Why Do Cicadas Fly At You? Understanding Cicada Behavior

Cicadas fly at you because they are not naturally inclined to fly away from potential threats and are poor fliers; however, at WHY.EDU.VN, we can dive deeper into the science behind this behavior and explore the fascinating world of cicadas, offering comprehensive answers and expert insights into insect behavior and ecology. We will explore all of the factors that cause these harmless, loud bugs to fly at people. This involves a close look at cicada navigation, their mating habits, and predator interactions, providing insights applicable to ecological studies and entomology.

1. What Makes Cicadas Fly Towards People?

Cicadas often seem to fly directly toward people not out of aggression, but due to a combination of factors including poor flight control, misidentification, and a lack of fear responses typical in other insects.

Poor Flight Control: Cicadas are not known for their graceful or precise flight. Their large size and relatively clumsy movements can make their flight paths erratic and unpredictable. This lack of agility means they may accidentally fly into people or objects in their environment.
Misidentification: Cicadas rely on visual cues to navigate and find suitable places to land, such as trees or shrubs. Humans, especially when dressed in clothing that mimics natural colors or patterns, can be mistaken for potential landing spots. The cicada might simply be trying to land on what it perceives as a viable perch.
Lack of Fear Response: Unlike many insects that quickly fly away from perceived threats, cicadas do not exhibit a strong fear response towards larger animals, including humans. This lack of aversion might be due to their evolutionary history, where their primary strategy for survival involves overwhelming predators through sheer numbers during their mass emergences.
Disorientation: Newly emerged cicadas can sometimes be disoriented as they adjust to their adult forms. This disorientation can lead to erratic flying behavior, increasing the likelihood of accidental encounters with people.

Understanding these factors can help demystify why cicadas fly toward people, emphasizing that it is generally accidental and not an aggressive behavior.

2. How Do Cicadas Navigate?

Cicada navigation is primarily based on visual and possibly auditory cues, which they use to find mates, suitable habitats, and avoid obstacles.

Visual Cues: Cicadas heavily rely on their vision to navigate. They have large, well-developed eyes that help them detect movement, shapes, and colors. Visual cues are crucial for identifying potential mates, locating host trees for feeding and reproduction, and avoiding predators.
Auditory Cues: Male cicadas are famous for their loud calls, which they use to attract females. While these calls are primarily for mating purposes, they may also play a role in navigation. Cicadas might use the soundscapes of their environment to orient themselves and find areas with higher densities of their species.
Spatial Memory: It is also possible that cicadas use spatial memory to navigate within their habitats. Although this has not been extensively studied, some insects are known to remember the locations of important resources and landmarks. Cicadas might similarly learn the layout of their environment over time, helping them to move efficiently between feeding sites and mating areas.

3. What Is the Mating Behavior of Cicadas?

The mating behavior of cicadas is a complex process that involves acoustic signals, visual displays, and tactile interactions.

Acoustic Signaling: Male cicadas produce loud, species-specific calls using tymbals, which are vibrating membranes located on their abdomen. These calls serve to attract females and can be incredibly loud, reaching up to 120 decibels in some species. The males often gather in groups, forming choruses that amplify their collective signal.
Female Response: Females are attracted to the calls of the males and will fly towards the source of the sound. Each cicada species has a unique call pattern, ensuring that females are drawn to males of their own species. Upon reaching the males, females may engage in a call-and-response behavior, further confirming their species identity and readiness to mate.
Mating Process: Once a female selects a mate, the pair will engage in a courtship ritual that may involve tactile interactions and further vocalizations. The male will then transfer a spermatophore to the female, which contains the sperm. Mating can last for several hours, during which the pair remains connected.
Post-Mating Behavior: After mating, the female cicada will lay her eggs in the branches of trees. She uses her ovipositor to slice into the bark and deposit her eggs inside. This process can cause damage to the tree, especially when many females lay eggs in the same area. The eggs will hatch, and the nymphs will drop to the ground, burrowing into the soil to begin their long subterranean life cycle.

4. How Do Cicadas Interact With Predators?

Cicadas employ several strategies to interact with predators, primarily relying on their massive numbers and synchronized emergence to overwhelm potential threats.

