Birrima varians
Birrima varians is a species or species complex of cicadas, also known as the black tree-ticker, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is endemic to Australia. It was described in 1834 by German entomologist Ernst Friedrich Germar.
Description
The length of the forewing is 24–32 mm.
Distribution and habitat
The species complex is found in subtropical and warm temperate areas of eastern Australia, from the Atherton Tableland in north-eastern Queensland, southwards to Armidale in northern New South Wales. The associated habitat is open forest, especially with Eucalyptus tereticornis.
Behaviour
Adults may be heard from August to March, sometimes to May, clinging to trees, shrubs and artificial structures, or flying about actively, uttering slow, repeated zeeeet calls.