For the last several days the Cicadas have been out in this part of New Jersey. I remember them from their prior appearances in 1996 and 1979.
Since Monday we've been hearing the Cicadas mating call. The sound is almost melodious, and we've been hearing it 24 hours a day. This video gives you a good idea of what they sound like.
Cicada Facts:
* Scientific Name - Magicicada Septendecium
* They spend most of their 17 year lifespan living underground feeding on Xylem from the roots of trees.
* Approximately 17 years after their birth, they emerge from the ground enmasse where they will spend the last 4 to 6 weeks of their life.
* Cicadas have red eyes and a black dorsal thorax.
* They are sometimes called locusts but are NOT related to the locust.
* They range in size from about 3/4" to 1-1/4 inches. Some can be as large as a AA Battery.
* Cicadas are very high in protein and have many nutritional benefits.
* Their sole purpose once they are above ground is to mate. The sound that they emit is their mating call.
* While they do not bite or sting, they have a probiscus that can pierce human skin, so handle with care!
* Many cultures consider the larvae and young cicadas a delicacy. Here are 15 recipes if you want to try them out!
* They only emerge when the soil 8" under ground has reached a temperature of 64 degrees Farenheit.
* After several weeks of mating, the adult cicadas die above ground.
* Each female will lay approximately 600 eggs that will hatch in 6 to 10 weeks at which time the larvae return underground where they will stay for 17 years.
* Cicadas pose little threat to mature plants, but you should hold off on planting anything until after they're done mating.
* There are approximately 1 BILLION cicadas per square mile!
So when you hear that droning noise, or you see a swarm of insects coming, stay calm and know that they'll be gone soon.
Have you seen or heard any Cicadas near you? Tell us about it, we'd love to hear your tales.
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