When Will Chicago Be Invaded by Those Buzzing Bastards?
The Cicada Countdown
So, you're wondering when those noisy little buggers, the cicadas, are planning their Chicago takeover? Well, buckle up, because this is going to be a wild ride.
Let's get one thing straight: cicadas are not aliens. They're just really, really patient insects. They spend most of their lives underground, sucking on tree roots and dreaming of the day they can emerge and throw the world's worst concert.
The Great Cicada Emergence
Now, you might be wondering, "Why do they all come out at once?" Well, it's a classic case of "safety in numbers." By overwhelming predators with sheer volume, they increase their chances of survival. It's like a buggy version of a flash mob, but instead of dancing, they're just being really, really loud.
The exact timing of the cicada invasion depends on a few factors:
- Soil Temperature: These guys are cold-blooded, so they need the soil to warm up to a cozy 64 degrees Fahrenheit before they start popping out.
- Brood Number: There are different broods of cicadas that emerge on different cycles. Some come out every 13 years, while others take a leisurely 17-year nap underground.
Pro Tip: If you're planning a picnic in the Chicago area during late May or early June, be prepared for a potential cacophony of cicada noise. Earplugs might be a good investment.
Cicada FAQs
How to survive a cicada invasion?
- Embrace the noise. It's nature's way of saying, "Hey, we're here!"
- Protect your plants. Cicada females lay eggs in tree branches, which can cause damage.
- Enjoy the show. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience (or at least a once-in-13-or-17-year experience).
How to avoid getting hit by a falling cicada?
- Wear a helmet. Just kidding. It's highly unlikely, but you never know.
How to cook a cicada?
- We don't recommend it. They're probably not very tasty.
How to attract cicadas to your yard?
- Plant some trees. Cicadas love trees.
How to repel cicadas?
- There's no foolproof method, but you can try using netting to protect your plants.