Cicadas Emerge Early in Chicago Area After 17 Years Underground

Picture of Cicadas Emerge Early in Chicago Area After 17 Years Underground

Cicadas Emerge Early in Chicago Area After 17 Years Underground

Cicadas emerge early in Chicago after 17 years underground, surprising residents and bringing a unique natural phenomenon to the area.

After spending 17 years underground, periodical cicadas have begun to emerge earlier than expected in the Chicago area. The large insects have been spotted in various parts of the city and its suburbs, marking a rare double emergence that coincides with the arrival of another brood of cicadas last seen 13 years ago.

Early Emergence Attributed to Warmer Weather

Stephanie Adams, the plant health care leader at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, noted that the slightly early appearance of the cicadas is due to warmer weather affecting soil temperature. The arboretum staff first noticed the insects on Monday, and by Friday, certain areas were teeming with them. The timing of the emergence can be influenced by even the slightest variances in soil temperature, with cicadas in particularly sunny areas near known host trees likely to emerge earlier.

Nature enthusiasts from as far as Ontario, Canada, have traveled to Illinois to witness the cicada emergence firsthand. Luke Van Schaik and Yvonne Rae drove six hours with their children to see the insects and enjoy some of Chicago’s sights and cuisine. Meanwhile, Beverly resident Keith Lewis expressed his excitement and nostalgia, as the last time the cicadas emerged, his son was only 4 years old, and now he is 21.

While cicadas are harmless to humans and are even edible, females can damage young trees when laying eggs. As a result, residents in the Chicago area have been taking precautions, such as wrapping their young trees in protective netting.

Cicadas' Unique Life Cycle and Impact on the Ecosystem

Periodical cicadas have a life cycle of about four weeks and are expected to remain visible through June. Their signature singing usually begins a few days after a mass emergence, and many residents find the sound of their chirping and trilling to be a beautiful and comforting aspect of the cicada experience.

Cicadas spend most of their lives underground, emerging for only a brief period as adults. This year’s emergence is particularly special due to the rare occurrence of two broods appearing simultaneously, a phenomenon that hasn’t happened in 221 years. The 17-year Brood XIII is expected to affect southern Wisconsin, primarily south of Interstate 94, while the 13-year Brood XIX will emerge in central and southern Illinois.

A Rare and Fascinating Natural Phenomenon

The emergence of periodical cicadas is a unique and captivating natural event that showcases the intricate cycles of nature. As residents marvel at the sight and sound of these insects, they are reminded of the passage of time and the interconnectedness of the ecosystem.

The cicadas’ brief appearance above ground serves as a reminder of the complex and fascinating world that exists beneath our feet. As the insects continue to emerge across the Chicago area, residents are encouraged to appreciate and enjoy this rare and remarkable natural phenomenon while it lasts.