When there is a high concentration of cicadas in one area, they can cause cosmetic damage to trees as they lay their eggs. However, these insects actually provide a few benefits to nature after their emergence. Cicadas become a source of food for many different animals including, birds, reptiles, snakes, and some species of spiders. When they are underground, the nymphs construct tunnels for travel and these tunnels help to aerate the soil and help tree roots have better access to nutrients and oxygen.