Roughly 14 counties in Indiana are set to get broody and moody with the swarm of Brood XIV cicadas.
Don’t bug out — here are some quick facts about these fascinating creatures:
- Cicadas like to breed in oaks, willows, maples, and ash trees.
- They typically emerge once average soil temps reach 64° — Marion County’s five-day average now stands at 71.4°.
- Brood XIV (the second-largest periodical cicada brood) emerges every 17 years.
- The sounds you hear? Yeah, that’s all the males talking.
- Ecological benefits of cicadas include natural aeration for soil, tree pruning, and contribution of nitrogen and nutrients to the soil after decaying.
Buzzing to see these insects up close? These physical differences can help you differentiate a Brood XIV cicada from an annual one:
- Brood XIV: Red eyes, black body, and orange/rust-colored wings
- Annual: Greenish markings, black eyes
Southern Indiana counties will have a higher likelihood of seeing Brood XIV cicadas — but don’t worry, our annual friends will be on their way soon, too.
Think you’ve spotted a Brood XIV bug? You can help Cicada Safari map these sightings by downloading the free app and submitting photos. Pro tip: Look for cicadas where there are trees, full sun, and low vegetation.
