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May 28, 2024Wildlife

Cicada Watch 2024: What Georgia Residents Should Know

Understanding Cicadas

Lifecycle: Cicadas are known for their distinctive lifecycle, spending most of their lives underground. Depending on the brood, they emerge every 13 or 17 years to mate, lay eggs, and then die. This year, Brood XIX, a 13-year brood, will be making its appearance.

Appearance and Sound: Cicadas are easily identifiable by their giant wings and bulbous eyes. They produce a loud, distinctive buzzing sound, the males calling to attract females. The noise can be overwhelming but is generally harmless.

Impact on Georgia Residents

Ecological Benefits: Despite their alarming numbers and loud noise, cicadas benefit the ecosystem. They aerate the soil when they emerge, provide a food source for many predators, and enrich the soil with their decomposing bodies.

Potential Issues: Cicadas don’t bite or sting, but they can be a nuisance. Their sheer numbers can be unsettling, and they may damage young trees and shrubs by laying eggs in small branches.

Preparing for the Cicada Emergence

Protecting Young Plants: If you have young trees or shrubs, consider protecting them with netting to prevent cicadas from laying eggs on them. This is especially important for newly planted or delicate plants.

Managing Noise: The noise from cicadas can be very loud, especially during the day. While there’s little you can do to stop the noise, knowing it’s temporary can help. It typically lasts for about four to six weeks.

Dealing with Cicada Bodies: Once cicadas die off, their bodies can be numerous. Regularly clean up your yard to prevent the buildup of decomposing insects, which can attract other pests.

Bug House Keeps Cicadas Out

Cicada emergences are natural phenomena. By understanding their lifecycle and preparing for their appearance, Georgia residents can minimize potential issues and appreciate the unique experience of a cicada emergence.

Are you ready for the emergence of cicadas? Stay informed and prepared with Bug House Pest Control. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Bug House customers throughout Georgia in Augusta, Carrollton, Columbus, Dublin, Eastman, Forsyth, Lake Oconee, Macon, Madison, McDonough, Milledgeville, Monroe, Sandersville, Savannah, St. Simons, Warner Robins, and Watkinsville.