Cicadas: The Windy City's Unexpected Rock Stars?
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| Will There Be A Lot Of Cicadas In Chicago |
Are You Ready for a Summer Serenade? (Or a Noise Complaint?)
So, you’re wondering if Chicago is about to become a chorus of buzzing, clicking insects? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the world of cicadas, a topic that's as fascinating as it is... noisy.
First things first: Cicadas are not locusts. Let's clear that up right away. Cicadas are these big, bug-eyed creatures that spend most of their lives underground, sucking on tree roots. Then, every 13 or 17 years (depending on the brood), they emerge in MASS numbers to party like it’s 1999... or 1986, or whenever their last emergence was.
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Chicago: Cicada Capital or Cicada Calm?
Now, the burning question: will Chicago be a cicada hotspot this year? The short answer is: probably not. While there are cicada broods that do emerge in the Midwest, the specific broods that cause those epic, biblical-level infestations tend to be concentrated in other parts of the country.
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That said, you might still encounter a few cicadas. They're opportunists, those little buggers. If the conditions are right – warm, moist soil – they might decide to throw a mini-concert in your backyard. It’s like winning the lottery, but with bugs.
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
How to Survive a Cicada Invasion (Just in Case)
If you do find yourself in the midst of a cicada swarm, don't panic. Here are a few tips:
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- Embrace the noise: Cicadas are like nature's white noise machine. Put on some earplugs if it's really bad, but try to appreciate the sheer audacity of it all.
- Protect your plants: Cicadas love to lay eggs in tree branches. If you have young trees, you might want to cover them up.
- Enjoy the show: Cicadas are actually pretty cool creatures. Take some time to observe them. Just don’t get too close.
How To... Cicada Edition
- How to tell a cicada from a locust: Cicadas have large, bulging eyes and a distinctive shell. Locusts are typically greener and have longer antennae.
- How to protect your car: Cicada carcasses can make your car look like it's been in a bug splat war. A car cover is your best bet.
- How to cook cicadas (if you're feeling adventurous): Some cultures consider cicadas a delicacy. If you're brave enough, you can find recipes online.
- How to appreciate the cicada life cycle: These creatures spend most of their lives underground, only to emerge for a brief, noisy party. It's a pretty wild ride.
- How to relax when the cicadas are singing: Put on some headphones, drown out the noise with your favorite tunes, and enjoy the peace and quiet in your own head.
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