From the file marked “Why would anyone do that?” comes this information about cicadas from Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources.
State law prohibits removal of insects from state properties
Following multiple reports of individuals harvesting cicadas at Big Foot Beach State Park, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is issuing a reminder that state law strictly prohibits the capture and removal of animals, including insects, from state park properties. This regulation is in place to preserve the natural ecosystems and biodiversity of the parks.
While certain exceptions exist for hunting and fishing activities that are authorized by law, these do not extend to the collection and removal of cicadas. The DNR emphasizes that all visitors must adhere to these regulations to help maintain the ecological balance within the parks.
To address the issue, DNR park staff and wardens have been directed to focus on educating the public about the importance of cicadas and the regulations protecting them in state parks.
Don’t take those cicadas… or else!
Enforcement actions will be taken against individuals who continue to violate these laws despite educational efforts.
The DNR encourages anyone who witnesses cicada harvesting or any other violations in Wisconsin state parks to report these incidents promptly. Reports can be made to the DNR’s Violation Hotline online, or by calling or texting 1-800-847-9367.
By following these regulations and reporting violations, visitors can help ensure that Wisconsin’s state parks remain vibrant and healthy environments for all to enjoy.
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Please report any birds that choose to take cicadas “to go” instead of consuming on the grounds.
Those birds are part of the ecosystem which encompasses the entire area. Cicadas are one insect that does not do permanent damage to native plants.
Thank you, Gail! 🙂 We carried a few around in our RV recently. They were hiding in the storage bays. Will avoid being in or around Wisconsin. Thanks again and SAFE travels! 🙂
I’m not sure ANY amount of cicada harvesting would affect the ecosystem. Is there a shortage?
And the question remains…who would?
Entomologists, when my wife was younger (a long, log time ago) she studied insects. So she would collect different types.
If you get home and find a mosquito trapped inside your car, should you voluntarily turn yourself in to the DNR? Criminals are everywhere!