Cicadas are fascinating creatures that emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years. They're often called "periodical cicadas" because of their long life cycles. While they can be found in many parts of the United States, their emergence in New York is a particularly noteworthy event.
When Do Cicadas Come Out in New York?
The timing of cicada emergences in New York can vary slightly depending on the specific brood and local conditions. However, they typically emerge in late May or early June. The exact date can be predicted based on the last emergence of that particular brood.
Broods of Cicadas in New York
There are several broods of cicadas that can be found in New York. Some of the most common broods include:
- Brood IV: This brood emerged in 2024 and is expected to emerge again in 2041.
- Brood X: This brood emerged in 2021 and is expected to emerge again in 2038.
- Brood IX: This brood emerged in 2016 and is expected to emerge again in 2033.
What to Expect During a Cicada Emergence
Cicada emergences can be a noisy and somewhat overwhelming experience. Here's what you can expect:
- Nymphs Emerging from the Ground: The cicada nymphs will emerge from the ground and crawl up trees or other structures.
- Shedding Their Exoskeletons: Once the nymphs have reached a safe location, they will shed their exoskeletons and emerge as adults.
- Loud Chorus of Cicadas: Adult cicadas are known for their loud, buzzing calls. This chorus can be quite deafening in some areas.
- Large Numbers of Cicadas: Cicada emergences can result in massive numbers of cicadas. It's not uncommon to see thousands of cicadas in a single tree.
Cicada Facts
Here are a few interesting facts about cicadas:
- Long Life Cycles: Cicadas have the longest life cycles of any insect. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots.
- Distinct Appearance: Cicadas are large, brown insects with black eyes and transparent wings. They have a distinctive, buzzing sound.
- Diet: Adult cicadas feed on tree sap.
- Beneficial to Trees: While cicadas can be a nuisance, they are actually beneficial to trees. They help to aerate the soil and promote tree growth.
How to Prepare for a Cicada Emergence
If you live in New York and are expecting a cicada emergence, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Protect Your Trees: If you have young trees, you may want to cover them with netting to protect them from damage.
- Clean Up Debris: Cicadas can leave behind a lot of debris, including exoskeletons and dead bodies. It's important to clean up this debris to prevent mold and other problems.
- Enjoy the Show: Cicada emergences are a rare and fascinating event. If you can, take some time to enjoy the show!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Protect My Plants from Cicadas?
- Cover your plants with netting or row covers to prevent cicadas from laying eggs on them.
- Spray your plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter cicadas.
- Remove any dead or dying plants to prevent cicadas from laying eggs on them.
How to Get Rid of Cicadas in Your Yard?
- There is no effective way to get rid of cicadas once they have emerged.
- The best way to prevent cicadas from causing damage is to take steps to protect your plants before they emerge.
How to Attract Cicadas to Your Yard?
- Plant trees and shrubs that are known to attract cicadas, such as oaks, maples, and hickories.
- Avoid using pesticides that could harm cicadas.
How to Make Cicada Shells?
- Collect cicada shells after they have emerged from their exoskeletons.
- Wash the shells gently with soap and water.
- Allow the shells to dry completely.
- You can display the shells in a jar or frame them.
How to Cook Cicadas?
- Cicadas are edible and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
- They can be boiled, fried, or roasted.
- Cicadas have a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture.