Periodical cicadas will emerge en masse from underground homes in Maryland and a dozen other states this spring, with the Brood XIV emergence expected to bring a cacophony of noise. The cicadas’ 13- or 17-year cycle allows them to avoid predators that have shorter life cycles.
Typically, cicadas emerge when soil temperatures reach 64°F, usually between mid-April and mid-May. However, winter severity can affect this timing. Periodical cicadas, unlike annual cicadas, have regional broods and emerge in synchronized bursts every 13 or 17 years.
Cicadas’ evolutionary strategy is shrouded in mystery, with theories suggesting it’s to avoid predators that are triggered by shorter life cycles. Another theory proposes that their emergence is linked to climate cooling during ice ages.
The cicadas’ loud chirping can reach 100 decibels, equivalent to the sound of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle or a jackhammer. Their short-lived emergence allows them just enough time to reproduce before dying off.
Cicadas are prey for copperheads and other animals, but people also eat them as a rare delicacy. Cicadas are high in protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious food source when prepared correctly.
While the emergence of cicadas can be overwhelming, it’s essential to remember that the bugs only live a few weeks above ground, and most pets won’t experience problems if they ingest an exoskeleton.
Source: https://patch.com/maryland/belair/cicada-mania-coming-md-12-other-states-2025