Most experts recommend doing nothing if only a few cicadas take up residence in your yard. Running around spraying cans of Raid will likely do more environmental damage than a few cicadas ever could.

Of course, if you're not picking up good vibrations from your noisy backyard guests, you could always follow the example of the Bloomington, Ind., man who devised his own cicada eradication solution. Working on the principle that "turnabout is fair play," the man ate some 30 cicadas in mid-May. He soon developed an allergic response and required brief hospitalization.

If the thought of a similar culinary experience is irresistible, it would be wise to consult a doctor if you suffer from food allergies. Your physician may also recommend that a short visit to the psychiatric ward might be beneficial.

- Nick Thomas

Nick Thomas ([email protected]) is a freelance writer in Montgomery, Alabama. He writes a weekly column about animals and nature called "It?s A Jungle Out There!" for the Millbrook Independent.