May 29, 2024 · Periodical cicadas spend many years underground preparing to emerge. In this article we'll learn about the 3 stages of the cicada life cycle.

Nearly all cicada species are annual cicadas with the exception of the few North American periodical cicada species, genus Magicicada, which in a given region emerge en masse every 13 or 17 years.

Nov 6, 2025 · This article explores the full life cycle of a cicada — from egg to adult — revealing how these insects survive, grow, and maintain nature’s delicate balance.

Jul 23, 2021 · There are over 3000 cicada species around the world, and most have similar life cycles. Cicada eggs are laid by female cicadas inside small tree branches. Six-eight weeks later, cicada …

Dec 10, 2025 · In what are among the longest life cycles of any insects, periodical cicadas emerge in spring only every 13 or 17 years, with millions of insects materializing from the soil in a matter of …

This graphic provides a brief summary of each of the cicada life cycle stages that are reviewed in more depth in the short video. Credit: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Aug 9, 2021 · Cicadas live most of their life underground, away from dangerous predators, and they go through multiple molts before emerging in spring. Because they lack the larval stage-specific to many …

Jan 30, 2022 · Once their new wings and body are ready, they can begin their brief adult life. Adult cicadas, also called imagoes, spend their time in trees looking for a mate. Males sing (or otherwise …

May 10, 2011 · Despite their name, annual cicadas generally live for two to five years, although some species may live longer. Additionally, their brood life cycles can overlap, meaning that every summer, …

Jul 15, 2025 · In this article, we will explore the various stages of a cicada’s life cycle, from egg to adult, highlighting key characteristics, timelines, and ecological significance.