Predator Satiation: The most effective strategy cicadas use to avoid predation is predator satiation. By emerging in massive numbers, cicadas overwhelm the local predator populations. There are simply too many cicadas for predators to eat, ensuring that a significant proportion of the cicadas survive to reproduce.
Synchronized Emergence: Cicadas emerge synchronously, meaning that they all appear within a relatively short period. This synchronized emergence further enhances the effect of predator satiation. Predators are faced with a sudden glut of cicadas, which they cannot possibly consume entirely.
Camouflage: Adult cicadas have cryptic coloration that helps them blend in with their environment. Their mottled brown and green patterns make them difficult to spot against tree bark and foliage. This camouflage provides some protection from visual predators.
Startle Response: When threatened, cicadas may exhibit a startle response, such as suddenly flapping their wings or jumping. This behavior can momentarily startle a predator, giving the cicada a chance to escape.
Limited Defenses: Cicadas have limited physical defenses against predators. They do not bite or sting, and their exoskeletons are relatively soft compared to other insects. Their primary defense is their ability to fly away, although their flight is not particularly agile or fast.

5. What Scientific Research Explains Cicada Flight Patterns?

Scientific research on cicada flight patterns is limited, but several studies provide insights into their behavior and aerodynamics.

Aerodynamics: Some studies have focused on the aerodynamics of cicada flight, examining how their wing structure and movement contribute to their ability to fly. These studies often use high-speed cameras and computational fluid dynamics to analyze the airflow around cicada wings.
Neurology: Research on the neurology of insect flight can also provide insights into cicada behavior. Studies on other insects have shown that flight is controlled by complex neural circuits that integrate sensory information and coordinate muscle movements. Similar mechanisms likely underlie cicada flight, though specific research on cicada neurology is needed.
Behavioral Ecology: Behavioral ecology studies explore how animals interact with their environment and how their behavior is shaped by evolutionary pressures. Research in this area could examine how cicada flight patterns are influenced by factors such as habitat structure, predator presence, and mating opportunities.
Sensory Biology: Cicadas rely on visual and auditory cues to navigate and find mates. Research on their sensory biology can help explain how they perceive their environment and how this perception influences their flight behavior.

6. Do Cicadas Target Humans Specifically?

Cicadas do not target humans specifically. Their behavior of flying towards people is generally accidental and results from a combination of factors.

Accidental Encounters: Cicadas are not particularly agile fliers, and their flight paths can be erratic. This lack of precision means they may accidentally fly into people or other objects in their environment.
Misidentification: Cicadas rely on visual cues to navigate and find suitable places to land, such as trees or shrubs. Humans, especially when dressed in clothing that mimics natural colors or patterns, can be mistaken for potential landing spots. The cicada might simply be trying to land on what it perceives as a viable perch.
Lack of Aggression: Cicadas are not aggressive insects and do not have any reason to target humans. They do not bite or sting and are primarily focused on mating and laying eggs during their brief adult lives.
Limited Cognitive Ability: Insects, including cicadas, have limited cognitive abilities compared to vertebrates. They are not capable of complex decision-making or intentional targeting of specific individuals. Their behavior is primarily driven by instinct and simple responses to environmental stimuli.

7. What Role Does Climate Play in Cicada Behavior?

Climate plays a significant role in cicada behavior, affecting their emergence patterns, distribution, and overall survival.

Temperature: Temperature is a critical factor in determining when cicadas emerge. The soil temperature at a certain depth must reach a specific threshold for the nymphs to begin their final molt and emerge as adults. Changes in climate, such as warmer springs, can cause cicadas to emerge earlier than usual.
Rainfall: Rainfall also affects cicada emergence and survival. Adequate rainfall is necessary for the nymphs to thrive underground, as they rely on moisture to feed on plant roots. Drought conditions can reduce nymph survival and delay emergence.
Climate Change: Long-term climate change can have significant impacts on cicada populations. Shifts in temperature and rainfall patterns can disrupt their synchronized emergence, making them more vulnerable to predators and less successful at finding mates. Climate change can also alter the distribution of cicada species, as they may be forced to move to more suitable habitats.
Habitat Alteration: Climate change can indirectly affect cicadas by altering their habitats. Changes in temperature and rainfall can affect the growth and distribution of trees and other plants that cicadas rely on for food and shelter. This can lead to declines in cicada populations in areas where their habitats are degraded.

8. What Are the Different Types of Cicadas and Their Behaviors?

Cicadas are divided into two main categories: periodical cicadas and annual cicadas, each with distinct life cycles and behaviors.

