Cicadas Return After Years – How To Plan Your Next Wilderness
Have you ever stepped out of your campervan into a wall of sound so loud it vibrates in your chest? For those who spend their lives in the great outdoors, nature often surprises us with rhythms that defy our standard calendars.
When cicadas return after years of dormancy, they transform quiet forest trails and peaceful campsites into buzzing, biological spectacles. Understanding these periodic events helps you plan your trips effectively rather than being caught off guard by the sudden explosion of insect activity.
In this guide, we will explore how these massive emergences impact your camping, hiking, and homesteading plans. We’ll look at the practical steps you can take to keep your gear clean and your outdoor experience enjoyable despite the noise.
Table of Contents
Understanding Why Cicadas Return After Years
The phenomenon of periodical cicadas is one of nature’s most fascinating survival strategies. These insects spend 13 or 17 years underground, feeding on tree root xylem, before emerging in synchronized swarms to mate.
This long wait is an evolutionary trick called predator satiation. By emerging in such massive numbers simultaneously, they overwhelm local predators like birds, squirrels, and small mammals.
Because the predators cannot possibly eat them all, a vast majority of the cicadas survive long enough to lay eggs. For the outdoor adventurer, this means that every decade or so, your favorite patch of woods might host millions of these insects.
Managing Your Campsite During a Cicada Emergence
If your travel itinerary happens to coincide with a brood emergence, you might notice a sudden shift in the local ecosystem. While these insects are harmless—they do not bite or sting—they can be a nuisance for campers.
First, adjust your expectations regarding sound. The mating calls can reach levels equivalent to a lawnmower or a jet engine. If you are a light sleeper, consider packing high-quality earplugs or a white noise machine for your RV or tent.
Protecting Your Gear and Vehicle
Cicadas are not particularly graceful fliers, and they often bump into structures, vehicles, and people. When parked in an affected area, keep your RV windows closed and use screens on your vents.
If you are tent camping, keep your rainfly zipped tight when you are not inside. This simple habit prevents you from coming back to a sleeping area filled with curious insects that found their way in through an open flap.
Hiking and Wildlife Safety
When cicadas return after years, the entire food web reacts. You will often see an increase in activity among local predators that are taking advantage of this temporary, high-protein buffet.
Expect to see more turkeys, snakes, and even larger mammals like foxes or raccoons roaming closer to trails than usual. This is a great time for nature photography, but keep your distance and practice standard Leave No Trace principles.
Trail Etiquette and Cleanliness
Trails may become slippery in areas with high concentrations of insect carcasses. Wear hiking boots with good tread to maintain your footing on forest floors covered in biological debris.
Additionally, avoid using strong scents or perfumes while hiking. While cicadas aren’t attracted to human scents, other scavengers drawn to the area might be more curious than usual.
Homesteading and Gardening Considerations
For those of you managing a homestead, the primary concern during an emergence is the health of young trees. Female cicadas lay their eggs in small, pencil-sized twigs, which can cause the tips of branches to break off.
This process is called flagging. While it is rarely fatal to mature, healthy trees, it can be detrimental to newly planted saplings or fragile ornamental shrubs.
Protecting Your Plants
- Use fine netting: Wrap young trees in cheesecloth or specialized insect netting during the peak emergence weeks.
- Wait on planting: If you know a brood is emerging in your region, delay planting new fruit trees until the following season.
- Pruning: If you see heavy damage, prune the affected tips after the cicadas have finished their cycle to help the tree heal properly.
Navigating the Experience as a Traveler
If you find yourself in the middle of a massive emergence, don’t let it ruin your trip. Instead, lean into the experience as a rare opportunity to witness a significant biological event.
Many outdoor enthusiasts consider themselves lucky to see this cycle. Keep your camera ready, as the molting process—where the cicadas shed their nymph skins—is a remarkable sight for children and adults alike.
When to Adjust Your Plans
If the sound or the sheer volume of insects becomes too overwhelming for your comfort, be prepared to relocate. Part of the beauty of vanlife or RV travel is the ability to shift your location by a few hundred miles.
Check local entomology reports or state park websites before you head out. These resources often provide maps of where the insects are most active, allowing you to choose a different trail or campground if you prefer a quieter environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cicadas Return After Years
Are these insects dangerous to my pets?
Generally, no. While they aren’t toxic, eating a large volume of them can cause an upset stomach or digestive blockage in some dogs. Keep an eye on your pets while they are off-leash to ensure they aren’t snacking on them constantly.
Do I need special equipment to deal with the noise?
You don’t need specialized gear, but bringing along noise-canceling headphones or earplugs will significantly improve your sleep quality if you are camping in a high-density area.
How long does the emergence last?
The entire cycle usually lasts about four to six weeks. Once the adult cicadas mate and lay their eggs, they die, and the noise level drops significantly until the next cycle begins.
Will they damage my RV or car?
They won’t damage the structure, but they can clog radiator grilles and air intakes. Periodically check your vehicle’s front intake and clear away any debris to ensure your engine runs cool during your travels.
Final Thoughts on Embracing Nature’s Cycles
Witnessing a major insect emergence is a reminder of how vast and complex the natural world truly is. When cicadas return after years, they serve as a living clock, marking time in a way that modern technology never could.
By preparing your gear, managing your expectations, and understanding the ecology behind the event, you can turn a potentially disruptive situation into a highlight of your outdoor journey.
Stay curious, keep your gear maintained, and don’t let a little extra noise stop you from exploring the wonders of the wild. Stay safe and stay comfortable out there!
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