Overview
This bug was on a stick I accidentally knocked into the water, and it couldn’t make it to dry land. I waded in and scooped it and put it on this sunny spot. It turns out it has a super bright white belly. I did not photograph it until it was settled, because being knocked into the water seemed like enough trouble. It had a bad day, but it only took about five minutes for it to compose itself and fly away.
- Type
- Insect
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Targeted Insecticide Application
Apply appropriate insecticide following label directions. Timing is critical — treat during the vulnerable larval or adult emergence stage for maximum effectiveness.
Biological Control Agents
Introduce or encourage natural predators and parasitoids. Options include releasing predatory beetles, parasitic wasps, or applying Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar pests.
Infested Material Removal
Prune and destroy infested branches and plant material. Remove fallen debris that may harbor eggs or larvae. Dispose of material away from healthy trees.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Swamp Cicada. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Swamp Cicada?
This bug was on a stick I accidentally knocked into the water, and it couldn’t make it to dry land. I waded in and scooped it and put it on this sunny spot. It turns out it has a super bright white belly. I did not photograph it until it was settled, because being knocked into the water seemed like enough trouble. It had a bad day, but it only took about five minutes for it to compose itself and fly away.
What are the symptoms of Swamp Cicada?
Where is Swamp Cicada currently found?
Swamp Cicada is currently active in Louisiana, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Ohio, Maryland, Arkansas, Delaware, Kansas, Indiana, Illinois, Tennessee, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Kentucky, Maine, Florida. It has been reported in 21 total states across the United States.
How do I treat Swamp Cicada?
Treatment options for Swamp Cicada include: Targeted Insecticide Application, Biological Control Agents, Infested Material Removal. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.