In 2025, Suffolk County & Nassau County is bracing for a once-in-a-generation event: the emergence of Brood XIV cicadas. After 17 years, the swarm will come to the area in massive numbers.
Cicadas are large, flying insects that mainly feed on tree sap. Cicadas are known for their loud buzzing song, which can reach up to 90 decibels โ about the same volume as a lawnmower.
As a homeowner, you may be wondering what this means for your property and how to protect your landscape from these noisy insects. We at Suburban Exterminating are here to help you navigate the upcoming cicada season with ease. Weโve been around for over 63 years and are no strangers to cicadas.ย
When will these cicadas arrive? (and what are they?)
Cicadas are unique insects with a fascinating life cycle. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. Then they come out when soil temperatures reach 64ยฐF, typically in mid-May. Once above ground, cicadas shed their exoskeletons and transform into winged adults.ย
Are they dangerous?
While their presence can be overwhelming, cicadas are generally harmless to humans and pets. They don’t bite or sting, but their egg-laying habits can cause damage to young trees and shrubs. Female cicadas use their saw-like ovipositors to create slits in tree branches, where they lay their eggs. This can lead to broken or damaged limbs, stunting the growth of your plants.
How You Can Get Rid of Cicadas
While completely eradicating cicadas during their emergence is challenging, there are measures you can take to reduce their impact on your Suffolk County & Nassau County property.
DIY Cicada Management Techniques
For smaller cicada populations, try these do-it-yourself tactics:
- Shield young trees and shrubs with netting to stop cicadas from depositing eggs.
- Apply insect repellent around outdoor living areas to repel cicadas.
- Postpone planting new fruit trees or shrubs until after cicada season.
- Minimize daytime use of noisy lawn equipment when cicadas are most active to reduce outdoor noise.
- Use a garden hose to carefully remove cicadas from plants and surfaces without damaging them.
However, for larger infestations or peace of mind, youโll need the help of a professional Suffolk County & Nassau County pest control company like Suburban Exterminating.ย
Other Pests to Be Aware of During Cicada Season
While cicadas take center stage during the summer months, there are other pests that can wreak havoc for Suffolk County & Nassau County homeowners, such as mosquitoes and ticks. As cicadas die, their decomposing bodies provide a food source for these pests, causing their populations to surge.
To keep these pests at bay:
- Eliminate standing water around your property to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Keep your lawn mowed and remove leaf litter to minimize tick habitats.
- Use EPA-approved insect repellents when outdoors, especially in wooded areas.
Suburban Exterminating: Your Trusted Partner for Seasonal Pest Control
If the thought of cicada season overwhelms you or you need help with other pest problems, don’t hesitate to call the experts at Suburban Exterminating. We offer specialized services to control cicadas, mosquitoes, ticks, and other seasonal pests.ย
Our team of experienced pest control professionals has the training and expertise to identify cicadas, assess their impact on your property, and recommend the best course of action to minimize damage. With over [number] years of experience serving Suffolk County & Nassau County homeowners, we have the knowledge and skills to tackle any pest issue, regardless of its size or complexity.
And we understand that every home is unique, which is why we develop customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and budget. Our technicians use only the safest, most effective methods to eliminate pests and prevent their return.
So why wait? Contact us today for a free service quote and let us help you take back your home from pests!
