Do Locusts Exist In Wisconsin?

The Black Locust, a species of invasive tree in Wisconsin, is a significant ecological threat due to its vigorous vegetative reproduction and extensive, dense groves of clones. It was planted extensively in the upper Midwest in the early 1900s to prevent soil erosion. Wisconsin is known for its stunning natural beauty, with vast forests and woodlands that attract visitors from around the world.

The Black Locust has alternating pinnate compound leaves that are thin and elliptical in shape, with white fragrant thorns at each node. Its native range was likely limited to southern Wisconsin, but it has been widely planted and sometimes escapes on disturbed sites as far north as Douglas and Bayfield Counties.

Another species of invasive tree in Wisconsin is the BugLady, a perennial shrub in the pea family with rose-colored flowers and red bristly stalks. It invades numerous habitat types, including upland forests, forest edges, prairies, and other areas.

Insects like the Dog Day Cicada, the most common species in Wisconsin, are expected to continue emerging in southern Wisconsin into June and will not appear again in the state until 2041. In June, 17-year cicadas will return to parts of southern Wisconsin after nearly two decades in the ground.

In summary, the Black Locust, a species of invasive tree, poses a significant ecological threat in Wisconsin, with its aggressive behavior and potential for harm.

How Do You Get Rid Of Black Locust?

Una de las estrategias para el control del espino dulce y el álamo negro implica cortar los árboles cada temporada de crecimiento. Deben cortarse tanto los nuevos brotes como el crecimiento reciente, lo que probablemente requerirá repetirse varios años. También se sugiere esparcir heno sobre el área para prevenir el rebrote. El álamo negro se cortó en un callejón por la compañía de electricidad, ya que crecía hacia las líneas eléctricas; se considera un árbol de rápido crecimiento e invasivo.

Para eliminar el álamo negro, se pueden emplear cortadoras de matorrales, motosierras o herramientas manuales para cortar el tallo al ras, y luego tratar el tocón con una solución al 20% de Roundup. Se recomienda el uso de biopesticidas que eliminen las plagas sin dañar el ecosistema. El álamo negro tiene un valor ecológico, ya que alimenta a más de 70 especies de insectos. Sin embargo, se necesita monitoreo a largo plazo, pues una vez establecido, es difícil erradicarlo.

La combinación de la técnica de corte y tratamiento de las raíces con herbicidas como el triclopyr y el glyphosate/Roundup es efectiva; la repetición de este tratamiento durante varios años puede controlar su crecimiento. Para los retoños que surgen en céspedes, se recomienda un corte regular. Un enfoque adicional incluye el uso de herbicidas específicos que afecten el sistema radicular del árbol. Aunque el álamo negro puede rebrota tras ser cortado al suelo, los herbicidas bien aplicados pueden ser más efectivos que el simple corte, ya que el espino dulce y el álamo negro requieren un tratamiento más metódico y sostenido para un control exitoso.

What Bugs Are Mistaken For Locusts?

Cicadas are frequently referred to as "locusts" due to their sudden appearance in large numbers, but they belong to a different order of insects; cicadas are part of the order Homoptera, whereas locusts are grasshoppers from the order Orthoptera. In Europe, "locust" refers to large acridids, while smaller species are classified as grasshoppers. In contrast, North America uses these terms interchangeably for any acridid.

The term "17-year locust" specifically refers to the 17-year periodic cicada (Magicicada septendecim), which emerges in vast quantities. Despite their behavioral similarities—such as swarming—cicadas and locusts are distinctly different insects.

Both insects can have negative perceptions, but for differing reasons. While cicadas are beneficial and mainly nuisance due to their noise, locusts can cause significant agricultural damage. This confusion is often exacerbated by cicadas' emergence patterns, appearing en masse similar to locust swarms. Additionally, characteristics such as size, body shape, antennae, behavior, and color can differentiate them from related insects like katydids, crickets, and praying mantises.

Both cicadas and locusts have identifiable features, yet they are frequently misidentified among various other insects, including bats and bedbugs. While cicadas are mistakenly called locusts, they actually belong to a completely different taxonomic classification, emphasizing the importance of understanding these distinctions. Grasshoppers and crickets belong to the same family, but locusts are larger and more destructive when swarming, unlike cicadas, which mainly create noise. Hence, it is crucial to recognize that although cicadas may be colloquially labeled as locusts, they are fundamentally different species.

Where Can I Find More Information About Black Locust Control?

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is an invasive species that thrives in various habitats, including open woodlands and stream valleys. It establishes itself in natural areas, especially along logging roads and former homesteads. Controlling black locust poses challenges due to its clonal nature; all stems within a clone must be addressed for effective management. Property owners are encouraged by the King County Noxious Weed Control Board to remove black locust from their properties. For advice on control techniques, resources like the University of Wisconsin-Extension’s Black Locust factsheet are available.

