Male cicadas have sound boxes in their abdomens. They make their sound by expanding and contracting a membrane called a tymbal. They use their sound to attract females, which make clicking noises when they are ready to mate. The hotter the day, the louder the male cicadas make their sounds.

Why do cicadas scream?

Male cicadas attract mates by letting out chirps, rattles, and high-pitched screams from the tops of trees. Females can hear the songs from up to a mile away—as can anyone else with functioning ears.

What is the noise called that cicadas make?

They use their wings to make crackling or popping noises known as crepitation.