Cicadas Are Coming - Be Prepared

5/2/2024 (Permalink)

2 cicadas enjoying their time above ground.

The Brood X Cicadas will be making an appearance this year for the first time in 17 years. Cicadas are the loudest insect in the United States, so be ready for the loud noise.

There are ways to get prepared for the arrival of our loud friends:

*Make sure the screens on your doors and windows are secure and have no holes especially if you plan to leave them open during the warm weather.

*Cicadas fly but with no direction so they may easily fly into your path.  Be prepared with an umbrella or hat.  If you have long hair, consider wearing it back.

*Cicadas are less active in the early morning and evenings.  So consider doing yard work at these times.

*Watch your pets as they like to eat cicadas which can cause digestive problems.

*Change your car's windshield wipers as they may be needed when cicadas fly into your windshield.

*Protect young trees with mesh netting.

The cicada season should last no longer than 4 to 6 weeks.  Remember that Cicadas do not bite or sting, they are harmless.  Cicadas spend 99% of their lives underground, so do not let the 1% that they are above ground "bug" you too much.