Chemical control is often necessary; mature black locust requires herbicide applications such as foliar spray, cut stump treatments, basal bark, and stem injection. Triclopyr is effective for broad-leaved plant control, while glyphosate products like Roundup may be used for young seedlings. It's essential to follow pesticide labels carefully to ensure safe and effective application. Black locust can propagate through seeds and underground stems, exacerbating control efforts.

Repeated cutting of sprouts over several years can help manage black locust, and creating a heavily shaded environment may inhibit its growth. Large infestations may require cut-stem herbicide treatments. The aggressive growth and extensive root system of black locust significantly complicate eradication efforts, making it essential to combine multiple control strategies for success.

Are Locust Trees Native To Wisconsin?

The Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and Honey Locust are significant tree species in Wisconsin, each with distinct native ranges, uses, and environmental impacts. Originally, the native range of the Black Locust was likely confined to southern Wisconsin. However, it has been extensively planted across the state and has escaped cultivation, establishing itself in disturbed areas as far north as Douglas and Bayfield Counties. This widespread planting began in the early 1900s when Black Locust was introduced to prevent soil erosion in the upper Midwest.

Despite its benefits, Black Locust has become a problematic invasive species in Wisconsin, invading forests, upland prairies, savannas, pastures, old fields, and roadsides. Its vigorous vegetative reproduction allows it to form multiple-stemmed clones, outcompeting native vegetation and disrupting ecosystems. Black Locust can grow rapidly, reaching heights of 80 feet and widths of 30 feet under optimal conditions of full sun and well-drained soil. It produces rot-resistant wood with a high heating value, making it valuable commercially.

In contrast, the Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) is native to Wisconsin but exists in much lower populations compared to its prevalence in the central and eastern United States. Its low population is attributed to its desirable ornamental qualities, including an attractive appearance and tolerance to various soil conditions, which make it a popular choice for landscaping throughout the state. Despite being native, Honey Locust does not pose the same invasive threats as Black Locust.

Identifying locust trees in Wisconsin involves examining features such as their pinnate compound leaves. Resources like the Wisconsin Urban Tree Key and the Arbor Day Foundation’s tree identification guide can aid in proper identification. While locust trees add variety to Wisconsin’s landscapes, the invasive nature of Black Locust necessitates careful management to protect native ecosystems. Efforts to control its spread are essential to mitigate the environmental challenges it presents.

Are The Cicadas In Wisconsin Yet?

Brood XIII, a group of 17-year periodical cicadas, is set to emerge in Wisconsin in 2024, marking their most recent appearance since 2007. Historically, Brood XIII has surfaced in the state in years such as 1990, 1973, 1956, 1939, 1922, 1888, and 1871, with some records tracing back to 1837 and 1854, shortly after Wisconsin achieved statehood in 1848. These synchronized emergences are rare, with the last occurrence dating back to 1803.

In 2024, billions of Brood XIII cicadas are expected to emerge across southern Wisconsin, extending into much of northern and central Illinois, eastern Iowa, and small regions of northwestern Indiana and southern Michigan. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed the emergence, with early sightings reported in areas like Lake Geneva and Walworth County. The cicadas are anticipated to continue emerging into June, with their presence in the state lasting until 2041.

Periodical cicadas like Brood XIII spend 17 years underground as juveniles, feeding on tree roots before emerging as adults for about four to six weeks to mate and lay eggs. This brief adult lifespan contributes to their highly synchronized and concentrated emergences. In Wisconsin, Brood XIII cicadas are primarily confined to the southern counties, historically extending as far north as Sauk County.

In addition to Brood XIII, Wisconsin experiences annual cicada emergences known as "dog day cicadas," which typically appear in July and August. However, the 2024 event is exclusively due to Brood XIII, highlighting a significant periodical cicada emergence. The Wisconsin Periodical Cicada website (cicadas. wisc. edu) offers comprehensive information on the biology, ecology, and distribution of these insects, serving as a valuable resource for residents and enthusiasts.

The 2024 Brood XIII emergence begins in late May, with peak activity in June. Residents are encouraged to observe and document sightings, contributing to scientific understanding and tracking of the cicada population. This event presents a unique opportunity to witness one of nature’s remarkable mass insect phenomena, characterized by the cacophony of millions of cicadas filling the summer air. The synchronized emergence of Brood XIII cicadas not only fascinates entomologists but also engages the public in appreciating this extraordinary natural event.

What States Have Locust?

Locust swarms are not currently experienced in the United States due to the extinction of locusts like the Rocky Mountain locust (Melanoplus spretus) in the late 19th century. However, locusts are expected to appear in regions such as Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee between mid-May and late June. A 2021 grasshopper hazard map reveals significant densities of grasshoppers in states like Montana, Wyoming, and Oregon. The prominent migratory species in Central and South America is the South American locust (Schistocerca paranensis).

Although Florida has cicadas, it lacks the broods that emerge in massive numbers at once, unlike other regions. A recent desert locust outbreak from June 2019 to February 2022 caused over $1. 3 billion in crop damage across Eastern Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent. Locusts, which can be found on every continent except Antarctica, have had a profound impact on agriculture throughout history, forming swarms that devastate crops.

