You can pick up a cicada! In fact, cicadas are completely harmless to humans, so there’s no need to worry about any safety precautions. They do not bite or sting, and they are not poisonous in any way. However, if you feel uncomfortable handling them with your bare skin, there are a few options you can consider.
One option is to wear latex gloves while handling cicadas. Latex gloves provide a barrier between your skin and the cicada, allowing you to pick them up without any direct contact. The advantage of using latex gloves is that they won’t hinder your dexterity, so you’ll still be able to handle the cicadas with ease.
Another option is to use a small container or a piece of cloth to pick up the cicadas. You can place the container or cloth near the cicada and gently coax them onto it. This way, you can transport them without actually having to touch them directly.
If you do choose to handle cicadas with your bare hands, it’s important to note that they may leave behind a sticky residue. This residue is called honeydew, and it’s a waste product that cicadas excrete. It’s not harmful, but it can be a bit unpleasant. You can easily wash it off with soap and water afterward.
In terms of actually picking up a cicada, it’s best to approach them gently and from behind. Cicadas can be quite skittish, so sudden movements may cause them to fly away. Slowly and carefully place your hand or the container near the cicada, and gently scoop it up without squeezing too tightly. It’s important to handle them with care to avoid injuring them.
Now, let me share a personal experience with cicadas. I remember as a child, during the summer months, the sound of cicadas would fill the air. Being curious, I would often pick them up and examine them closely. I found their vibrant colors and intricate patterns fascinating. My siblings and I would spend hours collecting cicadas, observing their behavior, and then releasing them back into nature.
Picking up a cicada is perfectly safe. While they are harmless to humans, if you prefer not to handle them directly, you can use latex gloves, a container, or a cloth to pick them up. Just remember to be gentle and avoid squeezing too tightly. Enjoy the unique experience of interacting with these fascinating creatures!