Limited cicada swarms expected in 2026, some states to see stragglers buzzing

In 2026, the United States will see only limited cicada activity as major broods stay underground. Enthusiasts in some southern and eastern states may spot stragglers buzzing, offering a rare glimpse of these insects outside their usual 13 or 17 year cycles.

As spring approaches across the United States, residents and enthusiasts may be curious about the return of cicadas. According to entomologists, 2026 will not experience significant nationwide emergences of the well-known 13- or 17-year cicada broods. Despite this, a small number of cicadas appearing outside their usual cycle, referred to as "stragglers," are expected in specific areas.

Minimal Cicada Emergence Forecasted

Michael J. Raupp, a professor of Entomology at the University of Maryland, emphasized that no major swarms will occur in 2026. He noted that while cicada enthusiasts may be somewhat disappointed, those who prefer to avoid these insects may find relief. Stragglers from Brood XXII, which follows a 13-year cycle, are likely to emerge in southern states, including:

• Mississippi
• Ohio

Additionally, stragglers from Brood II, a 17-year cycle, are anticipated in nine states:

• Connecticut
• North Carolina
• Pennsylvania
• Virginia

Upcoming Significant Cicada Emergences

Based on current data and research from Cicada Mania, future large-scale cicada emergences are projected as follows:

• Brood XXIII (2028): Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana
• Brood I (2029): Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee
• Brood II (2030): Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Virginia
• Brood XXII (2027): Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Kentucky

Understanding Straggler Emergence

Raupp explains that North America hosts seven species of periodical cicadas distributed across 15 distinct broods. While most cicadas strictly adhere to their 13- or 17-year cycles, stragglers emerge off-schedule, occasionally appearing one year early, four years early, or one year late. These off-year cicadas are generally localized and do not appear in the large numbers characteristic of full broods.

Cicada Life Cycle

Cicadas spend the majority of their lives underground as wingless nymphs, feeding on tree roots. They emerge when the soil reaches approximately 8 inches in depth and the temperature reaches around 64°F. Newly emerged adults remain fragile for several hours or days before becoming fully capable of flight, with a lifespan of two to four weeks above ground. Males produce characteristic buzzing sounds to attract females. Following mating, females lay eggs in tree branches, and the resulting larvae fall to the ground, resuming their underground 13- or 17-year developmental cycle.

Identifying Straggler Activity

In southern states such as Louisiana, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Ohio, straggler cicadas may become active when soil temperatures reach the mid-60s and conditions are suitable. Signs of emergence include:

• Excavation activity by small predators, including foxes, raccoons, skunks, and dogs, searching for cicada nymphs
• Mud turrets constructed over emergence holes, usually ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches in height
• Circular holes appearing in the ground during late March or early April

Further north, states including New Jersey and New York may experience straggler appearances several weeks later.

Ecological Contributions of Cicadas

Cicadas provide an important food source for various predators, including birds, foxes, skunks, and raccoons. Their emergence supports higher survival rates for bird offspring and allows caterpillar populations to benefit from reduced predation. Additionally, cicadas contribute to soil fertility and aeration through their emergence holes.

Conclusion

Although 2026 will not feature the large-scale cicada swarms seen during major brood emergences, the presence of stragglers offers observers the chance to witness these insects in localized areas. Updates and further information can be followed through resources such as Michael Raupp's Bug of the Week and Cicada Mania.

Sources:

• University of Maryland - Bug of the Week
• Cicada Mania
• The Washington Post
• No big cicada swarms in 2026 but stragglers will buzz in these states

Author: Lucas Grant
Lucas Grant is a sports journalist with extensive experience covering football and basketball championships. Known for factual accuracy and an engaging, dynamic writing style.