This summer is shaping up to be quite the spectacle as millions of cicadas make their way to the surface, coinciding with an already eventful 2020, a year marked by a global pandemic and unexpected hornet sightings. These flying insects, known for their loud and persistent mating calls, will emerge from the ground during their designated mating cycle.
Every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species, cicadas can emerge in staggering numbers—up to 1.5 million per acre. This year, the emergence will occur primarily in southwestern Virginia, parts of North Carolina, and West Virginia. The distinctive sound of male cicadas is unmistakable as they sing to attract females.
Cicada Activity Timeline
According to experts from Virginia Tech and Virginia State University, cicada activity typically begins in May, peaks in early June, and tends to taper off by July. If you encounter them, there’s no need for concern; cicadas are neither poisonous nor do they sting. “After spending years underground, mature nymphs build mud turrets known as cicada huts before emerging from the soil. They then climb onto nearby plants or any vertical surface to shed their nymph exoskeletons and transform into winged adults,” the experts explain. The synchronized emergence of these insects usually occurs over a few nights.
Community Impact
Eric Strong, a Virginia Cooperative Extension entomologist at Virginia Tech, notes that communities experiencing a surge of cicadas may face significant noise. “While the sound can be bothersome, it’s a rare and remarkable event,” he shares. This year, residents in the aforementioned areas can expect the return of brood IX cicadas, which last emerged in 2003. The cyclical nature of cicada emergence is believed to be an evolutionary strategy to evade predators, utilizing prime numbers like 13 or 17 for their emergence cycles.
“This insect is truly captivating; if you don’t have fruit trees or grapevines to protect, take the opportunity to appreciate this phenomenon while it lasts,” remarks James Carter, a professor and extension specialist in entomology.
Further Reading
For those interested in similar topics, check out this blog post for more insights. If you’re seeking more information on self insemination techniques and resources, visit this authority site for detailed guidance. Additionally, WebMD provides an excellent overview of various treatments related to pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, this summer marks the anticipated emergence of millions of cicadas, particularly in parts of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia. Their loud mating calls will be a reminder of nature’s wonder, while the event itself offers a unique opportunity to witness a fascinating life cycle.