Spring has brought an exciting natural event: the emergence of Brood XIV cicadas in the eastern United States, marking their first appearance since 2008. These periodical cicadas surface every 17 years, with their buzz and click already resonating in several neighborhoods. According to Gene Kritsky, a professor at Mount St. Joseph University, sightings have surged recently, particularly in western North Carolina, southern Kentucky, and Tennessee. As of May 9, cicadas have been reported in multiple areas, including around 739 sightings in Asheville, NC, and 90 in Knoxville, TN.
Expecting cicadas in 2025 are states like Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Kentucky and Tennessee are projected to experience the highest numbers. Cicada emergence occurs gradually, taking about two weeks for the bulk to surface, and they remain visible for roughly six weeks. Typically, they crawl up trees or other upright surfaces to anchor themselves.
While cicadas do not pose significant threats to gardens since they primarily consume liquids, the act of females laying eggs can cause some branch damage, which may improve overall tree health by acting as natural pruning. Additionally, cicadas can attract oak leaf itch mites, which can irritate the skin, prompting advice to avoid sitting under oak trees during the summer months following their emergence.
For those interested in tracking cicada sightings, the Cicada Safari app offers valuable data and interactive activities. This unique phenomenon provides a remarkable opportunity for parents to introduce their children to nature, creating lasting memories in the process.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
