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Georgia residents should prepare for a noisy spring in 2025 as Brood XIV, a group of 17-year periodical cicadas, is set to emerge across the state. This event marks the first appearance of these insects since 2008, promising a spectacle of nature that occurs less than once a generation.
The emergence of Brood XIV is anticipated to begin in late April to early May 2025, when soil temperatures 8 inches below the surface reach approximately 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Millions of cicadas will tunnel out of their underground homes, where they have been living for the past 17 years, creating a cacophony of noise as males call for potential mates.
Brood XIV cicadas are distinct from their annual counterparts:
- They have red eyes and smaller bodies than annual cicadas
- Their bodies are black with orange wing veins
- They emerge en masse as part of a complex evolutionary strategy
While Brood XIV will appear in 13 states across the eastern United States, Georgia is among the areas that will experience this natural phenomenon4. The cicadas are expected to be most prevalent in the northern half of the state, particularly in areas near hardwood forests.
The cicada emergence is expected to last several weeks, with the insects typically disappearing by late June. While their presence can be overwhelming due to their numbers and noise levels, cicadas are harmless to humans and pets. However, they may pose a slight risk to young trees during egg-laying.
Researchers are encouraging Georgia residents to participate in citizen science efforts by reporting cicada sightings. This data will help scientists track the emergence patterns and study potential impacts of environmental changes on cicada populations. As Georgia prepares for this rare event, residents can look forward to witnessing one of nature's most fascinating cyclical phenomena. The 2025 emergence of Brood XIV promises to be a memorable experience for those who appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
