Cicada Killer Wasp
Scientific Name
Size
1 – 1 5/8″
Key Features
- Black to rusty body
- Abdomen with yellow markings
- Reddish wings not folded at rest
Biology and Habits
Cicada killer wasps are solitary wasps and are rarely aggressive, but can sting if disturbed. Females dig tunnels in bare spots in the soil. Each tunnel is provisioned with one or two paralyzed cicadas and an egg. Many wasps may use the same area for nesting, however they do not form colonies. Cicada killers are a natural source of pest control for cicadas.
Control
Cicada killers rarely become a nuisance and control is not recommended. In situations where populations become too large, individual nests can be treated to kill developing larvae and adults. Eliminating bare spots in lawns or gardens can help prevent future infestations.
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