The dreaded 17-year timer is up. If you have not heard, cicadas are coming out this year. Brood X will be emerging from the ground, bringing billions of cicadas this year in large swarms. This phenomenon of thousands of bugs appearing at once is what identifies the cicada as a satiation species, meaning that because of their huge numbers, the cicadas will collectively overwhelm all of their predators, ensuring that many of them will survive and be able to breed quickly. 

   Many are not ready for these red-eyed, inch-long, flying insects who release a mating call that can reach 100 decibels, which, in comparison, is as loud as a jet taking off. 

   But believe it or not, some consider cicadas as a delicacy. According to Jess Fanzo, a professor of global food and ethics at John Hopkins University, cicadas are often referred to as ”shrimp of the land” because of the familiar taste of shrimp, and they are also considered arthropods. Cicadas are featured in many meals such as ice cream, salads, and even ramen dishes. Cicadas offer a great source of protein, zinc, iron, and are low in fat. 

    Cicadas spend most of their time living in the ground and that cycle can last from two to five years. Some species like Brood x remain in the ground for up to 17 years. Mr. Geyer was a senior in high school during the last brood 17 years ago. He considers himself “not a huge bug fan” so he is not necessarily thrilled about Brood X. He remembers how during the last brood the bugs piled up, and “there were a lot of them–when you would drive down the street you would hear them crunch under your car.” 

   There will definitely be no shortage of cicadas, however, there is not much to fear. They do not have mouths so they can not bite or sting, but they do come in large numbers so be wary of leaving that car or garage door open. You may not want hundreds or thousands of cicadas in there.