Cicada Killer Wasp Control: How to Get Rid of Them

Have you ever come across a large wasp that looks intimidating? If yes, then the chances are that it was a cicada killer wasp. Cicada killer wasps are solitary insects that can grow up to two inches in length, and they hunt and kill cicadas as their primary food source. While these wasps are not aggressive and rarely sting humans, they can become a nuisance if they build their nests close to your house. In this article, we will discuss how to control cicada killer wasps and keep them away from your property.

What are Cicada Killer Wasps?

Cicada killer wasps are large insects that belong to the family Crabronidae. These wasps are native to North America and are commonly found in the eastern and midwestern regions of the United States. The female cicada killer wasp can grow up to two inches in length, while the males are slightly smaller, usually around one and a half inches long. Cicada killer wasps are easily identifiable by their distinct coloring of black and yellow or brown.

Why do Cicada Killer Wasps Build Nests?

Cicada killer wasps build their nests in the ground, usually in sandy soil. The female wasp digs a hole in the ground, creates cells inside the hole, and lays her eggs in the cells. She then catches cicadas and paralyzes them by injecting venom into their bodies. Once the cicadas are immobilized, she places them in the cells along with her eggs. When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the cicadas until they pupate and emerge as adult wasps.

How to Identify Cicada Killer Wasp Nests

Cicada killer wasp nests are easy to identify because they look like small mounds of dirt with a hole in the center. The mounds can be up to six inches in diameter and over an inch high. You may also notice small piles of sand near the nest. If you see several cicada killer wasp nests in your yard, it's a sign that there is a large population of these insects in the area.

How to Control Cicada Killer Wasps

If you have a problem with cicada killer wasps, there are several steps you can take to control them:

1. Remove their Food Source

Cicada killer wasps feed on cicadas, so removing their food source can help control their population. You can use insecticides to kill cicadas in your yard or install physical barriers to prevent them from entering your property.

2. Destroy their Nests

The most effective way to control cicada killer wasps is to destroy their nests. You can do this by pouring boiling water into the holes or using insecticide dust. However, be careful when using insecticides, as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.

3. Use Traps

You can also use traps to catch cicada killer wasps. These traps work by luring the wasps with a bait and then trapping them inside a container. However, traps are not very effective in controlling large populations of cicada killer wasps.

4. Hire a Professional Pest Control Company

If you have a severe infestation of cicada killer wasps, it's best to hire a professional pest control company. They have the knowledge and equipment to safely remove the nests and control the population of these insects.

Preventing Cicada Killer Wasps from Returning

Once you have controlled the population of cicada killer wasps, you can take steps to prevent them from returning:

1. Remove Attractive Nesting Sites

Cicada killer wasps prefer to build their nests in sandy soil, so removing attractive nesting sites can discourage them from returning to your property. You can cover bare soil areas with mulch or plant groundcovers to make the soil less appealing to these insects.

2. Keep Your Lawn Well-Maintained

Regularly mowing your lawn and keeping it well-maintained can help prevent cicada killer wasps from building nests in your yard. These insects prefer to nest in grassy areas, so keeping your lawn short and tidy can make it less welcoming to them.

3. Seal Cracks and Holes

Cicada killer wasps can enter your home through small cracks and holes, so sealing these openings can prevent them from gaining access. Check your windows, doors, and walls for any gaps and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.

4. Plant Insect-Repellent Plants

You can also plant insect-repellent plants around your property to deter cicada killer wasps. Some plants that are known to repel these insects include marigolds, citronella, and eucalyptus.

Cicada killer wasps are fascinating insects that play an essential role in the ecosystem. However, if they become a nuisance, you can take steps to control their population and prevent them from returning. By removing their food source, destroying their nests, and taking preventive measures, you can keep your property free from these insects. Remember to always use caution when dealing with cicada killer wasps and never approach or disturb their nests.

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