Michigan Cicada Invasion 2024: When, Where, & What to Expect!

Michigan is bracing for a fascinating natural phenomenon: a significant emergence of cicadas. The impending Michigan cicada emergence will bring two broods together, creating a spectacle not witnessed in centuries. This event involves periodical cicadas, known for their synchronized life cycles. Entomologists are actively studying the potential ecological impacts of this large-scale emergence. Their research helps understand the effects on plant life and other insect populations. The buzzing soundscapes of the Michigan cicada will soon be a temporary soundtrack to the landscape.

Image taken from the YouTube channel The Midwest Guru , from the video titled Are Cicadas In Michigan? - The Midwest Guru .

Michigan Cicada Invasion 2024: When, Where, & What to Expect!

The year 2024 marks a rare and significant entomological event for Michigan: the emergence of both Brood XIII (a 17-year cicada brood) and Brood XIX (a 13-year cicada brood). This simultaneous emergence hasn't happened in Michigan since 1803, making it a truly historic occasion for nature enthusiasts and anyone curious about the natural world.

Understanding Cicadas

Cicadas are insects belonging to the order Hemiptera, known for their loud buzzing or clicking songs produced by the males. Unlike locusts (often mistakenly associated with them), cicadas do not swarm and cause widespread agricultural damage. They are primarily a nuisance due to their sheer numbers and the noise they create.

• Periodic Cicadas: These cicadas have exceptionally long life cycles, spending most of their lives as nymphs underground, feeding on tree roots. They emerge en masse only after 13 or 17 years.
• Annual Cicadas: These cicadas emerge every year, though they may not be as noticeable as the periodic broods.

The Michigan Cicada Double Emergence of 2024

The convergence of Brood XIII and Brood XIX represents a fascinating biological event. Understanding the specific characteristics of each brood is key to anticipating their impact.

Brood XIII: The Great Northern Illinois Brood

This 17-year brood is expected to emerge primarily in Illinois, but western Michigan counties closest to Lake Michigan may experience some activity.

• Emergence Timing: Typically emerges in late May to early June, when soil temperatures reach around 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Geographic Distribution: Historically centered around Illinois, with potential scattered appearances in Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
• Characteristics: Relatively large cicadas with black bodies, reddish eyes, and orange veins in their wings.

Brood XIX: The Great Southern Brood

This 13-year brood is much larger and more widespread than Brood XIII. Although primarily located in the southern United States, its potential reach extends into southern and possibly central Michigan.

• Emergence Timing: Similar to Brood XIII, emerging in late May to early June, dictated by soil temperature.
• Geographic Distribution: One of the largest and most geographically widespread of the 13-year broods, spanning from the Southeast up into the Midwest. Expect sightings concentrated in the southern parts of Michigan.
• Characteristics: Resembles Brood XIII in appearance.

Where in Michigan to Expect Cicadas

Predicting the precise locations of cicada emergences is challenging, but historical records and suitable habitat provide clues.

• Southern Michigan: This region is most likely to experience the effects of Brood XIX, especially counties bordering Indiana and Ohio.
• Western Michigan: Counties along Lake Michigan may see some activity from Brood XIII, though the emergence is predicted to be less significant than in Illinois.
• Habitat Considerations: Cicadas prefer areas with mature trees, particularly deciduous forests and orchards. Areas with significant recent development may see fewer cicadas.

What to Expect During the Emergence

The emergence of cicadas can be a noisy and visually striking event. Here's what you can expect:

1. Noise: Male cicadas produce a loud, buzzing mating call that can be quite intense, especially in areas with large populations.
2. Abundance: Expect to see thousands, even millions, of cicadas in affected areas.
3. Shed Skins: Cicadas leave behind their shed exoskeletons, which can be found clinging to trees, buildings, and other surfaces.
4. Egg-Laying: Female cicadas lay their eggs in small twigs, sometimes causing minor damage to young trees.
5. Short Lifespan: Adult cicadas live for only a few weeks, primarily focused on mating and reproduction.

Potential Impacts and Concerns

While cicadas are generally harmless to humans, their emergence can have some impacts:

• Tree Damage: The egg-laying process can damage young trees, particularly newly planted ones. Covering young trees with netting during the emergence can help protect them.
• Noise Pollution: The loud buzzing of male cicadas can be disruptive, especially in densely populated areas.
• Pet Concerns: Some pets may be tempted to eat cicadas, which can cause stomach upset.
• Beneficial Effects:
  • Soil Aeration: As nymphs burrow, they aerate the soil.
  • Nutrient Cycling: When cicadas die, their bodies decompose, returning nutrients to the soil.
  • Food Source: Cicadas provide a food source for birds and other wildlife.

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So, get ready for the Michigan cicada! It's going to be quite the show, and hopefully, this article gave you a good heads-up about what to expect when the Michigan cicada arrives.