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Scissor grinder

Scissor grinder

Neotibicen pruinosus

A species of Cicada, Also known as Green annual cicada, Pharoh bug, Dryfly, July-fly, Scissor grinder cicada

There are many common names for the Neotibicen pruinosus but is most known as the scissor grinder. The "silver-bellied cicada" has also been suggested given that the second half of its scientific name (pruinosus) comes from the Latin word for frosty: pruinosa. This comes from its brilliant, silver belly. Otherwise, it has earned its well-known name from the unique song that it produces.

General Info About Scissor grinder
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Attributes of Scissor grinder
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Habitat
woodland; suburb; riparian
Adult Food Sources
Xylem sap from deciduous trees, xylem sap from woody stems of shrubs, xylem sap from twigs of trees and shrubs, xylem sap from vines, xylem sap from grasses
Larva Food Source
Xylem sap from roots of various deciduous trees, xylem sap from roots of shrubs, xylem sap from roots of grasses, xylem sap from roots of herbaceous vegetation, xylem sap from roots of vines
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Scissor grinder is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Piercing-sucking mouthparts
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Species Status of Scissor grinder
It can be found in North America and Mexico.
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Life Cycle of Scissor grinder
Egg Eggs of scissor grinder are often laid in plant tissue and are tiny, oblong, and may vary in color. They remain dormant until conditions trigger hatching.
Nymph After hatching, the nymphs resemble miniature adults without wings and with different coloration. As they grow, they shed their exoskeleton multiple times, gradually changing in shape and size.
Adult Emerging as adults, scissor grinder develop wings and functional reproductive organs. The body color may darken, and the exoskeleton hardens. Adults focus on mating, feeding, and, for some species, producing distinctive sounds.
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Adult Size of Scissor grinder
3 - 5 cm
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Predators of Scissor grinder Larvae
Ants, beetles, spiders, wasps, mammals (such as moles and shrews)
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Predators of Adult Scissor grinder
Birds, wasps, rodents, lizards, spiders, bats, mantis, tree frogs
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Interesting Facts About Scissor grinder
Uniquely, scissor grinder can adjust its body temperature by using its large surface area to excess heat when environments become scorching.
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Scientific Classification of Scissor grinder
Tips for Finding Scissor grinder
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Youth Habitat of Scissor grinder
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Scissor grinder
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Scissor grinder
The best time to find adult scissor grinder is during the day, especially in the late morning or afternoon when temperatures are higher, as they are most active during warm weather. Nymphs can be found throughout the day as they are not as active above ground compared to adults.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Scissor grinder
Warm and sunny weather is generally best for finding adult scissor grinder, following periods of rain which may trigger emergences. Nymphs can be found irrespective of weather conditions as long as the ground is not frozen or overly dry.
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How and Where Can You Find Scissor grinder at Different Life Stages
Egg Scissor grinder eggs are laid in slits in tree branches. Finding them requires careful examination of small branches and twigs, preferably using a magnifying glass or binoculars.
Nymph Scissor grinder nymphs reside underground and are only seen when they emerge to molt into adults. They can be found by looking for small holes or mounds of dirt around the base of trees. Digging gently near tree roots may also reveal them.
After molting, scissor grinder can be seen on tree trunks or other vertical surfaces as they harden their exoskeleton. Look for them in the early morning when they are less likely to fly away.
Adult Adult scissor grinder can be located by their loud mating calls, typically from trees. Searching for them involves following the sound and scanning trees for adults on branches or trunks.
Are Scissor grinder harmful?
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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