Cicadas are fascinating creatures that can be both beautiful and annoying. Their loud, incessant singing can drive people crazy, and their sheer numbers can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for a way to get rid of cicadas without harming them, there are a few things you can do.
First, try to identify the type of cicada that you’re dealing with. There are two main types of cicadas: annual cicadas and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas emerge every year, while periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years. If you know what type of cicada you’re dealing with, you can better target your efforts.
If you’re dealing with annual cicadas, you can try to reduce their numbers by removing their breeding grounds. Cicadas lay their eggs in the ground, so by removing any potential breeding grounds, you can help to reduce their population. You can also try to trap adult cicadas by placing a sticky trap near their favorite feeding spots.
Cicada Life Cycle and Behavior
Cicadas are fascinating insects that spend most of their lives underground as nymphs. They emerge from the ground as adults only once every 13 or 17 years. During this short time, they mate and lay eggs before dying.
Nymphal Stage
Cicadas spend most of their lives as nymphs, living underground and feeding on the roots of trees and other plants. Nymphs are wingless and have a hard exoskeleton. They molt several times as they grow, and their exoskeletons become increasingly larger and harder.
The nymphal stage can last anywhere from 2 to 17 years, depending on the species of cicada. During this time, nymphs feed and grow until they are ready to emerge as adults.
Adult Stage
When cicadas are ready to emerge as adults, they dig their way out of the ground and climb up trees. They then shed their nymphal exoskeleton and emerge as winged adults.
Adult cicadas are large, noisy insects with black or brown bodies and clear wings. They have large eyes and a long, pointed beak. Cicadas feed on the sap of trees, and they are known for their loud, buzzing song.
Male cicadas use their song to attract females, and the females respond by laying eggs in the twigs of trees. Cicadas only live for a few weeks as adults, and they die after they have mated and laid eggs.
Brood X
Brood X is a particularly large brood of cicadas that emerges in the eastern United States every 17 years. The next emergence of Brood X is expected to occur in 2024.
Brood X is one of the largest broods of cicadas in the world, and it is estimated to contain over 1 trillion individual cicadas. When Brood X emerges, it can be a nuisance to humans, as the cicadas can be noisy and they can damage trees by laying their eggs in the twigs.
Identifying Cicada Species
Physical Characteristics
Different cicada species exhibit unique physical traits. Brood II cicadas, for instance, are robust insects with an average length of 1.5 to 2 inches. They boast black bodies with red-veined wings, marked by transparent or milky splotches. Annual cicadas, on the other hand, are smaller and usually have transparent wings without any distinctive patterns. Some species, such as dog-day cicadas, display vibrant green or yellow bodies.
Habitat and Behavior
Cicada species often inhabit specific environments. Seventeen-year cicadas favor forests, while 13-year cicadas prefer meadows and grasslands. Annual cicadas are more adaptable and can be found in various habitats, including both forests and open areas. Moreover, each species has its distinct mating call, which can be a useful identifying factor. Brood II cicadas, for example, produce a high-pitched, repetitive sound, while annual cicadas emit a softer, more melodious call.
Geographic Distribution
Cicada species are distributed across different geographic regions. Brood II cicadas are primarily found in the eastern United States, while 13-year cicadas inhabit the southeastern United States. Annual cicadas have a wider distribution and can be found in many parts of the world. Understanding the geographic range of a particular species can aid in its identification.
| Species | Size | Wing Color | Body Color | Habitat | Geographic Distribution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brood II Cicada | 1.5-2 inches | Black with red veins | Transparent or milky splotches | Forests | Eastern United States |
| 13-Year Cicada | 1-1.5 inches | Transparent with black or brown veins | Brown or black | Meadows and grasslands | Southeastern United States |
| Annual Cicada | 0.5-1 inch | Transparent or slightly tinted | Green, yellow, or black | Forests and open areas | Worldwide distribution |
Deterrents and Repellents
Cicadas can leave your yard if you make it less attractive to them. Here are some tips to keep them away:
Physical Barriers
Create a physical barrier around your plants and trees using materials like chicken wire or netting. This will prevent cicadas from accessing them and laying their eggs.
