Cicada Exoskeletons on Trees: Harmless and Fascinating

What Those Empty Shells Really Are

The crunchy, hollow shells clinging to tree trunks are the shed exoskeletons of cicada nymphs. After spending years underground, they emerge, climb a tree, split their skin, and fly off as adults.

No Harm Done

• Cicadas don't bite, sting, or damage trees.
• They provide a protein-rich feast for birds.
• Their loud summer songs are a hallmark of the season.

Enjoy the spectacle—it's a sign of a healthy ecosystem. You can even watch the emergence process online or identify species by their unique calls.