Wayyyyyyy-oh! We're Half Way There!

We are now about a month into the 2024 magicicada emergence, in the forest preserves! So far there have been over 500 observations of periodical cicada added to the project. Let's discuss what we've learned so far.

1. Periodical cicadas are spreading. Natural dispersal is slow, since cicadas are not great fliers, but is certainly evident. From 2007 to 2024, cicadas are being found 3 to 5 miles further west, and have expanded north by 2 to 3 miles. We have confirmed periodical cicadas in nearly every forest preserve across DuPage County. The two properties where magicicada are not present; Dunham forest preserve and James 'Pate' Philip State Park.

2. Decula cicadas are not easy to identify. Read our journal post on why M. septendecula observations are under heavy review.
   https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/fpddc-cicada-adventures-2024/journal/95897-decula-dilemma

3. Massospora infections are concentrated. The occurrence of M. cicadina - also known as "flying saltshaker fungus" - is really concentrated in the eastern portion of DuPage County. In 2007, District staff observed Massospora only at Maple Grove forest preserve, however, this year's hotspot is Fullersburg Woods forest preserve in Oak Brook. There has been sightings at Maple Grove and Waterfall Glen forest preserves as well. However, there have been three sightings in the center of the county, evidence that the fungus was dispersed during the 2007 emergence.
4. People are fascinated by periodical cicadas! We have hosted three Cicada Adventures programs and each was well attended. Over 230 people visited Fullersburg Woods and St. James Farm forest preserves to learn about cicadas and take guided hikes. Some were repeat visitors, like iNaturalist member @ashley__miller_ while others travelled great distances to learn about cicadas! A couple drove all the way from Sioux Falls, SD to experience the emergence. A visitor hopped on the AmTrak on Friday, departing from New Hampshire, to make it to the Saturday program at St. James! A father and son visiting from England made the third program a must-do on their itinerary across America. Thanks for all who attended!

It looks like we are past the peak of the brood XIII emergence. We are finding oviposited eggs on branches, dead cicadas beneath trees, and a notable drop in decibel levels. Nevertheless, keep looking for cicadas! We're still hoping to find the latest emergence date (see if you can find a freshly emerged 'white' cicada) and we're keeping any eye on the latest singing date. Because the emergence is still rolling, this project will be extended into July.

Posted on June 18, 2024 02:19 PM by naturalist_glenn