Chemical Repellents
Use chemical repellents specifically designed to deter cicadas. These products typically contain ingredients that are unpleasant to the insects, such as pyrethroids or permethrins. Follow the instructions carefully when applying these repellents to avoid harming your plants or pets.
Natural Repellents
Some natural substances have been shown to repel cicadas. These include:
| Substance | Application |
|---|---|
| Garlic | Crush garlic cloves and sprinkle them around the base of plants. |
| Citrus Peels | Scatter citrus peels around your yard. |
| Peppermint Oil | Dilute peppermint oil with water and spray it around the perimeter of your property. |
Prevention Methods
1. Control the Environment
Keep your lawn healthy and weed-free to reduce the number of potential cicada egg-laying sites. Remove dead leaves and other debris that may provide shelter for cicadas.
2. Use Repellents
Certain scents, such as orange oil, peppermint oil, and vinegar, are known to repel cicadas. Apply these repellents around your home, patio, and garden to discourage them from entering.
3. Protect Trees and Shrubs
Wrap the trunks of young trees and shrubs with burlap or netting to prevent cicadas from laying eggs on them. This is especially important for fruit trees and other valuable plants.
4. Trap Adult Cicadas
Use sticky traps or light traps to catch adult cicadas. Place these traps around your property to reduce the number of cicadas that can reproduce and lay eggs.
5. Biological Control
Consider introducing natural predators of cicadas, such as birds, wasps, and praying mantises. These predators can help to control cicada populations over time.
| Predator | Effectiveness |
|---|---|
| Birds | High |
| Wasps | Moderate |
| Praying Mantises | Moderate |
Natural Predators and Parasites
Cicadas have a variety of natural predators and parasites that help control their populations. Among these are:
Birds
Birds such as crows, blackbirds, and starlings are known to prey on cicadas. They will often perch on branches and wait for cicadas to emerge from the ground before swooping down to catch them.
Mammals
Small mammals such as raccoons, opossums, and squirrels will also eat cicadas. They will often dig up cicada nymphs from the ground or search for them in trees.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Reptiles such as snakes and lizards will also eat cicadas. Amphibians such as frogs and toads will also eat cicada nymphs.
Parasites
Cicadas can also be parasitized by a variety of fungi, bacteria, and viruses. These parasites can weaken cicadas and make them more susceptible to predators.
Examples of Cicada Predators
| Predator | Description |
|---|---|
| Birds | Crows, blackbirds, starlings |
| Mammals | Raccoons, opossums, squirrels |
| Reptiles | Snakes, lizards |
| Amphibians | Frogs, toads |
| Parasites | Fungi, bacteria, viruses |
Chemical Control
While chemical control methods are effective in eliminating large populations of cicadas, they should only be employed as a last resort due to potential environmental and health concerns.
Various types of chemical insecticides can be used, such as:
- Organophosphates
- Carbamates
- Pyrethroids
Before applying any chemical, carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dosage, application method, and safety precautions.
7. Targeted Chemical Application
To minimize environmental impact and maximize effectiveness, target the application of chemicals to areas where cicadas are concentrated, such as trees, shrubs, and lawn edges.
Use trunk injections or soil drenching methods to directly treat infected plants without affecting non-target organisms. Spot treatments can also be used to eliminate cicadas in localized areas.
It’s important to note that chemical treatments can be harmful to beneficial insects, such as pollinators. Choose products specifically designed for cicada control and avoid applying them during peak pollination periods.
| Chemical Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Organophosphates | Fast-acting, effective against a wide range of insects | Toxic to humans and wildlife, can cause environmental contamination |
| Carbamates | Less toxic than organophosphates, effective against immature cicadas | Shorter residual activity than organophosphates |
| Pyrethroids | Low toxicity to humans and wildlife, effective against adult cicadas | Can be less effective against immature cicadas |
Environmental Considerations
While it may be tempting to take drastic measures to get rid of cicadas, it is important to consider the potential environmental consequences before doing so. Cicadas are an important part of the ecosystem, and their emergence and reproduction every 13 or 17 years is a natural phenomenon that provides numerous benefits.
Wildlife and Pollinators
Cicadas are a major food source for many animals, including birds, bats, and squirrels. Their emergence also coincides with the peak of wildflower blooming, providing an essential source of food for pollinators like bees.
