This year, Delta Pest Control Inc. is excited to guide you through a remarkable natural phenomenon that captivates Arkansas and neighboring regions. We’re on the cusp of witnessing a rare event in the natural world, where the past whispers to the present through the song of cicadas. As we delve into the mystery and beauty of these creatures, we invite you to explore what makes this event not just a spectacle but a learning opportunity about our environment and its cyclical wonders. Join us as we uncover the secrets of cicadas, from their unique life cycles to their impact on our surroundings, and learn how to coexist with these extraordinary insects.
How Rare Is This Natural Phenomenon?
2024 marks a rare natural event in Arkansas and surrounding states: the simultaneous emergence of two cicada broods, an occurrence last seen 221 years ago and not expected again until 2245. Both massive broods will emerge simultaneously, starting in mid-May and ending in late June.
Cicada Basics
Cicadas spend most of their lives underground, emerging only to mate and die. Their life cycles, typically 17 or 13 years, synchronize in a rare event that fills the summer air with their buzzing songs.
Why Is This Important?
While cicadas are harmless to humans, their sheer numbers can affect young trees and plants. Learning about their impact helps us prepare and protect our greenery without resorting to extensive pest control measures.
Dealing With Cicadas
There’s no need for widespread cicada treatment. Instead, Delta Pest Control Inc. recommends simple protective measures for young trees, such as netting, to prevent damage during this natural occurrence.
Be Aware of Potential Cicada Urine Propulsion
Amidst the awe of cicada emergences, there’s an unexpected phenomenon to be aware of: cicada urine propulsion. Despite their small size, cicadas possess a remarkable ability to expel fluids with significant force through tiny openings. While other xylem-feeding insects typically excrete urine in droplets, cicadas propel theirs with speeds reaching up to three meters per second, outpacing even a few larger animals! This unique behavior is due to the high volume of xylem consumed by cicadas, making droplet excretion energetically taxing. So, if you suddenly feel damp on a sunny day during cicada season, it might just be the result of a cicada’s high-speed urinary discharge from the treetops above.
Looking Ahead
This year’s cicada emergence is not just a curiosity but a reminder of nature’s complexity and timing. It’s an opportunity to observe and learn from a phenomenon that bridges centuries, offering insights into the natural world that surrounds us.
Join Delta Pest Control Inc. in embracing this extraordinary event, recognizing the cicadas’ emergence as a marvel of nature, and looking forward to what future generations might witness.
