Will the cicada emergence harm NC gardens, pets? Attract copperheads? What to know

Yahoo! News - May 6th, 2025

As Western North Carolina braces for the emergence of the 17-year cicada Brood XIV, residents are advised on what to expect. According to NC State entomologist Matt Bertone, this brood will be much more prominent in the region compared to previous years and is expected to start emerging between May and June, once the soil temperature reaches 64 degrees. Local resources clarify common misconceptions about cicadas, such as their inability to bite or sting and their general harmlessness to humans and pets. Additionally, while cicadas may attract copperhead snakes due to their high protein content, experts assure residents that the threat is often exaggerated on social media.

The significance of this emergence lies in both the ecological and community impact. Periodical cicadas play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aerating the ground during their emergence and providing a food source for predators like birds and snakes. However, they also present potential nuisances, such as noise disturbances and minor damage to plants due to egg-laying practices. Residents are encouraged to minimize noise pollution from power tools that may attract cicadas and to take precautions to prevent pets from consuming large amounts of these insects. This event underscores the intricate balance between wildlife patterns and human habitats, prompting both awareness and preparedness among the local community.

Wildlife Western North Carolina Environmental Impact Aspca Cicada Brood Xiv Matt Bertone Nc State Cicada Mania Copperhead Snakes Orkin

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.6

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a well-rounded and factual overview of the upcoming cicada emergence, supported by expert insights and credible sources. It effectively addresses common concerns and misconceptions, offering practical advice to residents of Western North Carolina. While the article excels in clarity and timeliness, it could benefit from additional empirical evidence to support certain claims, such as the impact on copperhead snake behavior. The piece maintains a neutral tone, focusing on education rather than controversy, and its structure enhances readability and engagement. Overall, the article serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand and prepare for the cicada emergence, though it could further enrich its content by integrating more diverse perspectives and interactive elements.

Accuracy

The article provides a generally accurate account of the cicada emergence, supported by expert input from NC State entomologist Matt Bertone and references to Cicada Mania. The timing of Brood XIV's emergence, linked to soil temperature, aligns with known entomological data. However, some claims, such as the minimal cicada activity in 2024 and the exact impact of cicadas on copperhead behavior, are not thoroughly substantiated with specific data or studies. The article correctly identifies cicadas' inability to bite or sting and their harmless nature to pets, consistent with ASPCA guidelines. Overall, the factual content is well-supported, though some areas could benefit from additional empirical evidence.

Balance

The story presents a balanced view of cicadas, addressing both their ecological role and common misconceptions. It includes perspectives from entomologists and pest control experts, providing a comprehensive overview of cicada behavior and impact. However, it primarily focuses on the benign aspects of cicadas, potentially underrepresenting any negative experiences or concerns from residents. The article could enhance balance by including more voices, such as local residents’ concerns or experiences, to provide a fuller picture of the cicada emergence's impact on the community.

Clarity

The article is well-structured, with clear headings that guide the reader through different topics related to cicadas. The language is straightforward and accessible, effectively communicating complex entomological concepts to a general audience. However, some sections, such as the discussion on copperheads, could benefit from clearer explanations to avoid misinterpretation of the risks involved. Overall, the article maintains a neutral tone and logical flow, aiding reader comprehension.

Source quality

The article relies on credible sources, including entomologists and the ASPCA, enhancing its reliability. References to Cicada Mania and pest control company Orkin add depth, though these sources may have inherent biases due to their affiliations. The inclusion of expert opinions from recognized authorities like NC State entomologists adds weight to the claims. However, the article could improve by citing academic studies or government reports to further substantiate claims, particularly regarding ecological interactions and public safety concerns.

Transparency

The article clearly attributes information to specific sources, such as Cicada Mania and the ASPCA, and identifies the entomologist providing expert insight. However, it lacks detailed explanations of how information was gathered or verified. The article could improve transparency by explaining the methodology behind the entomological predictions or providing more context on how expert opinions were selected. Additionally, disclosing any potential conflicts of interest, particularly with commercial sources like Orkin, would enhance transparency.