The dog-day cicada, scientifically known as Neotibicen canicularis, is a species of annual cicada. It is commonly called the dog-day cicada, dog-day harvestfly, or heatbug. Seen frequently on the hottest days of the summer, the dog-day cicada is a harmless insect and serves as a food source for animals such as raccoons, wasps, and other insects. Dog-day cicadas are known for their distinctive buzzing, which is one of the most iconic sounds of late summer in many parts of North America.