In addition to vertebrates and predatory insects, cicadas face an enemy from a different kingdom – deadly fungi. Although the cicada was many times larger than its foe, the stink bug delivered a perfidious kiss with its beak, immobilizing the cicada and allowing the stink bug to leisurely suck its blood. On one occasion I saw a stealthy predatory stink bug sneak up on an adult cicada resting on a branch.
Ants are not the only six-legged predators of cicadas. Fallen adult cicadas may be discovered and overwhelmed by fierce ground dwelling ants. Many cicadas attempting to shed their skins and attain maturity were attacked and dismembered by this marauding band of six-legged predators. Unfortunately, this tree is home to a healthy colony of carpenter ants on the prowl for arthropod meat in the tree and on the ground below. A few weeks ago the vanguard of periodical cicadas began to emerge beneath my neighbor’s massive oak tree. Predators with backbones are not the only nemeses cicadas have to fear. One owner claimed his pooch gained five pounds the last time periodical cicadas emerged. Cicadas are on the menu for pets as well, including cats and dogs. Squirrels dine on cicadas above ground and small mammals like skunks may excavate nymphs in the soil. In addition to feathered reptiles, turtles are reported to snack on ill-fated cicadas that have fallen into water. While visiting with a birdwatcher this weekend, she remarked that sparrows, starlings, and grackles looked like they had just eaten a third helping at an all-night buffet.
In my neighborhood where a boisterous emergence of cicadas is underway, predators are very busy in and around trees. Scientists suggest the most significant ecosystem function provided by cicadas is the transfer of nutrients from the plant world to the realm of predators above ground.
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