Periodical Cicadas: Periodical cicadas are known for their long life cycles, typically 13 or 17 years, spent underground as nymphs. They emerge in massive numbers, overwhelming predators and ensuring their survival. Their emergence is highly synchronized, with all individuals in a particular brood emerging within a short period. Periodical cicadas are found only in eastern North America and are divided into several different broods, each with its own geographic distribution and emergence schedule.
Annual Cicadas: Annual cicadas, also known as dog-day cicadas, have life cycles that range from 2 to 5 years, with some adults emerging every year. They do not emerge in the same massive numbers as periodical cicadas and are more widely distributed, found on multiple continents. Their calls are often different from those of periodical cicadas, with some species producing buzzing or clicking sounds.
Behavioral Differences: Periodical and annual cicadas also exhibit differences in their behavior. Periodical cicadas are more likely to engage in synchronized chorusing, where males gather in large groups to call to females. Annual cicadas are more solitary, with males typically calling from isolated locations. Additionally, periodical cicadas are more likely to be active during the day, while some annual cicadas may be active at night.

9. How Do Cicadas Communicate With Each Other?

Cicadas primarily communicate with each other through acoustic signals, using sound to attract mates and coordinate their behavior.

Acoustic Signals: Male cicadas produce loud, species-specific calls using tymbals, which are vibrating membranes located on their abdomen. These calls serve to attract females and can be incredibly loud, reaching up to 120 decibels in some species. The males often gather in groups, forming choruses that amplify their collective signal.
Species-Specific Calls: Each cicada species has a unique call pattern, ensuring that females are drawn to males of their own species. These calls vary in frequency, duration, and rhythm, allowing cicadas to distinguish between different species.
Chorusing Behavior: Male cicadas often engage in chorusing behavior, where they gather in large groups to call to females. This synchronized calling amplifies their collective signal and increases the likelihood of attracting mates. Chorusing can also help to synchronize the emergence and mating behavior of cicadas within a particular area.
Other Communication Methods: While acoustic signals are the primary means of communication for cicadas, they may also use visual or chemical cues in certain situations. Visual displays, such as wing-flapping or body movements, could be used to signal aggression or dominance. Chemical signals, such as pheromones, could be used to attract mates or mark territory.

10. How Can You Protect Yourself From Cicadas?

Protecting yourself from cicadas primarily involves understanding their behavior and taking simple precautions during their emergence periods.

Understanding Cicada Behavior: The key to protecting yourself from cicadas is to understand that they are not aggressive and do not target humans specifically. Their behavior of flying towards people is generally accidental and results from their poor flight control and misidentification of potential landing spots.
Physical Barriers: If you want to avoid cicadas, you can use physical barriers to protect yourself and your property. This could involve staying indoors during peak cicada activity, using screens on windows and doors to prevent cicadas from entering your home, and covering young trees and shrubs with netting to prevent cicadas from laying eggs in their branches.
Protective Clothing: If you need to be outdoors during cicada season, you can wear protective clothing to minimize your exposure. This could include wearing long sleeves and pants, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Repellents: While there are no proven cicada repellents, some people have reported success using citronella candles or sprays to keep cicadas away. However, the effectiveness of these products is not guaranteed, and they may need to be applied frequently.

11. Can Cicadas Cause Damage to Trees and Plants?

Yes, cicadas can cause damage to trees and plants, primarily through the egg-laying behavior of the females.

Ovipositing Damage: Female cicadas use their ovipositors to slice into the branches of trees and deposit their eggs inside. This process can cause damage to the tree, especially when many females lay eggs in the same area. The damage can result in the death of small branches and twigs, a phenomenon known as “flagging.”
Impact on Young Trees: Young trees are particularly vulnerable to cicada damage. The egg-laying activity of cicadas can stunt their growth and even kill them. Protecting young trees with netting during cicada season is often recommended to prevent damage.
Damage to Mature Trees: While mature trees are more resilient to cicada damage, they can still be affected. Heavy infestations of cicadas can cause significant flagging, which can reduce the tree’s overall health and vigor. Additionally, the wounds created by cicada ovipositing can provide entry points for pathogens, such as fungi and bacteria, which can further damage the tree.
Benefits of Cicada Activity: Despite the potential for damage, cicada activity can also provide some benefits to trees and plants. The pruning effect of cicada ovipositing can stimulate new growth and increase fruit production. Additionally, the decomposition of cicada bodies can add nutrients to the soil, which can benefit plant growth.

12. What Is the Evolutionary Advantage of Cicada Behavior?

The unique behaviors of cicadas, such as their long life cycles, synchronized emergence, and loud calls, have evolved to maximize their survival and reproductive success.

