On 2 May 2004 07:06:33 -0700, opined:

Don't know where you are from, but have seen news reports on the 17
year cicada maturing this year. They would be about the size you
describe and starting to surface this spring and summer.

Cicada emerge as adults from the ground. Their larvae stay underground for the
duration of their long gestation.


The compost pile will attract earthworms, grubs, sow bugs, and insects
that help in reducing course vegetation to compost. If your compost
pile is too "cool" add some green material (green leaves or grass
clippings) or nitrogen to help heat it up. However it is early and
the warmth will attract the above (usually around the edges and
deeper)