The chorus cicada, Amphipsalta zelandica, is the most common
species of cicada in New Zealand where it is endemic and found
in most areas. They typically live in forests and areas with
open bush, where their left-over nymph skins can be seen on tree
trunks and branches during the summer months. The males produce
their cicada sound in unison, which can reach deafening
proportions at the height of their population around February.
Groups of cicada can suddenly transition from the typical cicada
sound to synchronised clicks, using their wings to clap against
the surface they are sitting on. Chorus cicada grow to over 2 cm
of body length and a wing span of over 6 cm. Their bodies are
irregularly striped in green and black.