This year marks an extraordinary event in the natural world as billions of cicadas emerge simultaneously in parts of the United States, including Arkansas.
These remarkable insects, known for their distinctive buzzing calls, will emerge by the masses due to the convergence of two distinct broods: one that emerges every 17 years and another every 13 years. This synchronicity is a rare occurrence, with the last time it happened being 221 years ago.
Cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground feeding on tree roots. When conditions are right, typically involving a combination of temperature and soil moisture, the nymphs emerge from the ground in large numbers, shed their exoskeletons, and transform into winged adults. This synchronized emergence often leads to a dramatic increase in cicada populations in affected areas.
Arkansas is one of the fortunate states experiencing this phenomenon, offering residents and visitors a unique opportunity to witness this natural marvel. The emergence of cicadas is not only a natural spectacle but also serves important ecological roles. Cicadas provide a food source for various predators, including birds, mammals, and even some insects. Additionally, their emergence can have effects on nutrient cycling and plant growth in affected ecosystems.