Insect populations drop even without direct human interference, a new study finds

Cicadas from a 17-year cicada brood and shells shed by cicada nymphs sit at the base of a tree on May 29, 2024, in Park Ridge, Ill. Cicadas are of the order Hemiptera — the type of winged insects commonly found in the study of insect declines.

Research published this month found that even in pristine, untouched areas, insect populations are still on the decline. Climate change is a likely culprit.

(Image credit: Scott Olson)