| Periodical Cicadas are 1 1/8 inch
long. Emergence of the various species of Magicicada run in
cycles of 13-17 years. Eggs are laid in slits cut into tree limbs
by the female. When the nymphs emerge, they burrow into the soil
where they slowly develop. Once the nymph is ready for its
transformation into an adult, it emerges from the soil and climbs to the
nearest tree, where it splits the skin. The incessant buzzing that
these insects are known for is produced from structures termed 'tymbals'
located on the abdomen. |
