If you have ever heard or seen a cicada or thousands of cicadas, it's something you'll talk about. I can pinpoint exactly where I was 17 years ago when their mating calls were deafening. Wendy and I were in Virginia doing a some sight-seeing at Ash Lawn, home of President James Monroe.
As we drove up the tree-lined driveway, we heard a cacophony (I love that word) that grabbed our attention. It was the 90 decibel mating buzz of the male cicadas trying to get the attention of the females. I don't know about those girls, but it sure did pique the interest of these chicks!
As soon as the temperature reaches a steady 64 degrees about 8 inches underground, they start to emerge. They moult and leave their exoskeleton sitting behind as they go off on their mating mission. I see one or two of these eerie skeletons each summer, but you can bet there will be billions to be found this year. I think some kid with a camera could make a great video of cicadas taking over the world...LOL! |
You can count on me to take some photos of those skeletons that I find! Until I see or hear the first one, I'll enjoy my quiet spring and summer.