This morning Wally brought in our first periodical cicada of the year. Periodical cicadas are distinguished by bright red eyes and black bodies. All other cicadas are designated as annual cicadas. Periodical cicada nymphs take 13 years (4 species) or 17 years (3 species) to mature.
Discrete geographical populations (broods) of periodical cicadas emerge as adults, sometimes in the millions. Annual cicadas take up to five years to mature, but because generations overlap we see them every year.
Unlike the recent rapture event two weeks ago, this event will be much more interesting. At least SOMETHING is happening. The cicadas are harmless, aside from their massive chorusing, which has be likened to the sound of a jackhammer during massive emergences. The females may damage young branches when they insert their ovipositors into young branches during egglaying.
[…] recently became aware of a beautifully filmed and presented eight minute video regarding the periodical cicada (Magicicada septendecim) life cycle. “Return of the Cicadas” is as artistic as it is […]