16 states experience a once-in-221-year convergence of two cicada broods, resulting in trillions of cicadas.

Up close and personal, cicadas display Nature's artwork, with their splashes of color, subtle shapes, and unique features captivating some scientists and artists. A once-in-221-year convergence of two broods has resulted in trillions of cicadas populating 16 states, making them overwhelming, messy, and loud. Yet, for some, these periodical cicadas are more awe-inspiring than awful, with their otherworldly appearance adding to their intrigue.