Cicadas have been screaming for weeks now, but they are expected to go dormant again later this month. 

Those are the words of an expert with the University of Illinois Extension office, who says the end is likely near. In the meantime, Program Coordinator Sarah Ruth says the insects provide benefit to the world around us.

Cicada eggs will hatch after 6-10 weeks, and the cicada nymphs will burrow into the ground, attaching to a tree’s roots. They will remain dormant underground anywhere from 2-17 years, depending on the species.