This spring heralds the emergence of one of North America’s most intriguing insect species: the cicadas. After nearly 17 years underground, Brood XIV is set to appear, marking its first emergence in New England since 2008. These insects, known for their distinctive appearance with stocky bodies, short antennae, large red eyes, and transparent wings marked with noticeable veins, are anticipated to make their presence felt as soil temperatures reach 64 degrees, typically in the latter half of May.
Cicadas are divided into annual and periodical categories, with the latter emerging every 13 or 17 years. While annual cicadas are found worldwide, periodical cicadas are exclusive to the eastern United States. This year, they are expected to surface in several states, including Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, as well as nine southern counties in Indiana.
Despite the excitement surrounding their appearance, Connecticut will not witness these insects this year. The state’s periodical brood, Brood II, is not due until 2030, last having emerged in 2013. This absence is attributed to either historical lack of presence or extinction due to habitat changes, such as the removal of host trees. Cicadas rely on mature trees for timing their emergence, linking with the roots to monitor growth cycles accurately.
As cicadas emerge, they engage in a life cycle that begins with mating and egg-laying in tree branches. After hatching, the juveniles drop to the ground, burrowing in to feed on grass roots and continue the cycle. Although they may appear daunting due to their large numbers and loud buzzing, they are harmless, unable to bite or sting, and cause only minor twig damage to trees. Their distinct sound, produced by a unique abdominal structure known as a tymbal, can reach over 90 decibels when synchronized en masse.
The emergence of these insects is often first noted audibly rather than visually, with many people recognizing the familiar sound in their yards. While some may consider this noise a nuisance, the cicadas pose no real threat to the environment or human activities.