Cicadas: The Noisy Insects That Emerge Every 17 Years

The largest group of cicadas, Brood X, is expected to emerge in 2023

Billions of cicadas are expected to emerge from the ground in the eastern United States in 2023.

Cicadas are insects that spend most of their lives underground, feeding on the roots of trees and other plants.

They emerge from the ground every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species.

When they emerge, they molt and then spend a few weeks above ground mating and laying eggs.

The nymphs, or baby cicadas, then hatch and burrow into the ground.

Cicadas are not harmful to humans, but they can be a nuisance because of their loud chirping noise.

The noise is made by the male cicadas to attract mates.

Cicadas are an important part of the ecosystem, and they play a role in the food chain.

They are eaten by birds, bats, and other animals.