A great cicada revival is expected to hit the U.S. this spring and summer, with two cicada broods making a simultaneous comeback for the first time in 221 years, bringing trillions of insects emerging across 17 states. Despite the large numbers of cicadas predicted to appear, they are relatively harmless to humans, plants, and crops. They do not bite or sting and are safe for pets to ingest when in their infancy. Americans are likely to spot these black-bodied insects with wingspans of about 3 inches in their yards, as they are known for producing a chorus of mating calls that can exceed 100 decibels. Cicadas only live for about six weeks and are mostly inactive at night. They are also known for shedding their exoskeletons, leaving molted shells on the ground.
The biggest concern with cicadas is their activity in trees, as they tend to feed on and lay eggs in new trees and shrubs. Homeowners can discourage cicadas from laying eggs in younger trees by covering them with mesh netting or cheese cloth throughout the spring and summer. Larger, existing trees may benefit from tree wraps or guards to prevent them from climbing up and infesting the branches. Another method of decreasing cicada numbers is to call in predators like birds to keep cicada numbers down. Despite popular belief, cicadas are not considered pests, as they do not cause mass damage to plants and crops in their feeding habits. While they may cause minor damage to young trees where they lay their eggs, most trees recover quickly. Generally, cicadas are not dangerous or destructive insects.
The reason for the cicada resurgence this year is that many broods only come out to mate after long periods of hibernation. In 2024, two different broods of cicadas will emerge at the same time, one appearing every 17 years in Illinois and the other appearing every 13 years elsewhere in the Midwest and Southeast. The 13-year cicada, known as Brood 19, has one of the largest geographical emergences spanning 14 states, while the 17-year cicada, also known as Brood 13, will emerge in five Midwestern states. Illinois and Indiana will experience emergences from both broods. Cicadas from both broods are likely to appear in 17 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Michigan, and Virginia.
Overall, the great cicada emergence this spring and summer is expected to be a fascinating event for nature enthusiasts. While the insects may be loud and prevalent in some areas, they are ultimately harmless and play an important role in the ecosystem. It is important for homeowners to take necessary precautions to protect young trees from cicada damage, but generally, the insects are not considered pests. With the unique occurrence of two cicada broods emerging simultaneously after 221 years, this natural phenomenon provides a rare opportunity to observe and appreciate the wonders of the insect world.
