Cicadas Set to Invade MI After Spending 17 Years Underground

Michigan was one of the lucky states in 2020 that didn't have to worry about murder hornets but it's now 2021 and we're about to get invaded by cicadas.

First off if you're not familiar with cicadas Merriam-Webster defines it as

...insects which have a stout body, wide blunt head, and large transparent wings...

Male cicadas are known for a loud "singing" noise they make to attract females. The females lay their eggs inside stems and twigs of trees. When they hatch, the baby insect falls into the grounds soil where it feeds onto the roots of trees.

These bugs lay dormant underground for 17 years before emerging again in masses. In an article from May 2020 from Michigan State University, the last time cicadas were in Michigan was in 2004 meaning this is the year they'll be back. I'm terrified already.

However, Gary Parsons, an entomologist with MSU, says while annoying these insects pose no harm to humans or wildlife. They do not bite and they will not enter homes (unless by accident) but you will see them swarming outdoors in parks, neighborhoods, and wooded areas.

Periodical cicadas are also known to be one of the longest-living insects in the world with a lifespan of 13 or 17 years, and they've been around for millions of years. The broods in the north live 17 while the ones in the south live to be 13. The one that will be popping up in Michigan is the Brood X (10) -- the only [periodical] brood found in the state. It's also the largest and most widespread one in the U.S., because of course.

Annual cicadas are also a thing. These are the ones that come out every year, but not in the millions like the periodical ones. These cicadas are the most common ones in Michigan and you likely hear the males singing every summer. Annual cicadas have a lifespan of only 3 to 4 years.

The Brood X cicadas will come out of hibernation around May or June, specifically when the temperature hits around 64 degrees.