08/24/2026
**STINGING INSECTS - CICADA KILLERS**
If you have noticed a very large wasps flying low in your back yard and digging holes, it is likely a Cicada Killer. They are not as scary as they look!
This time of year, we hear the sounds of the Cicada outside. Sometimes they can be so loud! Female cicada killer wasps hunt cicadas, paralyze them, and carry them back to their developing young. Thus giving them the name "Cicada Killer".
The males defend their territory, but not by stinging. In fact they do NOT even have the ability to sting. They try to intimidate with their size. They may also fly at you or even try to bump into you. Only females have the ability to sting, but they are generally not aggressive unless handled or threatened.
Several cicada killers may inhabit the same area. This does not mean there is a colony like yellow jackets. They just like the area. Cicada killers are solitary wasps, but if there are several in an area, it can have the appearance of a colony.
If you notice these large wasps, leave them alone. Yes, they are scary looking, but are not aggressive and will only sting if you handle them or threaten them. This time of year we get calls about treating for "Ground Hornets/Yellow Jackets" when it could just be cicada killers.
If you question whether you have one issue or the other, we are happy to help take a look and see if treatment is needed.
☎ 660-885-5378 🌐 www.jerryspest.com
