Trillions' of cicada set to swarm northeastern US after 17 years underground

Cicadas in the northeastern US emerge after 17 years underground, where they feed on tree root sap. Upon surfacing, they live for about four weeks, primarily to mate. Males attract females with acoustic sounds, and females respond by snapping their wings. After mating, females lay hundreds of eggs on tree limbs. Once hatched, nymphs fall to the ground, burrow, and feed on tree roots for up to 17 years before emerging again.

How long do cicadas live underground before emerging?

• 5 years

• 20 years

• 10 years

• 17 years

What is the primary activity of cicadas after they emerge?

• Mating

• Migrating

• Hibernating

• Feeding

How do male cicadas attract females?

• By changing colors

• By clicking their abdomen to make sounds

• By dancing

• By emitting a scent

Where do female cicadas lay their eggs?

• In nests

• On tree limbs

• In water

• On the ground

What do cicada nymphs do after hatching?

• Fly away

• Burrow into the ground

• Stay on the tree

• Enter water