They're back!
Some noisy pests are moving back in after a nearly 17-year slumber.
Cicadas have started making their way back into many hometowns.
Over the last several weeks, the Virginia Extension office has gotten calls from Bedford County and Blue Ridge residents.
The 17-year cicadas emerge from roots underground, then head to the branches to begin their breeding cycle.
The insects can damage larger tree and kill smaller ones.
"Unfortunately sprays are not very effective. I can spray today and a half-hour later another can fly in and your spray can only be applied every 7 to 14 days depending on the product you're using," explains Horticulture Technician Barbara Leach.
Cicadas are out for 4 to 6-weeks, before a batch of locusts moves in in the late summer.
Most large trees can handle the cicadas.
For smaller fruit trees, experts suggest wrapping the leaves with netting and tightly securing them at the trunk.
