Cicada Killers
Cicada killers are an extremely large species of wasp. Adults grow to 2 – 3 inches in length. Cicada killers range in color from black to rusty red, and they have yellow and black banding on their abdomens. They have yellowish tinted wings that are heavily veined. These stinging insects build their nests below-ground. The solitary adult is often seen hovering 1 to 2 feet above the ground near the entrance to its nest.
Cicada killers look for cicada populations to feed on. If you have cicadas living in the bushes around your home, cicada killers will likely follow. Cicada killers are a nuisance around the home because they dig large nests which are unsightly. These nests are sometimes thought to be from an animal because they are so big. Cicada Killers in particular can do a great deal of damage to lawns, so it is advisable to eradicate them as soon as possible.
Cicada Killer Facts:
- Solitary insects, meaning only a single female builds the nest (or nests) and lays eggs
- Very docile in nature (male cicada killers don’t even have stingers!)
- Females have a large stinger to inject venom into cicada prey
- Do not have nest-guarding instincts like honey bees or other wasps
- Found in areas with well-drained, light soil in direct sun where cicadas are harboring
- Responsible for causing property damage when digging massive tunnels in which to raise their young
How Altus Pest Control Can Get Rid of Cicada Killers
Cicada killers can be uncomfortable wasps to live with, especially given their size. If a colony is found on your property, treatment should always be handled by a professional company. Our technicians take pride in tackling the toughest Cicada Killer infestation.