Cicadas in Illinois: Here Today, Gone By Next Week (Probably)
Ah, Illinois. Land of Lincoln, deep dish pizza, and...cicadas! But not just any cicadas, folks, we're talking about a brood bonanza of epic proportions this year. Brood XIX and Brood XIII are having a long-awaited reunion, emerging from their underground slumber like a rave party that went way too long.
But the question on everyone's mind (besides "how much pizza can I eat before the cicada noise drives me insane?") is: how long will these buzzing buddies be gracing us with their presence?
How Long Will Cicadas Be In Illinois |
Don't Bug Out, But Don't Get Too Cozy Either
The good news (or bad news, depending on your tolerance for creepy crawlies) is that these cicadas have a lifespan of about four glorious weeks above ground. That means by mid-June, things should be calming down on the cicada front.
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
So, you can ditch the earplugs (or stock up, no judgment here) because this noisy invasion is temporary.
A Brief History Lesson (Because Why Not?)
These particular cicadas are punctual party animals. They follow a 13-year or 17-year cycle, emerging in synchronized hordes to overwhelm predators and ensure successful mating. It's like the insect version of Burning Man, but with less fire and more...dirt naps.
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
This year's double emergence is a rare event, kind of like a royal wedding and a meteor shower happening on the same day. So, enjoy the show (or hide under your bed, we won't tell).
FAQ: Cicada Survival Guide (For Humans)
How to deal with the noise? Noise-cancelling headphones are your friend. Alternatively, crank up your favorite tunes and drown out the cicada serenade.
Tip: Don’t skip — flow matters.
How to avoid getting bitten? Relax, they're more interested in finding love than a midnight snack. Cicadas don't bite humans.
How to protect my plants? While cicadas can damage young trees, they usually don't cause lasting harm.
Tip: Look for examples to make points easier to grasp.
How to get rid of cicadas? Insecticides aren't recommended and won't make much of a dent in the massive brood. Embrace the weirdness and ride it out!
How to enjoy the cicadas? Believe it or not, cicadas are a vital part of the ecosystem. They aerate the soil and provide a food source for birds and other animals. So, channel your inner David Attenborough and appreciate the wonder of nature (from a safe distance, of course).