Soil Aeration
Cicada nymphs spend several years underground before emerging as adults. During this time, they burrow and tunnel, which helps to aerate the soil and improve drainage.
Nutrient Cycling
When cicadas die, their bodies decompose and return nutrients to the soil. This process helps to fertilize plants and supports the overall health of the ecosystem.
Carbon Sequestration
Cicada exoskeletons contain a high amount of chitin, a biodegradable material that helps to sequester carbon from the atmosphere.
Health and Safety Precautions
1. Wear protective clothing
When working outdoors around cicadas, wear long sleeves, pants, and gloves to protect your skin from bites.
2. Use insect repellent
Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin to deter cicadas from biting.
3. Watch for allergic reactions
Cicada bites can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you experience swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
4. Avoid contact with cicada exoskeletons
Cicada exoskeletons can be sharp and may cause cuts or irritation if handled carelessly.
5. Keep pets away from cicadas
Cicadas can be poisonous to pets if ingested. Keep pets indoors or on a leash when cicadas are present.
6. Avoid using pesticides
Pesticides can harm beneficial insects and birds that feed on cicadas. Avoid using them unless absolutely necessary.
7. Check for cicadas before driving
Cicadas can gather on roads and can be slippery if stepped on. Be cautious when driving during cicada season.
8. Be aware of falling cicadas
Cicadas can fall from trees and sidewalks, especially during the period when they are emerging from underground. Watch for falling cicadas and avoid walking under them.
9. Be patient
Cicadas will eventually emerge and die off on their own. Be patient and avoid using harmful methods to get rid of them. The following table provides additional precautions to consider when dealing with cicadas:
| Precaution | Reason |
|---|---|
| Avoid using high-pressure water to remove cicadas | High-pressure water can damage plants and vegetation |
| Be cautious when mowing lawns during cicada season | Cicadas can be crushed and release a foul odor |
| Clean up dead cicadas promptly | Dead cicadas can attract pests and spread disease |
How To Get Cicadas To Leave
Cicadas are a type of insect that is known for their loud, piercing calls. While they are generally harmless, they can be a nuisance when they are in large numbers. If you are looking for ways to get rid of cicadas, there are a few things you can do.
One way to get rid of cicadas is to remove their food source. Cicadas feed on the sap of trees, so if you can make it difficult for them to access this food source, they will be more likely to leave. You can do this by pruning your trees and removing any dead or dying branches. You can also apply a sealant to the trunks of your trees to make it more difficult for cicadas to burrow into them.
Another way to get rid of cicadas is to use pesticides. There are a number of different pesticides that are effective against cicadas, but it is important to read the label carefully before using any of them. Some pesticides can be harmful to humans and pets, so it is important to take precautions when using them.
If you are not comfortable using pesticides, there are a number of other ways to get rid of cicadas. You can try trapping them in a jar or bag, or you can vacuum them up. You can also try using a hose to spray them off of your plants. If you are patient, you can eventually get rid of all of the cicadas in your yard.
People Also Ask About How To Get Cicadas To Leave
How To Get Rid Of Cicadas Naturally?
There are a number of natural ways to get rid of cicadas. You can try trapping them in a jar or bag, or you can vacuum them up. You can also try using a hose to spray them off of your plants. If you are patient, you can eventually get rid of all of the cicadas in your yard.
How To Keep Cicadas Away From My House?
There are a few things you can do to keep cicadas away from your house. One way is to remove their food source. Cicadas feed on the sap of trees, so if you can make it difficult for them to access this food source, they will be more likely to leave. You can do this by pruning your trees and removing any dead or dying branches. You can also apply a sealant to the trunks of your trees to make it more difficult for cicadas to burrow into them.
Another way to keep cicadas away from your house is to use pesticides. There are a number of different pesticides that are effective against cicadas, but it is important to read the label carefully before using any of them.
How To Make Cicadas Less Noisy?
There are a few things you can do to make cicadas less noisy. One way is to create a white noise machine. You can do this by using a fan, air conditioner, or white noise app. The white noise will help to drown out the sound of the cicadas.
Another way to make cicadas less noisy is to use earplugs. Earplugs can help to block out the sound of the cicadas and make it easier to sleep. You can also try using a sleep mask to block out the light and make it easier to fall asleep.
