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EPISODE · Jun 30, 2021 · 30 MIN

Ode to Cicadas

from Sidedoor · host Smithsonian Institution

Every 17 years, the notorious Brood X cicadas crawl out of the earth by the billions to deafen Washington D.C. After nearly two decades underground, they spend their few short weeks in the sun singing, mating, and dying so the next generation can start anew. The cicadas' distinctive sound and strange life cycle have captivated our human ancestors for millennia, inspiring songs, art, royal attire and even some unique burial rituals. 

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 30, 2021

What this episode covers

Every 17 years, the notorious Brood X cicadas crawl out of the earth by the billions to deafen Washington D.C. After nearly two decades underground, they spend their few short weeks in the sun singing, mating, and dying so the next generation can start anew. The cicadas' distinctive sound and strange life cycle have captivated our human ancestors for millennia, inspiring songs, art, royal attire and even some unique burial rituals.

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Ode to Cicadas

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Sidedoor?

This episode is 30 minutes long.

When was this Sidedoor episode published?

This episode was published on June 30, 2021.

What is this episode about?

Every 17 years, the notorious Brood X cicadas crawl out of the earth by the billions to deafen Washington D.C. After nearly two decades underground, they spend their few short weeks in the sun singing, mating, and dying so the next generation can...

Can I download this Sidedoor episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
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