Bugs that sting are broadly categorized as “wasps.” Cicada killers are just one species that are dominant in the area. As with all insects similar to them, they sustain the environment with their feeding and pollination habits. They’re still unwelcome though. Learn more about their potential hazards, and how Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma can intervene.
How Do Cicada Killers Look And Behave? What Are the Risks?
Cicada killers, are stinging insects also known as cicada hawks, are a substantial 2 to 3 inches long once they’ve reached adulthood. Males are typically smaller than their female counterparts. They have red or black bodies, with yellow markings along their segments. Transparent brown wings and six orange or red legs help get them around.
Since cicada killers are solitary wasps, they don’t congregate to build nests. Instead, they forge burrows in the ground to lay their eggs. Lawns and gardens are often destroyed as a result of their activities. They procreate in great numbers rather quickly, so these pests can be a nightmare for home and business owners. You’ll have to wait until the end of the mating year for them to die off. Males expire after mating, and the females go after they’ve released eggs and provided food for larvae. The only plus with these critters is that they consume cicadas; aggravating insects that are similar to locusts. Cicada killers prefer to be under the sun and begin working close to trees. You may also see their burrows near:
- Sandy spots, like playgrounds and golf courses
- Sparse vegetation
- Windows
- Sidewalks and concrete
- Foundations and structural voids
Available soil and dirt aren’t the only elements that could attract cicada killers to your land. These bugs munch on nectar, plant juices and fermented sap, greenery, and fellow insects. Only the females are capable of stinging targets. While they have an intimidating appearance, they aren’t very aggressive. So much so, that their pricks of humans are likely to be accidental. Further, they cause mild pain and their venom isn’t all that potent.
How Can You Prevent Cicada Killers?
Wasps such as cicada killers are difficult to manage because they thrive in natural settings. You can’t control the earth, but you can improve the management of your dwelling and yard. Here are the steps you’ll need to take:
- Make sure that your grass stays healthy; cicada killers are drawn to the barren land and dead matter.
- Cut the grass and trim greenery on a routine basis. Get rid of organic debris and trash. Close all ground holes.
- Sit gardens and woodpiles at least two feet away from the property.
- Wash out your gutters and vents regularly.
- Put trash in a secure container.
- Keep patios and decks clear; especially of food and sugar.
- Patch up gaps in concrete, foundations, windows, and doors.
- Contact Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma if you have critters cicada killers eat.
What Can Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma Do About Cicada Killers?
Frequently, commercial insecticides for cicada killers are expensive and too noxious. Look to us at Guaranteed Pest Service of Oklahoma for an effective, but safe solution. Our experienced technicians will locate susceptibilities and address them with appropriate granules, liquid applications, protective barriers, and more. You’ll receive a free estimate when you call today!
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