and ecological landscape. Their distinctive song accompanies visitors and locals, especially during the warmer hours of the day.
The unmistakable sound of cicadas is not only a symbol of the Amazon; it's also a vital means of communication for these insects. Males produce these powerful calls to attract females and establish their territory. The vibration is so strong that it can be heard hundreds of meters away.
The life cycle of cicadas is one of the most fascinating in the animal kingdom. Many species spend most of their lives underground, feeding on root sap. After several years—in some cases up to 17—they emerge for their brief adult life, the main purpose of which is reproduction. This transformation from subterranean nymph to singing flyer is a natural spectacle worthy of admiration.
Although they often go unnoticed, cicadas play a vital role in Amazonian ecosystems:
In some Amazonian cultures, the song of cicadas is associated with the arrival of the rains or the change of seasons. Their presence has inspired numerous legends and traditional songs, highlighting their importance not only biologically but also culturally.
Conserving the Amazon forests also means preserving the cicadas' home. Their song is an indicator of the ecosystem's health: a forest filled with cicadas is a living and vibrant forest.
When you visit the Ecuadorian Amazon, stop for a moment, close your eyes, and listen: in this natural concert, the cicadas will be the true stars.
