A historic emergence of trillions of cicadas in the US, marking the largest since 1803 with simultaneous 13-year and 17-year broods, captivates researchers and the public alike.
Trillions of cicadas have emerged in parts of the US in a rare natural event, marking the largest occurrence since 1803. This phenomenon involves the coincident emergence of both 13-year and 17-year cicada broods, characterized by their distinctive orange eyes. These periodical cicadas, known for spending years underground, have seized attention with their loud mating calls that some residents have mistaken for sirens or screams, prompting calls to the police.
The two broods’ simultaneous arrival has sparked interest among both researchers and the public. Some of the cicadas have been affected by a fungus resulting in unusual hyper-sexual behaviour. Despite the alarming noise and the overwhelming number of insects, cicadas pose no threat to humans or pets.
Observers and experts suggest that this spectacle offers a rare opportunity to witness a significant natural cycle. The event is temporary, with cicadas soon expected to retreat underground, not to reappear for another 13 or 17 years.