You’ll not only see these prehistoric creatures in your neighborhoods, but you’ll hear them as well. Let’s discuss what you can expect from this fascinating species of insect, that emerge from the earth only every 17 years. First let me assure you of this: they are neither interested in interrupting your barbecues nor trying to create a new fashion statement by clinging to your hair. And even if they stray into your home through an open door or window, they are definitely not interested in taking up permanent residence.
Now for the stuff that I think is so interesting about these cicadas: they display two different life cycles. During the nymph stage, they live underground, use their very strong legs for digging and feed on root juices. The emerging mature cicadas shed their hard exoskeletons to become the winged imagoes that ultimately become airborne.
There are 170 species in North America and currently over 2,500 different types around the world. The life cycle of the genus Magicicada can range from 13 years to a whopping 17 years depending upon the species.
Female cicadas can lay up to 100 eggs. Some predators of cicadas are birds and squirrels. Male cicadas’ vibrato exceeds 120 dB, which is among the loudest of all species of insect. They have the ability to cause hearing loss, while others can create sounds so high pitched, they are inaudible to the human ear.
They don’t bite or sting, but might misidentify your arm or leg as a branch or tree. Some of the trees in which cicadas do their fine-dining are oak, cypress, willow, ash, and maple. For some, cicadas have become a delicacy, but I prefer to admire their short visit by looking at them if they land on a tree or on a window. If you want to try to see some in your neighborhood just cut the grass and the mower’s loud sounds will attract both males and females to your location. If you happen to be an individual who doesn’t like insects clinging to you, just a slight swing of the arm would be sufficient. Happy entomology observing…And may a cicada land on you!! If you happen to like cicadas that is…
