Billions of Cicadas to Emerge This Spring in Rare Double-Brood Event

Subhead: Trillions of noisy, inch-long cicadas are set to emerge from underground this spring to embark on the final leg of their 13- or 17-year life cycle.

This is a big event: Billions of cicadas will emerge this spring amid a rare double-brood event that hasn't happened in nearly two centuries. The last time a double-brood event occurred was in 1803.

The cicadas, which are native to North America, spend most of their lives underground as nymphs. They feed on the roots of trees and shrubs, and they only emerge above ground to mate and lay eggs. The males produce a loud, high-pitched mating call that can be heard for miles.

This spring, two broods of cicadas will emerge: Brood X, which has a 13-year life cycle, and Brood XIX, which has a 17-year life cycle. The two broods will overlap in several states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland.

The emergence of the cicadas is a major ecological event. The insects provide a food source for birds, raccoons, and other animals. They also help to aerate the soil and spread nutrients.

While the cicadas are harmless to humans, their sheer numbers can be overwhelming. The insects can swarm in the air and on the ground. They can also be noisy, with their mating calls reaching up to 100 decibels.

If you live in an area where the cicadas are expected to emerge, be prepared for a noisy spring. But also remember that the cicadas are a fascinating part of the natural world. Enjoy the experience, and remember that they will only be around for a short time.