The buzzing sound of cicadas fills the air as Brood XIV emerges once again after 17 years, creating a spectacular natural event in parts of the Eastern U.S. like Georgia, southern Ohio, Kentucky, Cape Cod in Massachusetts, and Long Island, New York.
When the soil warms up to 64 degrees Fahrenheit, the cicada nymphs make their way to the surface, having spent a long development period underground.
Emerging after a warm spring rain, the cicadas can be heard crunching through the grass as they climb up trees, plants, and any vertical surface in their path. Their sheer numbers create a forceful presence.
After molting, the cicadas emerge with soft, pale yellow bodies, large red eyes, and gossamer wings. Within hours, they harden and darken before taking flight to the treetops.
The males create a loud buzzing sound as they seek out mates, a cacophony that can leave ears ringing.
Cicadas play a vital role in the ecosystem, providing a source of protein for various wildlife and even humans, surviving through their sheer numbers.
After mating, female cicadas lay eggs in tree branches before passing away. The cycle continues as the tiny nymphs hatch, fall to the ground, and burrow below.
The magic of spring unfolds as the cicadas emerge, adding to the beauty of blooming flowers and vibrant greenery. Their presence is a reminder of the power and wonder of nature.
