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But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
Why do cicadas come out every 17 years?
May 31, 2024
Trillions of cicadas emerge every 17 years, creating a fascinating natural spectacle! Discover how these insects survive underground for over a decade by feeding on tree juice. Learn why their collective emergence helps them evade predators. Listen in as experts explain the impact of cicadas on local bird populations and the surprising culinary potential of these protein-packed insects. Explore the unique metamorphosis of cicadas and the roles their distinctive sounds play in mating.
19:43
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Quick takeaways
- Cicadas emerge every 17 years as a survival strategy, using large numbers to overwhelm predators and ensure reproduction.
- The cicada life cycle, including stages from nymph to adult, highlights their fascinating adaptability and unique ecological role in nature.
Deep dives
Cicadas Unveiled: Nature's Marvel
Cicadas are fascinating insects that emerge in vast numbers every 13 or 17 years, creating a remarkable natural phenomenon. Their emergence is not just a spectacle but is believed to be an evolutionary adaptation to avoid predators by overwhelming them with sheer numbers. When billions of cicadas come out simultaneously, it enhances their chances of survival and reproduction, as predators cannot consume them all. This unique life cycle allows them to spend the majority of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots, before bursting forth to breed, often creating an unmissable and noisy spectacle.
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