How long will the cicadas be in illinois?

By HotBotUpdated: September 17, 2024

Answer

An Overview of Cicada Life Cycles

Cicadas are fascinating insects known for their distinct life cycles and loud mating calls. In Illinois, cicadas appear in different broods with varying emergence periods. Generally, cicadas are categorized into two types based on their life cycles: annual cicadas and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas emerge every year, while periodical cicadas have longer life cycles, emerging every 13 or 17 years.

Annual Cicadas

Annual cicadas, also known as "dog-day cicadas," typically emerge every year during the late summer months. These cicadas have a shorter life cycle, ranging from 2 to 5 years, but because their broods overlap, they are seen annually. In Illinois, you can expect to see annual cicadas from late July through September. Their presence is marked by their distinctive buzzing sound, which is often associated with the hot, late summer days.

Periodical Cicadas

Periodical cicadas are renowned for their synchronized emergence in massive numbers. They are divided into 13-year and 17-year broods. Illinois is home to both types of periodical cicadas, each appearing in different regions and years.

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Brood XIII (17-Year Cicadas)

Brood XIII is one of the most famous and largest broods of 17-year cicadas. It last emerged in Illinois in 2007 and is expected to reappear in 2024. This brood covers a significant portion of northern Illinois, including the Chicago metropolitan area. During their emergence year, they can be seen from late May to early July. The sheer number of cicadas in this brood can be overwhelming, as millions of them rise from the ground and blanket the trees.

Brood XIX (13-Year Cicadas)

Brood XIX is a 13-year brood that last emerged in 2011 and is set to reappear in 2024. This brood is found primarily in southern Illinois. Similar to Brood XIII, the emergence period for Brood XIX usually spans from late May to early July. The synchronized emergence of this brood can also lead to a dramatic increase in cicada populations in the affected areas.

Factors Influencing Cicada Emergence

Several factors influence the emergence of cicadas, including soil temperature, seasonal weather patterns, and environmental conditions. Periodical cicadas typically emerge when the soil temperature at a depth of 8 inches reaches approximately 64 degrees Fahrenheit. This usually coincides with late spring to early summer in Illinois.

Climate change and urbanization can also affect cicada emergence patterns. Warmer temperatures may lead to earlier emergences, while changes in land use can impact cicada habitats. In some cases, cicadas may emerge off-cycle, leading to what is known as a "straggler" emergence. These stragglers can appear one or more years before or after the main brood emergence.

The Impact of Cicadas on the Environment

Cicadas play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their emergence provides a significant food source for various predators, including birds, mammals, and other insects. The large numbers of cicadas during periodical emergences can lead to a temporary abundance of food, benefiting the local wildlife.

Cicadas also contribute to the health of trees and soil. When cicada nymphs emerge, they create small holes in the ground, which can help aerate the soil. Additionally, the decaying bodies of cicadas provide essential nutrients to the soil, promoting plant growth. Cicada egg-laying can cause some damage to young trees, but established trees generally recover without long-term harm.

Human Interaction with Cicadas

While cicadas are harmless to humans, their large numbers and loud mating calls can be a nuisance. During peak emergence periods, the noise created by male cicadas can reach up to 100 decibels, comparable to the sound of a lawnmower. This can be particularly bothersome in residential areas where cicadas emerge in large numbers.

However, cicadas also offer unique opportunities for scientific study and public engagement. Their predictable emergence patterns allow researchers to study various aspects of their biology, behavior, and ecology. Public interest in cicadas often leads to educational programs and citizen science projects, fostering a greater appreciation for these remarkable insects.

Preparing for Cicada Emergence

For those living in areas expecting a significant cicada emergence, there are a few steps that can be taken to prepare. Protecting young trees by covering them with netting can help prevent cicada egg-laying damage. Minimizing outdoor activities during peak emergence times can reduce exposure to the noise and large numbers of cicadas.

Embracing the cicada emergence as a natural phenomenon can also enhance the experience. Observing cicadas, listening to their calls, and learning about their life cycles can provide a greater understanding of the natural world. For many, the emergence of periodical cicadas is a once-in-a-lifetime event, offering a unique chance to witness one of nature's most extraordinary spectacles.

As we delve into the intricate details of cicada life cycles and their impact on the environment, it becomes evident that these insects are more than just a seasonal occurrence. They are a testament to the complexity and interconnectedness of our ecosystem, inviting us to pause and consider the myriad ways in which even the smallest creatures contribute to the world around us.