The Teeny Tiny Cicada!

  While most cicadas that I encounter here on the Bayou are quite large, I came across one yesterday morning that was the tiniest thing that I have ever seen!  It is adorable! I oohed and ahhed over the little guy for a bit and tried my best to gather interest from anyone who would listen.  No one was even remotely amused.  It seems that everyone is far too busy to marvel over a bug.  Not me.  I marveled.

  After staring at the little squirt for a bit, I left it where it was and headed down to cut a new path in the woods.  While I worked, I pondered the cicada and its size.  When I finally finished, I checked on my new-found friend.  The critter was still hanging on the same post near the Frog Pond.  So far, the little thing was safe!  

I hung a shed of a cicada that we normally find on the Bayou next to the shed of the newcomer for size comparison.

  Now I am wondering if this is a different species of cicada than is usually found here or am I just not seeing these little guys because of their diminutive size.  Perhaps a new breed is making the Bayou home! That would be exciting!  I did a bit of research and the closest thing I can find is a tiny cicada called Beameria venosa.  Being under an inch in length, this cicada is the smallest in North America!  And just think....I found one!  Maybe.  Since I am not an entomologist, I am just guessing at the identity.  The size sure fits the description, though!  But, rest assured, I am asking for help with the identity of my little cicada. My cousin is an endless source of knowledge so I sent the picture to him. Hopefully, he will be able to shed a little light on my bug!  I will let you know!  

****I love prompt answers!   My cousin seems to think that this is the cicada that I mentioned earlier.  I feel quite smug with myself for researching and possibly making a correct identity!  If you have the time, hop on over to visit his blog.  I am sure you will not be disappointed.  It is a good read and Fred is an amazing photographer!  
http://www.fragmentsfromfloyd.com/