Celebrating Cicadas Exhibit Opens This Weekend At Dunn Museum

LAKE COUNTY, IL — The Dunn Museum in Libertyville plans to combine a spectacle of nature with a special exhibition.

Dedicated to the emergence of the spectacular 17-year periodical cicadas, “Celebrating Cicadas” will run from April 27 to Aug. 4, according to a news release from the Lake County Forest Preserve District.

Every 17 years, billions of periodical cicadas emerge from the ground, creating a natural phenomenon that captures the imagination of people worldwide. The Dunn Museum's exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the biology, behavior and ecological significance of these remarkable creatures.

Cicadas are expected to emerge in Lake County in late May and early June, once the temperature of the upper 8 inches of soil reaches 64 degrees.

Featuring interactive displays, informative exhibits and captivating visuals, the exhibition provides visitors with an engaging, educational experience, according to the news release. Visitors will discover the secrets of cicada life cycles, learn about their role in local habitats, and explore the cultural significance of these insects through folklore and history.

“Cicadas, with their fascinating life cycles and distinct sounds, have captured the interest of many,” said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves. “Through this exhibition, we hope to inspire curiosity and appreciation for the natural world."

Cicada specimens from the Field Museum dating back to 1939 will be showcased at the exhibit to illustrate the remarkable phenomenon.

“The Dunn Museum will host special events and educational programs throughout the duration of the exhibition, including guided tours in the forest preserves, hands-on activities and guest lectures by leading experts in entomology and ecology,” said Director of Education Alyssa Firkus. “This fabulous exhibition was designed to capture the interest of visitors of all ages.”

The Lake County Forest Preserves, which operates the Dunn Museum, commissioned Samantha Gallagher, a Lake County freelance illustrator, to help with the exhibition. Known as the "bee girl" in second grade due to her fascination with insects, Gallagher uses colored pencils, pastels and textured paper to bring cicadas, moths, birds and other subjects to life.

She encourages residents to “try to coexist” during the emergence.

“This happens once every 17 years,” she said. “The cicadas deserve this brief moment of glory after waiting so long.”

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