THE CICADAS ARE COMING!

Cicadas are unique insects that spend most of their lives underground, emerging in large swarms every 13 or 17 years. They are often mistaken for locusts but are distinct in their lifecycle and behavior. Periodical cicadas, found only in the U.S., synchronize their emergence to overwhelm predators, a strategy known as predator satiation. Their lifecycle involves emerging, mating, and dying within weeks, ensuring survival and reproduction. This strategy also affects predator populations, like birds, which spike and crash in response to cicada emergence.

What is a key difference between cicadas and locusts?

• Cicadas belong to a different family of insects.

• Cicadas are a type of locust.

• Cicadas are found only in Africa.

• Cicadas are smaller than locusts.

How often do periodical cicadas emerge?

• Every 20 years

• Every 13 or 17 years

• Every 5 years

• Every 10 years

What triggers cicadas to emerge from the ground?

• A change in temperature

• The availability of food

• A hormone trigger

• The presence of predators

What is the primary purpose of the cicada's life cycle?

• To control bird populations

• To migrate to new areas

• To feed on crops

• To survive and reproduce

How do cicadas ensure their survival against predators?

• By flying quickly

• By changing colors

• By hiding underground

• Through predator satiation