CICADAS: What to know and expect in 2025

Photo credits: nwf.org

It’s that time of year again: spring is in full swing, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining—and the cicadas are back.

In 2025, over millions of cicadas are expected to emerge in New Jersey. These cicadas belong to Brood XIV (commonly known as Brood 14), the newest brood of periodical cicadas that will appear across the eastern United States. Over billions may emerge over the next couple of months, spread across other states like New York, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania, according to Time magazine.

Periodical cicadas come up from underground every 13 to 19 years, depending on the species and brood. The emergence of these cicadas marks a special time in their cycle of life, marking the time to start mating and reproducing, leading to a new generation of cicadas.

Although it’s hard to pinpoint when exactly the cicadas will appear, experts suggest late April to early May for the warmer states. Cicadas come out when the soil reaches 64 degrees Fahrenheit, lasting only for a couple of weeks and eventually fading out. Although the lifespan for these cicadas only lasts about 6 weeks, with the high numbers that are expected to emerge, many say these broods could stay above ground for months.

Aboveground, the majority of cicadas live in trees and shrubs, settling around wooded, dense areas to mate and nest. However, they’re still likely to be seen in suburban or urban areas, particularly in places with green spaces and many trees. This includes many West-Windsor and Mercer County neighborhoods and residential areas.

Despite the increasing number of cicadas, they aren’t threatening. Cicadas are pretty easy to spot; they’re quite large insects, ranging from 1-2.5 inches, with thick, sturdy bodies that are accompanied by their four long wings. These insects are often brown with green variations, and can be distinguished quite easily out in the open. Cicadas are most easily identified by their sound. You’ll be able to recognize them from their loud buzzing that strongly resembles a power line hum.

Don’t fret - these cicadas pose no harm to the environment or humans. They’re a natural part of the ecosystem, says John Cooley, a biologist at the University of Connecticut. They’ve never caused any damage to their surroundings, and likely won’t impact us humans (as long as you’re willing to get a pair of earplugs).

So, prepare for this year’s Cicada-geddon. This spring’s about to get loud.