Billions of cicadas from Brood XIV are set to emerge across 13 states, including parts of New York, this spring, according to Gene Kritsky of the Cicada Safari project. These insects, which live underground for 17 years, were last seen in 2008.
Brood XIV cicadas will surface when soil temperatures hit 64°F, starting mid-April in Georgia and later in states like Ohio and Pennsylvania. New York’s sightings are expected near Long Island and New York City, although the population may be smaller due to past droughts.
Only male cicadas produce their infamous loud calls, which can reach 102 decibels. After mating, they die, leaving behind eggs that hatch weeks later. Residents can document sightings via the Cicada Safari app.
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