Cicadas are masters of patience, in fact most of their lives are spent underground, hidden from view. As nymphs, they burrow beneath the surface and feed on the sap from tree and plant roots. This phase can last from a few years to nearly two decades, depending on the species. Some of the best known are the periodical cicadas, which stay underground for 13 or 17 years before emerging in massive numbers.

This long development period serves a purpose. By living underground for so long, cicadas avoid many surface-level predators. When they finally emerge, it happens all at once, often in overwhelming numbers, which ensures that enough will survive to mate and continue the cycle.

Emergence and Transformation

When the temperature is just right, usually when the soil reaches about 18 degrees Celsius or 64 degrees Fahrenheit, the nymphs tunnel out of the ground. They climb onto trees or other surfaces and shed their exoskeletons in a process called molting. What remains is a fully formed adult with delicate wings and bulging eyes. These adults live for only a few weeks, but in that short time, they have one crucial mission, to reproduce.

The buzzing chorus that fills the summer air is created entirely by male cicadas. They produce their song using tymbals, thin, ridged membranes located on the sides of their abdomens. By rapidly contracting muscles attached to these tymbals, they create vibrations that amplify through their mostly hollow bodies. The result is a loud, rhythmic buzz that can be heard from far away.

Each species of cicada has its own distinct call. This ensures that males attract females of the same species and helps prevent crossbreeding. The songs also help males stake out territory and warn off rivals. The loudest cicadas can reach noise levels comparable to a rock concert. Yet to many, this sound is not annoying but iconic. It signals that summer is in full swing.

Why August?

So why does this buzzing peak in August? Cicadas are cold-blooded, meaning their body temperature is influenced by the environment. Their singing muscles work only when it is warm enough, typically above 22 degrees Celsius or 72 degrees Fahrenheit. August provides the right combination of long days, high temperatures, and consistent humidity that triggers and sustains their activity.

Many cicada species also time their emergence for late summer to ensure that they are not competing with other insect populations that may have peaked earlier in the season. This strategic timing helps them increase their chances of successful mating.

Rainfall and Climate Triggers

While temperature is a key trigger, rainfall also plays an important role. Heavy rains soften the soil, making it easier for nymphs to dig their way to the surface. In regions that experience drought or inconsistent rain patterns, cicada emergence may be delayed or reduced. Conversely, after a wet season, populations can explode in both number and volume.

Climate change is beginning to influence these cycles. Warmer winters and unpredictable rainfall can cause premature or staggered emergences, which could disrupt the delicate balance cicadas rely on to survive and thrive.

Cultural Meaning and Emotional Impact

Cicadas are more than insects. They hold deep cultural meaning in many societies. In Japan, cicadas are considered symbols of summer, impermanence, and rebirth. Their voices are part of the ambient soundtrack in anime, poetry, and literature. In ancient Greece, they were associated with music and immortality. Even today, their sudden appearance and intense songs evoke a mix of nostalgia, wonder, and curiosity.

For some people, the sound of cicadas is calming and familiar. For others, it sparks questions about the natural world and how such small creatures can make such a big impact.

For educators, parents, and curious minds, cicadas offer a wonderful entry point into scientific exploration. Their unique life cycle demonstrates biological adaptation, population strategies, and ecological timing. At CMY Cubes, we love highlighting nature’s mysteries, because they inspire hands-on learning and spark questions that lead to deeper understanding.

Imagine using our vibrant sensory tools to explore sound waves, heat sensitivity, or even color responses in insects. Pairing CMY Cubes with outdoor exploration helps bring science to life and shows that learning does not stop at the classroom door.

The next time you hear the chorus of cicadas in August, take a moment to appreciate what it truly means. It is the sound of survival, transformation, and nature working in harmony. From deep underground to high in the treetops, these insects perform a cycle that has continued for millions of years.

At CMY Cubes, we celebrate these fascinating phenomena. Our mission is to turn everyday moments like this into exciting learning opportunities. Through color, light, and exploration, we help people of all ages rediscover their curiosity.