Have you heard the buzz?
Missouri residents will witness a natural phenomenon this year that hasn’t occurred in 221 years: the simultaneous emergence of two separate periodical cicada broods.
This rare occurrence will not only bring a cacophony of buzzing to our yards but also marks a significant event in the natural history of our region.
This spring, the 13-year cicadas, known as Brood XIX, will emerge in most areas of Missouri.
Concurrently, the 17-year cicadas, called Brood XIII, will make their presence known in the Midwest and parts of Missouri as well.
The overlap of these two broods has been dubbed “cicada-geddon” by experts, and it promises to be a unique experience for all of us.
The last time such a dual emergence occurred was in 1803, and it won’t happen again until 2245.
This year’s event is particularly notable because of the sheer numbers of cicadas that will emerge.
Experts estimate that there could be as many as 1.5 million cicadas per acre, bringing the total population into the trillions.
So, what does this mean for us Missouri residents?
First and foremost, be prepared for a lot of noise.
Cicadas are known for their loud mating calls, which can reach up to 100 decibels – equivalent to a motorcycle or a lawnmower. This might be a nuisance for some, but for others, it’s a fascinating aspect of nature’s symphony.
The good news is that cicadas are harmless to humans.
They don’t bite or sting, and they’re not known to carry diseases.
However, their presence can cause some issues for our local flora.
Cicadas lay their eggs in small tree branches, which can harm the tree.
To protect your young trees, cover them in mesh or netting to keep the insects out.
As the cicadas emerge, they will provide a feast for local wildlife, such as birds, squirrels, fish, and even household pets.
While this can be entertaining to watch, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your pets to make sure they don’t overeat.
For those who are interested in learning more about these fascinating insects, this event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Take some time to observe the cicadas, listen to their calls, and appreciate the intricate life cycle that has brought them to our yards.
I've heard that we don’t need to worry, the noise will be over in about 5 weeks or so.
God bless and have a great day!
Nana
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