A group of periodical cicadas, classified as Brood V, is expected to blanket select areas of the country this spring after spending 17 years underground. Last seen in 1999, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) says this specific brood will remain above ground for about a month to reproduce en masse and eventually die-off. Their offspring will burrow back in the soil and will not be seen again until 2033.
“Periodical cicadas are known to emerge from underground in 13- or 17-year cycles, typically once the temperature eight inches below the surface reaches 64 degrees,” said Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist and vice president of technical and regulatory affairs for the NPMA. “These noisy creatures will likely first be heard in late April or early May in parts of Ohio, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Areas heavily dense with mature trees should expect to see the most cicadas.”
Periodical cicadas are easily identifiable by their striking black bodies, red eyes and the loud buzzing noise that males make to attract female mates. These insects do not pose a health threat to humans, but they can cause minor damage to tree and plant branches — particularly younger branches — on which females deposit their eggs.
Although long-term damage from cicadas is rare, if you’re concerned about protecting young trees from cicadas you can cover small trees or branches with netting, cheesecloth or a similar material. Knock off any bugs found on the plants by spraying them with a garden hose, or by hand if you’re not grossed out by these big bugs.
If big buzzing bugs aren’t your thing, avoid spending time outdoors during the daytime when cicadas are most active. However, PermaTreat has another take on the cicada invasion. “Go outside and enjoy this really cool event. The sound that they produce is extremely loud and it really is a wonder and a sight to see.”
As new cases of Zika continue to pop up across the United States, it’s more essential than ever to take proper precautions to avoid contact with biting mosquito populations. Mosquitoes are vector pests and can transmit other harmful diseases such as West Nile virus and Chikungunya, in addition to Zika. With warm weather rolling in, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and PermaTreat are urging the public to take extra precautions when spending time outdoors and when getting their homes and property in shape for spring.
Prime mosquito season is fast-approaching and it is important for people to be aware and to know how to protect themselves from these potentially dangerous insects. Given the health risks like Zika that are increasing in our country, it’s important to remain vigilant in mosquito prevention techniques, which include eliminating breeding grounds around the yard, understanding these pests’ behaviors, and correctly applying insect repellent.”
To prevent the health risks that can potentially accompany an already-pesky mosquito bite, be sure to follow these mosquito prevention tips from the NPMA:
When spending time outdoors, apply an insect repellant containing at least 20% DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon-eucalyptus, and reapply as directed on the label. People who are spending long amounts of time outdoors should also consider wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts and closed-toe shoes to limit exposure to mosquitoes. The main type of mosquito that carries Zika is a daytime biter, so taking preventive measures at all times of the day is crucial.
Anyone traveling outside of the United States should be aware of travel advisories currently in effect. Pack plenty of insect repellant and protective clothing. If a person falls ill upon returning home, seek prompt medical attention.
Mosquitoes need only about a half an inch of water to breed, so homeowners should eliminate areas of standing water such as flowerpots, birdbaths, baby pools, grill covers and other objects where water collects.
Even children’s toys like buckets and sandboxes can collect water and become a breeding ground for mosquitoes right in the backyard, so be sure to keep these objects water-free.
Screen all windows and doors, and patch up even the smallest tear or hole on screens.
If there are concerns about mosquito activity on the property, contact a licensed pest control company or the local mosquito abatement district.
For more information on mosquito control call PermaTreat today!
