News Summary

As spring arrives, Kentucky prepares for the emergence of Brood XIV, a 17-year cicada expected to appear across Central and Eastern Kentucky. This synchronized event will see cicadas surface from the ground in late April to early May. While their mating calls will create notable noise, cicadas play a crucial role in the ecosystem, serving as food for local wildlife. Residents may need to take precautions to protect young trees from potential damage caused by egg-laying activities. Brood XIV’s emergence is a rare spectacle that will not occur again until 2042.

Kentucky Set for Cicada Invasion as Brood XIV Emerges

LOUISVILLE, KY – As spring officially begins, residents across Kentucky are preparing for a unique and noisy natural phenomenon: the emergence of Brood XIV, a type of 17-year cicada. These cicadas will begin to surface from the ground between late April and early May, with the exact timing dependent on local temperatures.

The emergence is expected to be a coordinated event, occurring simultaneously over a large area encompassing much of Central and Eastern Kentucky and parts of Western Kentucky. This synchronized appearance is characteristic of cicadas, which emerge en masse to increase their chances for survival and reproduction.

The Cicada Population and Their Behavior

Cicadas are known for their loud and distinctive mating calls, which can create a considerable amount of noise in affected areas. Male cicadas actively call to attract females and establish their presence among fellow males during this time. Their singing patterns contribute to the formation of distinct bands in trees, serving the dual purpose of courting females and marking their territory.

In the next few weeks, cicadas will lay eggs in tree branches, a process known as flagging. Female cicadas cut slits into the branches to deposit their eggs, which can cause damage to young trees. While this may be concerning for some gardeners and tree owners, experts note that cicadas are not harmful to existing crops.

Cicadas’ Role in the Ecosystem

Despite the temporary disruptions they may cause, cicadas play an important role in the ecosystem. Their emergence provides a significant food source for various animals, including birds, snakes, turkeys, and foxes. This abundance of readily available food contributes to the life cycles of many predators in the local environment.

Once they emerge, cicadas have a lifespan of approximately six to eight weeks. After this short period, they will die off, and the next generation will not make their appearance again until 2042. This long lifecycle and infrequent emergence make Brood XIV a rare event, prompting many residents to prepare for their arrival.

Preparing for the Arrival of Cicadas

As communities brace for the cicadas, some residents and landscapers are considering preparations such as purchasing cicada netting to protect young trees from the potential damage caused by the egg-laying process. This preventative measure may help mitigate the impacts of flagging while still allowing nature to take its course.

Appreciating a Unique Natural Event

The emergence of Brood XIV is anticipated to be a significant and memorable natural event in the coming weeks. While the loud chirping and potential tree damage may be seen as an inconvenience, it is important for residents to appreciate the remarkable life cycle and ecological importance of these cicadas. As Kentucky gears up for this momentous occasion, people are encouraged to observe and celebrate the wonders of nature, even when they bring some challenges.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Kentucky.com: Cicada Season is Here
• WKYT: Brood Cicadas Set to Emerge
• LEX 18: Central Kentucky Misses Cicadas This Year
• WHAS11: When Will Cicadas Emerge
• Wikipedia: Cicada