Cicada Killers

Cicada killers are large, solitary wasps known for their impressive size and hunting behavior. They prey on cicadas, capturing them in flight and paralyzing them with venom before carrying them back to their burrows to feed their larvae. Cicada killers are typically not aggressive toward humans and rarely sting unless handled or provoked. They can be identified by their large size, with females reaching up to 2 inches in length, and their distinctive yellow and black coloration. Cicada killers are commonly found in sandy or well-drained soil, where they dig burrows for nesting. Despite their imposing appearance, cicada killers are beneficial insects that help control cicada populations.