As 17-year periodical cicada sightings continue in the Village of Park Forest, some may be unaware of the environmental benefits of having the buzzing insects around.

Sustainability Coordinator Carrie Malfeo said while some people are afraid of the flying bugs and others find them annoying, their pros outweigh their cons.

"Cicadas are not dangerous, and it's important for people to understand that," Malfeo said. "They are a valuable food source for birds and other predators."

Malfeo added, "Cicadas can aerate lawns and improve water filtration into the ground. Also, they add nutrients to the soil as they decompose."

Malfeo urged residents not to spray cicadas with pesticides. She said bug killers are generally ineffective in keeping cicadas away. So many cicadas emerge at once that more will inevitably move in. Spraying isn't ideal because cicadas are typically harmless.

Applying pesticides to control cicadas may harm other organisms, including animals that eat cicadas. Pesticides can be harmful to other non-target, beneficial insects. Pets and people may also be unnecessarily exposed to pesticides.

Malfeo said that instead of trying to get rid of cicadas, residents can add them to compost or beds to increase beneficial bacteria and fungus in the soil. This can help create a rich environment for growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

"They will eventually die," Malfeo said. "And when they do, their bodies will provide nitrogen for growing trees. So again, allow nature to take its course."