Long Island, get ready for the buzz! In 2025, our region is set to experience a once-in-a-17-year event: the emergence of Brood XIV cicadas.
You might be wondering what this means for your property and how to cope with these noisy, red-eyed visitors. Fear not, because Arrow Exterminating is here to help.
We understand that the thought of millions of insects swarming your backyard can be unsettling, but we’re here to put your mind at ease with this guide.
What You Need to Know About Cicadas
Cicadas are a type of insect that spend most of their lives underground, feeding on tree roots. In the spring, when the soil temperature reaches 64ยฐF, they emerge en masse to molt, mate, and lay eggs.
Brood XIV cicadas, which are expected to arrive in Long Island in mid-May 2025, are known for their distinctive black bodies, red eyes, and loud mating calls that can reach up to 100 decibels.
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Are Cicadas a Threat?
Not really โ these insects are generally harmless to humans and animals. While the idea of a cicada infestation might sound scary, they don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases.
However, their egg-laying habits can cause damage to young trees and shrubs, as female cicadas create holes in branches to deposit their eggs. This can lead to broken or weakened limbs, which may require pruning or removal.
How You Can Get Rid of Cicadas
While completely eliminating cicadas from your property may not be possible, there are some simple steps you can take to minimize their impact:
- Cover vulnerable trees and shrubs with fine mesh netting to prevent cicadas from laying eggs and feeding on the foliage.
- Use outdoor fans or noise-makers to create a gentle breeze and deter cicadas from congregating in your outdoor living spaces.
- Avoid using lawn equipment like mowers and trimmers during peak cicada activity times so your property is less attractive.
- Prune and maintain your trees and shrubs regularly outside of cicada season to reduce the available habitat for cicadas and make your landscaping less attractive to them.
Other Pests During Cicada Season: Mosquitoes and Ticks
While cicadas may be the most noticeable summer pest in Long Island, they’re not the only ones that can cause problems. Mosquitoes and ticks are also common in our area and can pose serious health risks to you and your family.
Here are steps you can take to reduce the risk of mosquito and tick bites on your property:
- Eliminate standing water sources like birdbaths, clogged gutters, and old tires to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
- Keep your lawn and landscaping trimmed and tidy to minimize hiding spots for ticks and other pests.
- Consider using natural or chemical repellents to keep mosquitoes and ticks away from your outdoor living areas.
Trust Arrow Exterminating for Expert Cicada and Other Pest Control Solutions
At Arrow Exterminating, we understand the unique challenges that Long Island property owners face when it comes to summer pests. That’s why we offer targeted treatments for cicadas, mosquitoes, ticks, and other seasonal pests using eco-friendly and pet-safe methods.
As a locally-owned and operated pest control company with over 75 years of experience serving Long Island, we have the knowledge and expertise to handle any summer pest problem you may be facing. Our highly-trained technicians quickly and effectively eliminate pests from your property, while our friendly and professional customer service team is always available to answer your questions and address your concerns.
Contact Arrow Exterminating today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and service estimate.
