Cicadas in Texas: A Symphony of Summer Noise
Are Those Cicadas I Hear?
You’re sitting on your porch, sipping sweet tea, and suddenly, a cacophony of high-pitched whining fills the air. You look around, half-expecting a swarm of angry wasps. But nope, it’s just a bunch of nature’s tiny drummers – cicadas. And yes, they do love Texas!
The Texas Cicada Scene
Texas is home to a variety of cicadas, but the most common ones are the dog-day cicadas. These guys are the ones you’re most likely to hear and see. They’re like the rock stars of the insect world, always putting on a show.
Unlike their periodical cousins who emerge in massive numbers every 13 or 17 years, dog-day cicadas are more chill. They show up every year, but in smaller, less overwhelming groups. So, no need to panic about a sudden cicadapocalypse in your backyard.
Cicada Sounds: A Love-Hate Relationship
Let’s talk about that noise. Some people find the cicada chorus to be a soothing soundtrack to summer. Others? Well, let’s just say they’re not fans. It’s like having a thousand tiny lawnmowers in your trees.
But here’s the thing: those sounds aren’t just random noise. They’re actually mating calls! So, next time you’re cringing at the racket, remember, it’s all in the name of love.
Cicadas: More Than Just Noise
Cicadas are actually pretty cool creatures. They spend most of their lives underground, sucking on plant roots. Talk about patience! When they finally emerge, they shed their exoskeleton and undergo an incredible transformation.
And don’t forget about their role in the ecosystem. Cicadas are a food source for birds, squirrels, and other animals. So, while they might be annoying at times, they’re an important part of the natural world.
How to Deal with Cicadas
- Embrace the noise: Put on some headphones and enjoy your summer.
- Protect your plants: Cicadas can sometimes damage young trees. Cover delicate plants with netting.
- Appreciate their beauty: Take a moment to admire these fascinating creatures.
- Enjoy the show: Cicadas are a unique part of the Texas experience.
- Relax and unwind: Summer is a time to relax. Let the cicadas provide the soundtrack.
So, the next time you hear that familiar summer symphony, remember: it’s just a bunch of bugs trying to find love. And hey, isn’t that what summer is all about?
How to identify a cicada? Look for a large, green insect with red eyes and a distinctive shell.How to protect my plants from cicadas? Cover young trees and shrubs with netting.How long do cicadas live? Most cicadas live for 2 to 5 years.How to attract cicadas to my yard? Plant trees and shrubs that cicadas like, such as oaks and maples.How to get rid of cicadas? There's not much you can do to get rid of cicadas, but you can reduce their numbers by removing potential breeding sites.