Support Us Button Widget

Cicadas make an early appearance this spring

Expect to hear the cicada choir singing these next few months.

Cicada on a honeysuckle leaf.

The red-eyed bugs are expected to be spotted across the Southeast this spring + summer.

Photo by Martin LaBar

As the sun goes down, listen closely and you may hear the high-pitched buzzing of cicadas. The winged creatures aren’t due to emerge until 2024 — but it seems that some just can’t wait to arrive in Asheville.

Cicadas appear in our area in 13 and 17-year cycles. They surface in groups called broods that contain multiple species, cropping up at the same time. Although we’re seeing small numbers of cicadas popping up early this year, next spring will mark a historic emergence, due to both broods arriving simultaneously for the first time since 1803. “Predators should consider these early cicadas to be hors d’oeuvres compared to the massive emergence expected in 2024,” said Dr. Kritsky, dean of Behavioral and Natural Sciences at Mount St. Joseph University.

Interested in the early arrival of cicadas in our area? Help scientists track cicada movement with the Cicada Safari app. Upload photos of cicadas you find to be placed on a live map.

More from AVLtoday
This article is being updated daily to include information shared at Buncombe County community briefings.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the approaching holiday may be more difficult for many in our community — so here’s how to give back or find support.
Including gifts for neighbors, foodies, significant others, homebodies, students, and gifts under $20.
As the storm removed so many of the area’s trees, the annual Asheville GreenWorks event is undergoing a rebranding and an expansion.
Whether you’re looking for a spot to sit down on Turkey Day or cater a feast to eat at home, here are 20+ options to choose from.
After more than a month of work — here’s where we stand on repairing the local waterlines, treating the reservoir, and implementing a backup treatment plan.
Many local parks sustained significant damage during the storm, but restoration is forging ahead — Asheville Parks and Recreation gave us an update on where the city parks stand.
This article is being updated daily to include information shared at Buncombe County community briefings.
See how residents voted in this year’s general election, according to unofficial results.
Even as the community begins to get back on its feet, there are still plenty of resources for food, water, shelter, and more.