More than a dozen U.S. states are expected to be swarmed by trillions of noisy flying bugs next month as they emerge from the ground in a rare phenomenon.
Billions, if not trillions, of two groups of noisy flying insects are expected to emerge from the underground in 17 U.S. states in April in a rare natural phenomenon not seen since 1803. The insects, known as cicadas, are set to spring up and engage in a frantic mating frenzy lasting several weeks before they will all eventually die near trees. But that’s not before they lay eggs on forest floors and the cycle of life begins anew.
It will be the first time in 221 years that two types of cicadas -- brood XIX and XIII-- have risen from the ground at the same time, back when Thomas Jefferson was president, and it is not expected to happen again until 2244. The one to two-inch-long bugs possess sturdy bodies, bulging compounded red eyes and membranous wings with a three-inch wingspan. But don't be alarmed, cicadas are not harmful to humans, pets, household gardens, or crops, the Environmental Protection Agency says.
You cannot possibly be unaware that periodical cicadas are out, because they’re out by the millions and millions, and they’re noisy, charismatic, active insects that are just everywhere,' Cooley said. Cicadas can be dangerous to young trees, however, as they lay their eggs in small tree branches which can harm the tree, the EPA says. The agency advises covering maturing saplings in mesh or netting to keep the insects out. Reuters and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
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Trillions of cicadas to swarm this month in event that happens every 221 yearsThe last time it happened, Thomas Jefferson was president. Later this month, two substantial broods of cicadas, known as Brood XIII and XIX, are set to come to the surface after spending 17 and 13 years, respectively, developing underground.
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Cicada double brood event: What to expect when trillions of bugs emerge in Eastern USCarys Matthews is a freelance writer for Live Science and has a passion for the natural world. Most recently the group digital editor of BBC Wildlife and BBC Countryfile Magazine, she writes about the outdoors, nature and health and fitness. Prior to this she has worked for a number of sports and environmental titles in the U.K.
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