News Summary
Billions of cicadas from Brood XIV are emerging in Southcentral Kentucky after 17 years underground. This phenomenon impacts 14 states, providing vital ecological benefits as cicadas decompose and enrich the soil. While they can cause minor damage to young trees, they pose no threat to humans. Their loud mating calls contribute to the seasonal atmosphere, making this event a fascinating spectacle for residents. The next emergence will not occur until 2042, with a significant multi-brood event anticipated in 2024.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Billions of cicadas are emerging in Southcentral Kentucky as Brood XIV makes its long-awaited return after a 17-year subterranean dormancy. This year’s emergence is remarkable, marking one of the largest cycles of cicadas in North America, impacting 14 states, including Kentucky and Indiana. As the temperatures of the soil reach around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, the ground will be filled with this distinct and noisy group of insects.
The cicadas belong to a species known as periodical cicadas, which spend approximately 99% of their lives in the nymph stage, buried underground. The emergence of Brood XIV is a unique phenomenon that brings these large populations to the surface to complete their life cycle above ground, which lasts about six weeks.
Male cicadas are particularly notable for their mating calls, which are produced by vibrating special membranes in their abdomens. This creates a loud, signature sound echoing through forests. Females respond by clicking the wings, adding to the orchestral atmosphere of cicada season. Despite their impressive vocal display, cicadas are not strong flyers; they can easily be caught or picked off branches, which makes them vulnerable to predators.
While cicadas can cause damage to young trees, particularly as they lay their eggs, they do not pose any danger to humans. They do not attack crops and pose little threat to the average citizen. Nursery owners and gardeners may take protective measures, such as enclosing young trees in netting to prevent cicada damage. However, most individuals can enjoy observing the cicadas without concern.
The ecological impact of cicadas is largely positive. As they emerge and later decompose, they contribute vital nutrients to the soil. They also serve as a significant food source for various predators, including birds, small mammals, and even fish. This influx of cicadas presents a boon for turkey hunters, as turkeys thrive during this time of abundance.
However, cicada outbreaks can have mixed effects on other wildlife. For instance, their emergence may lead to decreased nut production in trees, negatively impacting squirrel populations. This dynamic is a reminder of the complex interconnections in the ecosystem.
Looking to the future, the next emergence of Brood XIV will not be until 2042. Yet, before that, the 2024 emergence will be noteworthy, as it will see the simultaneous arrival of Broods XIII and XIX—a unique event that has not occurred since 1809.
For those in Kentucky, particularly in areas abundant in forests, the arrival of Brood XIV will be a significant natural event. This incredible emergence showcases an essential aspect of biodiversity and the life cycles of one of nature’s most fascinating insects. Residents can anticipate the sounds of cicadas resonating through their communities, a reminder of the intricate ecosystems that thrive in their backyards.
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Cicada Brood XIV Emerges
- Wikipedia: Cicada
- Spectrum News 1: Brood XIV Cicadas
- Google Search: Cicada Brood XIV
- WLKY: Map of Kentucky Cicadas Brood XIV
- Google Scholar: Cicada Emergence
- West Kentucky Star: Western End of State Left Out
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cicada
- LOU Today: Louisville Cicada History
- Google News: Cicada Emergence 2025
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
