Cicada invasion continues around Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – For the first time in thirteen years, the cicadas are back. While they might be cool to look at and hear for a few minutes, some people are not too happy with the constant noise.

“They’re big, they fly around, they are kind of annoying, but I like the sound they make honestly… They are colorful but obnoxious,” said residents of Chattanooga.

While there are some unhappy people about the constant loud noise and the mess they make from their shells. Experts are trying to tell us to enjoy them while they are here because it won’t be long till they are gone for another thirteen years.

“They will not hurt plants and they are not around for very long. They’ll be coming out here at the end of April and they’ll all be there by the end of May. So, it’s a very short time in which to experience periodical cicadas,” said Entomologist at the University of Georgia, Dr. Nancy Hinkle.

There is only one purpose for these ginormous bugs, and that’s to mate, but the process of a cicada’s life is much longer than many would expect.

“Within a month or so, the eggs will hatch the little babies, which will fall off the tree down into the dirt, burrow into the soil, attach their mouth parts to a tree root and they will suck on tree root sap for the next 12 years and 11 months,” said Dr. Hinkle.

While some aren’t too happy with them, some do like how unique they are.

“I do like the orange colors; they are pretty,” said a resident of Chattanooga.

The good news for some is that they will be gone by next week, many can agree that the Cicadas have overstayed their welcome.