The cicada life cycle consists of three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Female cicadas lay their eggs in tree branches. After a few weeks, the eggs hatch into nymphs, which fall to the ground and burrow into the soil. Nymphs live underground for several years, feeding on plant roots. When they mature, they emerge from the ground, shed their skin, and become adults. Adult cicadas are known for their loud mating calls, which attract partners. This cycle can take several years, depending on the species, with some cicadas emerging every 13 or 17 years.