A bug's life
The news today: the 17-year cicada is emerging this year! But on further investigation: not *here*. Here's what I have learned:
There are 12 broods of 17-year cicadas and 3 broods of 13-year cicadas, staggered such that at least one emerges nearly every year in late May and June. Brood X is to emerge this year, covering much of the eastern U.S., but only goes as far northwest as Gary or so. Brood XIII is the one that we have in Chicago; it will emerge in 2007. Cicada populations tend to be largest in places with old trees, such as, oh, Irving Park? "Annual" cicadas come later in the summer and are the familiar ones that the dogs and birds love to snack on. They're not really annual, though - they live 2-8 years. They just aren't synchronized like the 17-year ones. None of the cicadas are harmful or destructive, and I've found a recipe book on-line that I will not be trying out.

So, looks like I'll have to wait three more years for a chance to get some cool pics of emerging and molting cicadas. Bummer.

Really really terrific Cicada website
- posted by Diane @ 9:36 AM