Research suggests that environmental factors like heavy rains may trigger locust outbreaks. Currently, there are over 3, 378 described species of cicadas, with broods expected to emerge across a broad swath of the United States, particularly in Illinois and its surrounding states.

Are There Locusts In The United States?

Locusts, distinct from cicadas, have a notable history in North America. Historically, the Rocky Mountain locust (Melanoplus spretus) was widespread across the western United States and parts of Canada, thriving in large numbers until its extinction in the early 1900s. This extinction marked North America as the only continent, aside from Antarctica, currently devoid of native locust species. While the Rocky Mountain locust is no longer present, other locust species persist in regions like Mexico.

However, the United States itself does not have native locusts. Future prospects indicate that the Central American locust might migrate to Southern Texas, potentially reintroducing locust presence in parts of the U. S.

In contrast, locusts remain a significant concern in Central and South America, with species like the South American locust (Schistocerca paranensis) being the primary migratory threats. These regions continue to experience locust activity, which can have devastating effects on agriculture and livelihoods. Globally, locusts are most destructive in subsistence farming areas of Africa. The desert locust, in particular, poses substantial economic threats.

Recent outbreaks from 2019 to 2022 resulted in over $1. 3 billion in crop damage across 23 countries in eastern Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, stretching from Ethiopia to Nepal. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization warns that ongoing desert locust activity could threaten the livelihoods of millions.

Historically, locust swarms have traversed vast distances, such as the 1988 event where a swarm traveled 3, 100 miles from West Africa to the Caribbean in just ten days. In North America, the absence of current locust swarms is primarily due to the extinction of the Rocky Mountain locust and the lack of other native species. Efforts to understand and control locust populations continue, with advancements like the sequencing of the desert locust genome by Agricultural Research Service scientists. These measures aim to mitigate the destructive potential of locusts, particularly in regions where they remain a persistent agricultural threat.

Do Black Locust Clones Need To Be Mowed?

Burning and mowing can temporarily manage the spread of young shoots from black locust trees, but these methods come with caveats. Mowing may actually promote seed generation, while burning can trigger sprouting. To effectively control black locust, all stems in a clone must be treated because the species reproduces primarily via vegetative means, with clonal growth occurring particularly in sandy soils.

Cutting and girdling are ineffective alone, as they can lead to sprouting unless the cut stumps are treated with herbicide. While basal bark treatment may help, mowing and burning alone mainly lower the spread of young shoots without killing the clone.

Black locust trees are resistant and adaptable, capable of thriving in various soils, including those that are acidic, alkaline, or even poor in quality. They can tolerate drought and salty conditions, growing well in both full sun and partial shade. Their extensive root systems facilitate vegetative reproduction, primarily through suckering and runners, especially after being cut or damaged. These trees often invade disturbed and degraded habitats.

Pest concerns for black locust are limited, and maintaining healthy trees is essential for their resilience. Management strategies should involve the application of systemic herbicides to the stumps after cutting to ensure more effective control. Close monitoring of treated sites is necessary, as the species’ ability to sprout again from the roots means that control measures must be thorough and persistent. Ultimately, effective black locust management requires a combination of multiple methods to achieve long-term control.

Am I Hearing Locusts Or Cicadas?

Locusts and cicadas are often confused due to their similar appearances and behaviors, but they are distinct insects with notable differences. Male cicadas are renowned as the true singers of the forest, capable of producing sounds up to 100 decibels using their specialized tymbal-like organs. This loud chorus is especially prominent during their 13 to 17-year life cycles, making their emergence highly noticeable. In contrast, locusts generate buzzing and clicking sounds by rubbing their wings or bodies together, but these noises are generally quieter and less intense than the collective drone of cicadas.

One of the primary distinctions lies in their behavior patterns. Cicadas emerge in large numbers but do not form swarms, and importantly, they do not pose a threat to crops. Locusts, however, are notorious for their swarming behavior, which can lead to significant agricultural damage as they decimate and consume crops. Physically, cicadas have big, clear wings and rounded bodies, whereas locusts are typically smaller with a slim, straight body and large hind legs adapted for leaping.

Cicadas are mostly active during the day, singing loudly to attract mates, while nighttime sounds are usually produced by crickets and katydids. Despite their loudness, cicada noises are generally not harmful to human hearing unless one is exposed to them at very close range for extended periods. Prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels can be harmful, but typical cicada activity poses minimal risk unless one is in close proximity for several hours.

In some regions, cicadas are colloquially referred to as locusts or by their specific life cycle years, such as "13-year locusts." However, it's important to distinguish between the two to understand their different ecological impacts and behaviors. Recent events, such as the simultaneous emergence of two periodical cicada broods in Illinois, highlight the fascinating and rare phenomena associated with cicada life cycles, further emphasizing their unique place in the insect world.