Predator Satiation: The long life cycles and synchronized emergence of periodical cicadas are thought to have evolved as a strategy to overwhelm predators. By emerging in massive numbers, cicadas saturate the local predator populations, ensuring that a significant proportion of the cicadas survive to reproduce.
Reduced Competition: The long life cycles of periodical cicadas may also help to reduce competition for resources. By spending most of their lives underground as nymphs, they avoid competing with other insects for food and habitat.
Mate Attraction: The loud calls of male cicadas have evolved to attract females from long distances. These calls are species-specific, ensuring that females are drawn to males of their own species. The chorusing behavior of male cicadas amplifies their collective signal, increasing the likelihood of attracting mates.
Enhanced Reproduction: By emerging in massive numbers and attracting mates from long distances, cicadas maximize their reproductive success. The large number of eggs laid by each female ensures that a significant proportion of the offspring survive to continue the life cycle.

13. How Do Scientists Study Cicadas?

Scientists study cicadas using a variety of methods, including field observations, laboratory experiments, and genetic analyses.

Field Observations: Field observations involve directly observing cicadas in their natural habitats. This can include monitoring their emergence patterns, recording their calls, and tracking their movements. Field observations can provide valuable insights into cicada behavior and ecology.
Laboratory Experiments: Laboratory experiments involve bringing cicadas into a controlled environment to study their behavior and physiology. This can include studying their responses to different stimuli, measuring their metabolic rates, and examining their sensory organs.
Genetic Analyses: Genetic analyses involve studying the DNA of cicadas to understand their evolutionary relationships and population structure. This can include comparing the DNA of different cicada species, identifying genetic markers that are associated with specific traits, and tracking the movement of cicadas across geographic regions.
Citizen Science: Citizen science projects involve engaging members of the public in scientific research. This can include asking people to report cicada sightings, collect cicada specimens, and participate in online surveys. Citizen science projects can help to gather large amounts of data over wide geographic areas. A good example of this is the Cicada Safari app, which allows people to record Cicada sightings. According to research done at Mount Saint Joseph University, the app has recorded over 650,000 cicada sightings.

14. Are Cicadas Harmful to Humans or Pets?

Cicadas are not harmful to humans or pets. They do not bite or sting and are not known to transmit any diseases.

No Biting or Stinging: Cicadas do not have any mouthparts that are capable of biting or stinging humans or pets. They feed on plant sap using a specialized proboscis, which is a long, straw-like structure that they insert into plant stems and roots.
No Disease Transmission: Cicadas are not known to transmit any diseases to humans or pets. They are not vectors for any known pathogens.
Potential Allergens: While cicadas are not generally harmful, some people may be allergic to them. Cicada exoskeletons contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. However, allergic reactions to cicadas are rare.
Choking Hazard for Pets: Pets may be tempted to eat cicadas, which can pose a choking hazard, especially for small animals. Additionally, the exoskeletons of cicadas can be difficult for pets to digest and may cause gastrointestinal upset.

15. What Should You Do if a Cicada Lands on You?

If a cicada lands on you, the best thing to do is to remain calm and avoid sudden movements.

Stay Calm: Cicadas are not aggressive and do not target humans specifically. If a cicada lands on you, it is likely an accident. Panicking or making sudden movements may startle the cicada and cause it to fly away erratically.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden movements may scare the cicada and cause it to cling to you more tightly. Try to remain still and allow the cicada to crawl off on its own.
Gently Encourage It to Leave: If the cicada does not crawl off on its own, you can gently encourage it to leave by nudging it with a piece of paper or a twig. Avoid grabbing or swatting at the cicada, as this may injure it.
Move to a Safe Location: If you are uncomfortable with the cicada on you, you can move to a safe location, such as indoors, and allow the cicada to fly away on its own.

16. What Are Some Common Myths About Cicadas?

There are many myths and misconceptions about cicadas, some of which have been perpetuated for generations.

Cicadas Are Locusts: One of the most common myths about cicadas is that they are locusts. Locusts are a type of grasshopper that can form large swarms and cause significant damage to crops. Cicadas are a completely different type of insect and do not cause the same type of damage as locusts.
Cicadas Bite or Sting: Another common myth is that cicadas bite or sting. Cicadas do not have any mouthparts that are capable of biting or stinging humans. They feed on plant sap using a specialized proboscis.
Cicadas Are Poisonous: Some people believe that cicadas are poisonous and should not be touched. Cicadas are not poisonous and are not harmful to humans.
Cicadas Only Emerge Every 17 Years: While periodical cicadas do emerge every 13 or 17 years, there are also annual cicadas that emerge every year. The myth that all cicadas only emerge every 17 years is incorrect.

