Skip to Content

Cicadas are nature’s weirdos. They pee stronger than us and an STD can turn them into zombies

By SETH BORENSTEIN
AP Science Writer

The periodical cicadas that are about to infest two parts of the United States aren’t just plentiful, they’re downright weird. These insects are the strongest urinators in the animal kingdom, putting humans and elephants to shame. They have pumps in their heads that pull moisture from the roots of trees, allowing them to feed for more than a decade underground. They’re being ravaged by a sexually transmitted disease that turns them into zombies. And when they come out from underground, caterpillars love it because it gives birds something else to eat — trillions of crunchy bugs.

Article Topic Follows: AP National News

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KTVZ NewsChannel 21 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content