Cicada

About

How cicada lives

Cicadas spend long periods underground as nymphs before emerging to sing, mate, and lay eggs. Some periodical cicadas emerge in synchronized cycles lasting 13 or 17 years. Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Stable populations still depend on habitat quality, food availability, and low human pressure. Protecting cicada also depends on keeping forest, grassland habitats healthy and connected.

Common species still depend on habitat quality, clean water, food webs, and low disturbance.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Some periodical cicadas emerge in synchronized cycles lasting 13 or 17 years.
• Insects are among the most diverse animals on Earth, filling roles from pollination to decomposition.
• Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.
• Stable populations still depend on habitat quality, food availability, and low human pressure.