As a long-time outdoor writer and adventurer, I’ve experienced a lot of natural phenomena on the trails. But few are as uniquely captivating – and sometimes a little unnerving – as a cicada emergence. Recently, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from fellow outdoor enthusiasts about cicadas in Utah and whether they’re appearing in states further west like cicadas in Oregon. The buzz (pun intended!) is real. This article will break down everything you need to know about these fascinating insects, where to expect them, and how to prepare for a trip during cicada season, especially if you’re a hiker, camper, or run an outdoor business.
First, let’s clarify the types of cicadas. There are two main groups: periodical and annual. Annual cicadas, as the name suggests, emerge every year. They’re typically smaller and produce a less dramatic, though still noticeable, chorus. Periodical cicadas, however, are the real showstoppers. These emerge in massive numbers every 13 or 17 years, depending on the species. The Eastern US is famous for its periodical cicadas, but the West is seeing increased activity from different species.
The long life cycle of periodical cicadas is truly remarkable. They spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. When the time is right, triggered by soil temperature, they emerge en masse. This synchronized emergence is thought to be a defense mechanism – overwhelming predators with sheer numbers. The National Park Service has excellent resources detailing this process.
Yes, cicadas in Utah are becoming increasingly common. While Utah hasn’t historically been known for large-scale periodical cicada emergences like the East Coast, several species of annual cicadas are well-established. More recently, the Greenwing cicada (Prorhinocoris germanus) has been expanding its range and causing noticeable noise in areas like Washington County and along the Wasatch Front. These are larger annual cicadas that can sound quite loud. Reports in 2024 indicate increased activity, and experts predict continued expansion of their range.
The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is monitoring cicada populations, and you can find updates on their website. It’s important to note that while the noise can be startling, these cicadas don’t pose a threat to humans. However, their egg-laying activity can sometimes cause minor damage to young trees.
The question of cicadas in Oregon is becoming more frequent. Historically, Oregon has had a limited presence of cicadas, primarily annual species in the warmer, drier regions of the state, particularly in the Willamette Valley and eastern Oregon. However, similar to Utah, there's evidence of range expansion for some species. The Greenwing cicada is also making its presence known in Oregon, with reports increasing in recent years.
This is the million-dollar question! While a massive, synchronized emergence like those seen in the East isn’t currently predicted for Oregon, it’s not entirely out of the question in the long term. Climate change and the movement of goods and people could potentially introduce periodical cicadas to new areas. Oregon State University Extension provides valuable information on cicada identification and monitoring in the state.
So, what does all this mean for your outdoor adventures? Here’s a breakdown of how cicadas can impact different activities:
Even though cicadas aren’t directly harmed by our presence, it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles during cicada season. Leave No Trace emphasizes minimizing our impact on the environment. Here’s how that applies:
Thankfully, cicadas are not dangerous to humans. They don’t bite or sting. The biggest concern is the potential for allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies, as cicadas are related to shellfish. However, this is rare. The noise can be startling, but it’s harmless.
If you run an outdoor business – a guiding company, campground, or outdoor gear shop – here’s how to prepare for cicada season:
Here’s a quick guide to help you identify cicadas:
| Feature | Annual Cicadas | Periodical Cicadas |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Typically 1-2 inches long | Larger, up to 2.5 inches long |
| Color | Green, brown, or black | Black with orange veins on wings |
| Emergence Pattern | Every year | Every 13 or 17 years |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Very loud |
REI Expert Advice offers a helpful visual guide to cicada identification.
While the noise of a cicada emergence can be overwhelming at first, it’s a truly remarkable natural event. By understanding the life cycle of these fascinating insects and preparing for their emergence, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures to the fullest. Whether you’re hiking in Utah, camping in Oregon, or running an outdoor business, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural world around you. The cicadas in Utah and the increasing presence of cicadas in Oregon are a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing ecosystems we’re fortunate to explore.