Their numbers are huge but no need to be scared.

They’ve been underground now for seventeen years.

In April or May, they’ll emerge to great cheers.

The cycle this time has been labeled “Brood X.”

They’ll have a few weeks to shed, sing and have sex.

Magicicada’s their species by name.

Extending life cycles in ice is their game.

The youngsters, called nymphs, claw their way above ground.

Their buzzing’s akin to a short wired sound.

And they’re very gentle, don’t bite and don’t sting.

They’re attracted to noise, so, if you see one, sing.

They might be the whole insect world’s seventh wonder.

Enjoy their time here, because soon they go under

and don’t reappear for two decades less three.

They’ll be zombiefied and eat roots from a tree.

By the time they emerge, the whole world might be ice.

Say farewell, cicadas. Above all, be nice.