Cicadas are indeed found throughout Georgia. Their presence can range from the familiar sounds of summer to less frequent, yet more dramatic, mass emergences.
Types of Cicadas in Georgia
Georgia is home to two primary categories of cicadas: annual cicadas and periodical cicadas. Annual cicadas, also known as “dog-day cicadas,” are a common sight and sound each summer. These insects typically have green or black bodies and appear yearly, with overlapping life cycles ensuring some adults emerge every season. They are widespread across the state, contributing to the familiar buzzing of late summer.
Periodical cicadas, in contrast, emerge in synchronized 13 or 17-year cycles. These cicadas are visually distinct, often characterized by black bodies, striking red eyes, and clear wings with orange tints. Unlike annual cicadas, which emerge in smaller, consistent numbers, periodical cicadas are known for their massive, localized emergences, where millions can appear simultaneously in specific areas. This synchronized emergence is a survival strategy, overwhelming predators and ensuring species continuation.
When and Where Cicadas Emerge
Annual cicadas typically emerge in Georgia from late June through September, with their characteristic sounds heard statewide in trees and wooded areas. Cicada emergence is often triggered when soil temperatures at an 8-inch depth consistently reach 64 degrees Fahrenheit.
Periodical cicada emergences in Georgia are tied to specific broods and occur less frequently. For instance, Brood XIX, also known as the Great Southern Brood, has a 13-year life cycle and is considered the largest periodical cicada brood by geographic extent. This brood last emerged in parts of Georgia in 2024, affecting approximately 75 counties, including areas in Central Georgia. The next emergence for Brood XIX in Georgia is anticipated in 2037.
Another significant emergence expected in Georgia is Brood XIV, a 17-year periodical cicada. This brood last appeared in 2008 and is projected to re-emerge in 2025, primarily in northern Georgia counties such as Fannin, Lumpkin, Rabun, and Union.
Understanding Their Presence
The most noticeable aspect of cicada activity is the loud buzzing or clicking sounds. This noise is primarily made by male cicadas vibrating membranes on their abdomens to attract mates. The collective sound can be quite intense, sometimes reaching noise levels comparable to a vacuum cleaner or over 90 decibels.
Cicadas are generally harmless to humans and pets. They do not bite or sting, are not poisonous, and do not transmit diseases. While pets might consume cicadas, which could lead to a temporary upset stomach, this typically poses no serious health risk. For plants, periodical cicadas can cause minor cosmetic damage to young trees when females lay eggs in small branches, a phenomenon known as “flagging.” However, this damage is largely superficial for mature, established trees and can act as a natural pruning process.
The adult lifespan of cicadas above ground is relatively short, lasting only three to six weeks. After mating and egg-laying, the adult cicadas die, and the cycle continues underground with their offspring. Cicadas are often mistakenly called “locusts,” but they are entirely different insects. Cicadas are true bugs that feed on tree sap and do not swarm or destroy crops like true locusts (a type of grasshopper).