The Cicadas of Provence: The Sound of Summer 

If you visit Provence in the south of France during the summer, you will hear a very specific sound. It is a loud, rhythmic « song » that fills the air. This is the song of the cicada. The cicadas arrive in Provence from June of September.

Why do they sing?

Only the male cicadas sing. They don’t use their throats to make noise; instead, they have a special part on their abdomen called a tymbal. They vibrate this membrane very fast to create their famous sound. Their goal is simple: they want to attract a female.

A life under the sun

Cicadas love the heat. You will usually only hear them when the temperature rises above 25°C. When the sun goes down or the weather gets cold, they stop singing immediately.

From the earth to the trees

Did you know that cicadas spend most of their lives underground?

• They live as larvae under the soil for several years.

• In the summer, they climb up trees, shed their old skin, and become adults.

• The adult cicada only lives for a few weeks to sing, mate, and enjoy the sun.

A symbol of Provence

In Provence, the cicada is a symbol of luck and joy. You can find them everywhere:

• On colorful ceramics for your house.

• On printed fabrics and tablecloths.

• In the stories of famous writers like Jean de La Fontaine.

Next time you are in the South of France, take a moment to listen. That loud buzzing isn’t just noise—it is the heartbeat of the Provençal summer!

Why do they sing?

Only the male cicadas sing. They don’t use their throats to make noise; instead, they have a special part on their abdomen called a tymbal. They vibrate this membrane very fast to create their famous sound. Their goal is simple: they want to attract a female.

A life under the sun

Cicadas love the heat. You will usually only hear them when the temperature rises above 25°C. When the sun goes down or the weather gets cold, they stop singing immediately.

From the earth to the trees

Did you know that cicadas spend most of their lives underground?

• They live as larvae under the soil for several years.

• In the summer, they climb up trees, shed their old skin, and become adults.

• The adult cicada only lives for a few weeks to sing, mate, and enjoy the sun.

A symbol of Provence

In Provence, the cicada is a symbol of luck and joy. You can find them everywhere:

• On colorful ceramics for your house.

• On printed fabrics and tablecloths.

• In the stories of famous writers like Jean de La Fontaine.