Something magical is about to happen in Pennsylvania's south-central region.

         While we humans start to think about warmer days ahead, it's not just us. There's something else stirring beneath the earth. Cicadas!

         These cicadas have been living underground for seventeen long years! They're waiting for the perfect temperature, about 64°F to come out.  Something interesting happens once they come out.

        These cicadas will make an appearance in Adams and Berks Counties and spread to 12 other places this year. Three different species of 17-year cicadas will be emerging.  It is a good time to study some natural history.

        Here is the fun part.  Cicadas are everywhere, and that's great for the animals around. They will be food for local wild animals. Birds and other creatures will have a snack!  Cicada time is a special time, it helps the ecosystem.

        Are cicadas harmful? No. These creatures are harmless.  They don't bite or sting. But their appearance can freak people out.  Their number can be scary.  Cicadas will come out, mate, and then die. They have one job in the ecosystem, so do not be afraid.

        Let's not forget, the last time these cicadas came out was in 2021.  It was a double emergence the likes of which we have not seen in a long time. It is a good time to study nature.

Cicada Season: A Boon for Nature

Actions