17. How Do Cicada Sounds Affect People and Animals?

Cicada sounds can have various effects on people and animals, ranging from annoyance to potential hearing damage.

Annoyance: The loud calls of male cicadas can be annoying to some people, especially when they are present in large numbers. The constant buzzing or clicking sounds can be disruptive and interfere with daily activities.
Hearing Damage: In extreme cases, the loud calls of cicadas can cause hearing damage, especially for people who are exposed to them for prolonged periods. The sound levels produced by cicadas can reach up to 120 decibels, which is loud enough to cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.
Stress: The loud sounds of cicadas can also cause stress in people and animals. The constant noise can be overwhelming and can lead to anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
Attraction for Animals: The sounds produced by cicadas can attract other animals, such as birds and mammals, which prey on cicadas. These animals may be drawn to areas with high cicada activity in search of food.

18. Can Cicadas Be Used as a Food Source?

Yes, cicadas can be used as a food source, and they are considered a delicacy in some cultures.

Nutritional Value: Cicadas are a good source of protein, fat, and minerals. They are also low in carbohydrates and contain essential amino acids.
Culinary Uses: Cicadas can be prepared in a variety of ways, including roasting, frying, and grilling. They can be eaten whole or used as an ingredient in other dishes, such as salads, tacos, and stir-fries.
Cultural Significance: In some cultures, cicadas are considered a delicacy and are eaten as a traditional food. They are often harvested during their emergence periods and prepared in various ways.
Safety Considerations: When eating cicadas, it is important to harvest them from areas that are free from pesticides and other contaminants. Additionally, people who are allergic to shellfish may also be allergic to cicadas and should avoid eating them.

19. What Is the Difference Between Cicadas and Locusts?

Cicadas and locusts are often confused, but they are distinctly different insects with different behaviors and ecological roles.

Taxonomy: Cicadas belong to the order Hemiptera, while locusts belong to the order Orthoptera. This means that they are not closely related and have different evolutionary histories.
Appearance: Cicadas are generally larger than locusts and have different body shapes. Cicadas have broad, stout bodies with large, transparent wings, while locusts have slender bodies with long, narrow wings.
Behavior: Cicadas are known for their loud calls, which they use to attract mates. Locusts do not produce loud calls and are primarily known for their swarming behavior.
Ecological Role: Cicadas feed on plant sap and can cause damage to trees and plants through their egg-laying activity. Locusts feed on plant leaves and can cause widespread defoliation and crop damage during swarms.

20. Where Can You Find the Most Cicadas?

The best places to find cicadas depend on the type of cicada and the time of year.

Eastern North America: Periodical cicadas are found only in eastern North America. The best places to find them are in areas with mature forests and woodlands. During their emergence periods, periodical cicadas can be found in massive numbers in these areas.
Worldwide: Annual cicadas are found throughout the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas.
Peak Activity: The best time to find cicadas is during their peak activity periods. Periodical cicadas emerge in the spring, while annual cicadas emerge in the summer. The exact timing of their emergence depends on the species and the local climate.
Specific Locations: Some specific locations that are known for their cicada activity include the forests of the eastern United States, the grasslands of Australia, and the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia.

21. How Long Do Cicadas Live?

The lifespan of cicadas varies depending on the species, with periodical cicadas having the longest life cycles.

Periodical Cicadas: Periodical cicadas have life cycles of 13 or 17 years. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots. After 13 or 17 years, they emerge as adults, mate, lay eggs, and die within a few weeks.
Annual Cicadas: Annual cicadas have life cycles that range from 2 to 5 years. They also spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on plant roots. Unlike periodical cicadas, some adults emerge every year.
Adult Lifespan: The adult lifespan of cicadas is relatively short, typically lasting only a few weeks. During this time, they focus on mating and laying eggs. They do not feed as adults and rely on the energy reserves they accumulated as nymphs.
Factors Affecting Lifespan: The lifespan of cicadas can be affected by a variety of factors, including temperature, rainfall, and predation. Warmer temperatures can accelerate their development, while drought conditions can delay their emergence. Predators can also reduce their lifespan by consuming them.

