Key Takeaways
Cicadas are not considered dangerous to humans or pets. Most risks are minor and manageable. This guide summarizes verified information on bites, stings, noise, plant impacts, and safe handling so you can make informed decisions during cicada emergence.
- Bites and stings are rare and generally harmless.
- Noise levels can reach 100 dB but typically do not cause hearing loss.
- Allergies are uncommon but possible.
- Oviposition can damage young tree branches.
- No known diseases are transmitted to people or pets.
Are Cicadas Dangerous? Verified Summary
In short, cicadas are not dangerous to humans or pets. They do not bite aggressively, sting, or spread disease. Noise from large emergences can reach high decibel levels but rarely causes permanent hearing damage. The main concern is oviposition damage to young trees. This article explains the facts, risks, and practical steps to reduce harm while coexisting with periodical cicada broods.
What Are Cicadas?
Cicadas are insects known for loud songs produced by males to attract females. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. Adults emerge for a short aboveground period to mate and lay eggs. Periodical cicadas in North America emerge in synchronized broods on 13- or 17-year cycles. Annual or “dog-day” cicadas appear each summer. Understanding these life cycles helps clarify risk and timing.
Life Cycle Overview
Nymphs develop slowly underground, feeding on xylem sap. When soil temperatures reach about 64°F (18°C) at root depths, they tunnel upward and molt into adults. Adults live 2–6 weeks aboveground. Males call from trees; females respond and lay eggs in small twigs. Eggs hatch in 6–10 weeks; nymphs fall to the ground and burrow to begin another long subterranean phase. This long cycle reduces frequent interactions with humans.
Health Risks to Humans
Cicadas do not transmit diseases to people. They are not venomous in the medical sense. Bites are uncommon and usually occur if a cicada is handled or pressed against skin. Such bites may feel like a mild prick and rarely break the skin. Stings are not typical; only male cicadas have egg-laying apparatus, and they do not sting. Public health agencies do not list cicadas as vectors or pests threatening human health.
Reported Bites and Sensitivities
Documented bites are infrequent and generally minor. Some people may experience local redness or a small welt. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. If you notice breathing difficulties, swelling, or signs of anaphylaxis after a bite, seek medical care immediately. For most individuals, no medical treatment is necessary beyond standard first aid and cleaning the area.
Noise Exposure and Hearing Safety
Cicada songs can be loud, with peaks around 100 dB measured at close range. However, exposure is typically intermittent and at greater distances, lowering average noise levels. Hearing damage is unlikely from ambient cicada noise alone. People working close to loud equipment or using power tools during emergences should continue using hearing protection. Ordinary outdoor activity does not require ear protection from cicadas.
Noise Comparison Examples
For context, a chainsaw can exceed 110 dB, a subway train about 90 dB, and a lawnmower around 90–100 dB. Cicada chorus, while noticeable, usually remains below levels that trigger occupational hearing standards. Temporary threshold shift may occur only with prolonged, very close exposure.
Risks to Pets and Livestock
Dogs and cats may be curious about cicadas and try to catch or eat them. Ingesting a few cicadas is generally not toxic, but it can cause mild stomach upset. There is no evidence that cicadas are poisonous to pets. Monitor pets who swallow large numbers, and contact a veterinarian if vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy occurs. Cicadas do not carry parasites or diseases that commonly affect pets.
Practical Tips for Pet Safety
- Redirect pets to play with toys instead of chasing cicadas.
- Check outdoor areas for shed exuviae before letting pets roam.
- Provide fresh water and a calm environment to reduce stress.
Tree and Plant Impacts
The primary ecological and horticultural concern is oviposition. Females cut slits in small twigs to deposit eggs. This can cause flagging, where the branch tip dies and turns brown. Young or newly planted trees may experience noticeable damage. Established trees usually tolerate oviposition with minimal long-term harm. Protecting saplings is the most common scenario where intervention is considered.
Management for Tree Health
Use fine-mesh netting to exclude cicadas from young trees during peak egg-laying. Remove and destroy egg-laden twigs by pruning 4–6 inches below the injury. Avoid unnecessary pesticide use, as cicadas do not carry diseases and broad sprays can harm beneficial insects. Focus protection on high-value or newly planted specimens rather than large established trees.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | Up to 100 dB at close range | Scientific measurement |
| Bite Risk | Rare; usually minor and non-breaking | Entomological observation |
| Disease Transmission | None documented in humans or pets | Public health data |
| Oviposition Damage | Primarily on twigs of young trees | Arboricultural guidance |
| Lifespan Aboveground | 2–6 weeks for adults | Entomology literature |
When to Seek Medical or Veterinary Advice
For people, consult a healthcare provider if a bite shows signs of infection, severe allergic reaction, or persistent symptoms. For pets, contact a veterinarian if there is repeated ingestion causing gastrointestinal distress, or if behavior changes occur. In most cases, professional care is not required after casual encounters with cicadas.
How to Coexist Safely
Wear shoes outdoors to avoid stepping on hidden nymphs. Gently brush cicadas off skin rather than crushing them, which may release fluid. Use window screens to keep adults out of homes. Secure pet food indoors overnight to avoid attracting insects. These simple measures reduce nuisance without harming ecosystems.
Final Verdict
Cicadas are not dangerous. They pose minimal health risk to people and pets, mainly causing nuisance noise and occasional twig damage to young trees. By understanding their behavior and taking simple precautions, you can safely coexist with these remarkable insects during their brief aboveground time.