To put it simply: cicadas aren’t dangerous, but they’re intriguing. They spend most of their lives underground, only to emerge in dramatic fashion, singing their songs and mating. And while they might look a bit creepy with their big eyes and wings, they’re mostly harmless to humans. Let’s dive deeper into what cicadas are, their habits, and why you shouldn’t worry about their presence.
What Are Cicadas?
Cicadas belong to a group of insects known as Hemiptera. There are over 3,000 species worldwide, and they can be found almost everywhere on Earth, except the coldest regions. When you think of cicadas, you might picture a summer setting where these insects are buzzing away as the sun shines bright.
Cicadas are easily recognizable by their large bodies, wide eyes, and transparent wings. Some species have distinctive colors ranging from green to black or brown. Their most captivating feature? The males produce loud calls to attract females. It’s like their own version of a serenade, echoing through the trees.
The most famous cicadas are the periodical cicadas, which have a 13- or 17-year lifecycle. They spend almost their entire life underground, feeding on tree roots before emerging to mate and lay eggs. This life cycle is pretty remarkable and is one of the reasons people are captivated by these insects.
Are Cicadas Harmful to Humans?
Honestly, the short answer is no. Cicadas are not harmful to humans in a direct way. They don’t bite or sting, which sets them apart from many other insects like wasps and bees. Instead, cicadas are more of a nuisance than a danger. They can be a bit noisy, especially during mating season, where their calls can reach up to 100 decibels.
You might be wondering if cicadas can transmit diseases or harm your plants. The good news is that they don’t carry any diseases that affect humans. However, they can cause some damage to young trees and shrubs. When cicadas lay their eggs in tree branches, the small slits made can weaken the branches. This can lead to dieback in young or vulnerable trees.
In summary, cicadas are mostly harmless creatures that may create noise and occasionally cause minor plant damage. So, if you spot one in your yard, there’s no need to panic!
What Should You Watch Out For?
While cicadas aren’t dangerous, there are a few things you should keep an eye on. For starters, if you have young trees, you might want to protect them during cicada season. You can do this using netting or other protective measures. This will help prevent cicadas from laying eggs in the branches.
Another thing to watch for is their sheer number during a emergence year. In heavy cycles, you could find thousands of cicadas buzzing around your home. This intense presence can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not accustomed to it. If they start invading your personal space, you might find them in your garden or even on your porch.
If you’re uncomfortable with the noise and invasion, a simple solution is to stay indoors during peak hours. You can close windows and use fans or air conditioning to drown out their calls. Remember, they usually calm down after a few weeks.
How to Handle Cicada Encounters
If you do find yourself face-to-face with a cicada, don’t stress. Here’s how you can handle encounters with these buzzing insects:
- Don’t Swat: Cicadas are harmless, and swatting can cause them harm. Just leave them be.
- Get Used to the Noise: The best way to deal with their calls is to embrace the summer soundtrack. Consider it a natural symphony!
- Protect Your Plants: As mentioned, covering vulnerable plants can prevent cicadas from laying eggs in them.
- Observe Their Behavior: Cicadas are fascinating creatures. Take a moment to watch their unique behaviors and learn more about their life cycles.
Being aware of how to interact with cicadas can make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
Do Cicadas Have Any Benefits?
Believe it or not, cicadas can actually be beneficial to the ecosystem! When they emerge in large numbers, they provide an abundant food source for many animals. Birds, squirrels, and even some reptiles feast on cicadas. This can help support local wildlife during the summer months.
Moreover, cicadas contribute to the health of trees and soil. When they die after mating, their bodies decompose and provide nutrients to the soil, which promotes healthy plant growth. They also aerate the soil when they emerge, which can benefit the surrounding vegetation.
So, the next time you hear a cicada buzzing, remember that they play a role in the cycle of life, even if they seem annoying at times.
Finding Fact and Fiction in Cicada Myths
There are many myths surrounding cicadas, some of which can create unnecessary fear. One common myth is that cicadas can sting or bite humans. As we’ve discussed, that’s simply not true. They lack the anatomy to do so and are more interested in mate and survival than bothering humans.
Another myth is that cicadas can cause severe injuries or damage to homes. While their noise can be startling, their physical presence won’t damage structures. Those who think a cicada is dangerous are often just misinformed.
By distinguishing fact from fiction, you can better appreciate these fascinating insects without fear.
Final Thoughts on Cicadas
So, are cicadas dangerous to humans? Not at all. They’re harmless, albeit noisy, creatures that are integral to our ecosystem. While they can disturb the peace during their mating season and cause minor damage to plants, they’re not a threat to people. By understanding cicadas better, you can enjoy their presence during the warmer months.
The next time you hear that distinctive buzz, take a moment to appreciate these insects. They’re part of nature’s intricate web of life, and their unique life cycle is something to marvel at. Next summer, don’t be surprised if you find yourself listening to their symphony with a newfound sense of wonder!
