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The Earth Will Feast on Dead Cicadas
Mar 29, 2024
Two rare cicada broods are emerging in sync after 221 years, creating a feast for birds, trees, and dirt. Learn about their life cycle, ecological role, flight range, and impact on the environment. Discover how citizen scientists are tracking their emergence and the energy release and ecosystem impact of these fascinating creatures.
07:59
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Quick takeaways
- Two cicada broods on 13-year and 17-year cycles are synchronizing after 221 years, providing a rare feeding frenzy for predators.
- Periodical cicadas' overwhelming abundance diverts predator attention, enriches soil with nutrient-rich corpses, and benefits ecosystem balance.
Deep dives
The Unique Spectacle of Periodical Cicadas in Central Illinois
Central Illinois is gearing up for a remarkable event as two broods of periodical cicadas, emerging on a 13-year and a 17-year cycle, are set to swarm together after over two centuries. These inch-long adults dig out en masse for a month-long summer mating frenzy, laying eggs in forest trees before perishing, kickstarting a new cycle. The emergence generates a feeding frenzy for predators like birds, raccoons, and dogs, offering a novel food source. With entomologists and enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the event, the spectacle promises to be a memorable natural phenomenon.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode