Drymopsalta crepitum

Drymopsalta crepitum is a species of cicada, also known as the Cape York heath-buzzer, in the true cicada family, Cicadettinae subfamily and Cicadettini tribe. It is native to Australia. It was described in 2005 by Australian entomologist Anthony Ewart.

Etymology

The specific epithet crepitum refers to the calls made by the cicadas.

Description

The length of the forewing is 11–16 mm.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in Far North Queensland from the tip of the Cape York Peninsula south-east to near Cooktown and south-west to Weipa and Normanton. The associated habitat is heathland, forest with understorey shrubs, and riparian communities.

Behaviour

The cicadas are xylem feeders. Adults are heard from December to March, clinging to stems and branches, uttering high-pitched series of chirps punctuated by intervening “ticks”.