Black Cicada vs Mountain Bumblebee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Black Cicada | Mountain Bumblebee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Maoricicada nigra | Bombus monticola |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Cicadidae | Apidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island) | Scandinavia, Scotland, Iceland, alpine regions of Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Black Cicada
A striking all-black alpine cicada endemic to the mountains of the South Island of New Zealand. Its dark colouration helps it absorb heat in cool alpine environments. It produces a distinctive high-pitched buzzing call.
Did You Know?
This cicada's black body acts as a solar panel, allowing it to warm up quickly in the cold alpine air to reach the body temperature needed for flight.
Mountain Bumblebee
A colorful bumblebee with bright red-orange tail, yellow thorax bands, and a black midriff. It is found at high altitudes and latitudes where it is an important pollinator. Queens are among the earliest bees to emerge.
Did You Know?
This bumblebee can forage in driving rain and near-gale winds that keep other pollinating insects grounded.