Cicadas are starting to come out in the Southern and Midwestern regions of the United States. A ‘double brood,’ a rare event not seen in centuries, will bring billions of the noisy insects, with both the 13-year and 17-year cicadas appearing at the same time. Dennis Higgins, a cicada enthusiast, shared his excitement about the emergence while enjoying the sights and sounds of the insects in Western Springs, Illinois with his grandson, Reese.
The invasion of cicadas has officially begun! Brood XIX, also known as the Great Southern Brood, can be found along the east coast from Maryland to Georgia and in the Midwest from Iowa to Oklahoma. Parts of Illinois will be a prime location to witness the convergence of the two broods of periodical cicadas that have been living underground for years. They will come out to mate briefly before perishing.
Higgins expressed his enthusiasm for this natural phenomenon, emphasizing that it is a unique experience that only occurs once every 17 years. He hopes to be around for the next emergence as well. The buzzing and chirping of cicadas may be disruptive to some, but it is all part of the cycle of life in the natural world.
As the cicadas make their presence known across the country, people are encouraged to embrace this event and appreciate the beauty of nature. While the noise may be overwhelming at times, it is important to remember that these insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their emergence signifies a time of renewal and growth, as they contribute to the pollination process and provide a food source for other creatures.
For those interested in witnessing the cicada invasion firsthand, there are plenty of opportunities to observe these fascinating insects in action. Whether you are in the Southern or Midwestern states, keep an eye out for these noisy neighbors as they make their way above ground after years of dormancy. Take a moment to appreciate the unique sounds and sights of the cicadas and marvel at the wonders of the natural world.