Cicada Emergence 2024: Maps, Sightings, and Impact in Illinois and Beyond
Researchers are studying a rare dual emergence of 17-year and 13-year cycle cicadas at Macbride Recreation Area in Iowa, a phenomenon not seen in 220 years. The 2020 derecho's impact on the area could have significantly affected the cicada population, but careful conservation efforts have allowed for a dense emergence. Scientists are investigating the cicadas' advanced auditory systems and using their sounds for artistic projects.