22. Why Are Cicadas So Loud?

Cicadas are so loud because they produce sound using specialized structures called tymbals, and they often call in groups to amplify their collective signal.

Tymbals: Male cicadas produce loud, species-specific calls using tymbals, which are vibrating membranes located on their abdomen. These membranes are vibrated by muscles, producing a loud, clicking sound.
Resonating Chambers: Cicadas have resonating chambers in their bodies that amplify the sound produced by their tymbals. These chambers act like megaphones, increasing the volume of their calls.
Chorusing Behavior: Male cicadas often engage in chorusing behavior, where they gather in large groups to call to females. This synchronized calling amplifies their collective signal and increases the likelihood of attracting mates.
Mate Attraction: The primary purpose of cicada calls is to attract females. The louder the call, the more likely it is to attract a mate. Cicadas have evolved to produce extremely loud calls to maximize their reproductive success.

23. What Is the Role of Cicadas in the Ecosystem?

Cicadas play several important roles in the ecosystem, including nutrient cycling, soil aeration, and providing food for other animals.

Nutrient Cycling: Cicadas contribute to nutrient cycling by feeding on plant roots as nymphs and then dying and decomposing as adults. Their bodies release nutrients back into the soil, which can benefit plant growth.
Soil Aeration: The burrowing activity of cicada nymphs helps to aerate the soil, improving its drainage and fertility. This can benefit plant growth and overall ecosystem health.
Food Source: Cicadas serve as a food source for a variety of animals, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. During their emergence periods, cicadas provide a temporary but abundant food source for these animals.
Pruning Effect: The egg-laying activity of female cicadas can have a pruning effect on trees and plants. This can stimulate new growth and increase fruit production.

24. What Are the Threats to Cicada Populations?

Cicada populations face several threats, including habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.

Habitat Loss: Habitat loss is one of the biggest threats to cicada populations. As forests and woodlands are cleared for development, cicadas lose their food sources and breeding grounds.
Pesticide Use: Pesticide use can also harm cicada populations. Pesticides can kill cicadas directly or indirectly by contaminating their food sources.
Climate Change: Climate change can disrupt the synchronized emergence of cicadas, making them more vulnerable to predators and less successful at finding mates. Climate change can also alter the distribution of cicada species, as they may be forced to move to more suitable habitats.
Introduced Species: Introduced species, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, can also pose a threat to cicada populations. These species can compete with cicadas for resources or prey on them directly.

25. How Can You Help Protect Cicadas?

You can help protect cicadas by preserving their habitats, avoiding pesticide use, and supporting research and conservation efforts.

Preserve Habitats: Preserving forests and woodlands is essential for protecting cicada populations. You can support conservation efforts by donating to land trusts, volunteering for habitat restoration projects, and advocating for policies that protect natural areas.
Avoid Pesticide Use: Avoiding pesticide use can help to protect cicadas from direct and indirect harm. Consider using natural pest control methods in your garden and yard.
Support Research and Conservation: Supporting research and conservation efforts can help to increase our understanding of cicadas and develop effective strategies for protecting them. You can donate to research organizations, participate in citizen science projects, and advocate for policies that support cicada conservation.
Educate Others: Educating others about cicadas can help to raise awareness of their importance and the threats they face. Share information about cicadas with your friends, family, and community.

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FAQ: Common Questions About Cicadas

Question	Answer
Are cicadas dangerous?	No, cicadas are not dangerous to humans or pets. They do not bite or sting.
Why are cicadas so loud?	Male cicadas produce loud calls to attract mates, using specialized structures called tymbals.
How long do cicadas live?	The lifespan of cicadas varies depending on the species, with periodical cicadas living for 13 or 17 years.
What do cicadas eat?	Cicada nymphs feed on plant roots, while adults do not feed.
Where can I find cicadas?	Cicadas can be found in forests, woodlands, and urban areas, depending on the species.
Do cicadas damage trees?	Female cicadas can damage trees by laying eggs in their branches.
How can I protect my trees from cicadas?	You can protect your trees by covering them with netting during cicada season.
Are cicadas good for the environment?	Yes, cicadas play several important roles in the ecosystem, including nutrient cycling and soil aeration.
Can I eat cicadas?	Yes, cicadas are edible and are considered a delicacy in some cultures.
What is the difference between cicadas and locusts?	Cicadas and locusts are different types of insects with different behaviors and ecological roles. Cicadas don’t swarm and are generally harmless, unlike locusts.