These large, solitary wasps can trigger alarm due to their imposing size and noisy flight, but their role in the ecosystem and low risk to humans make them unique among summer pests. Understanding their behaviors, impact and effective management strategies is key to helping your clients protect their lawns and peace of mind. 

Identification and General Information

Cicada killer wasps are among the largest wasps in North America, with females reaching up to 2 inches long. They’re recognized by their black bodies with yellow markings, rusty-red wings and striking size. Unlike social wasps, cicada killer wasps are solitary and generally non-aggressive. 

Their life cycle is tied closely to cicadas, which they paralyze and bring back to underground burrows as food for their larvae. Adults emerge in mid to late summer, mate and the females begin the search for nesting sites – typically sandy or loose soil in sunny, open areas. 

Common Customer Concerns

To the untrained eye, cicada killer wasps can be easily mistaken for yellow jackets or hornets. Their loud buzz and aggressive aerial movements often create unnecessary panic. Homeowners may worry about: 

• Stings – While males act territorial, they can’t sting. Females will only sting if directly threatened.
• Burrow Damage – Females dig tunnels that can disrupt lawns, flower beds and even crack paver joints in hardscapes. 
• Children and Pets – The presence of these wasps in recreational areas can raise valid concerns for families. 

As a pest pro, addressing these fears with facts and solutions is essential.

Inspection and Assessment

Start with a thorough inspection to identify the signs of cicada killer activity. Look for:

• Soil disturbances or holes about the size of a quarter, often with a small mound of dirt at the entrance
• Increased wasp activity near sunny, well-drained soils – especially near sidewalks, patios or sparse turf
• Sightings of cicadas being dragged into burrows

These indicators help determine the extent of the infestation and whether treatment is necessary. 

Control and Management Strategies

Landscape Management    

Cicada killer wasps prefer bare or lightly vegetated areas with sandy or loose soil. Maintaining dense turf, mulching exposed areas and regularly watering lawns can deter nesting. 

Chemical Control

In some cases, targeted insecticide applications may be necessary. For best results: 

• Apply dust or granular insecticides directly into active burrow entrances in the early morning or evening when wasps are less active. 
• For broader control, apply residual insecticides to nesting zones to prevent further digging. 

Recommended SiteOne Products

• LESCO® Crosscheck Plus Liquid Insecticide
• LESCO® Crosscheck EZ Granular Insecticide
• LESCO® Allectus Fertilizer/Insecticide
• Talstar PL Granular Insecticide
• DeltaDust Insecticide
• Demand CS

Always follow label instructions and ensure timing aligns with peak female activity – typically occurring mid to late summer as they actively dig burrows, hunt cicadas and fill their nests with paralyzed prey – for maximum impact. 

Communication Tips for Clients

Client education can transform fear into understanding. Use these strategies: 

• Reassure: Emphasize the low sting risk and solitary nature of these wasps. 
• Educate: Share their role in controlling cicada populations and their ecological value. 
• Explain Options: Detail landscape modifications, treatment methods and expected outcomes. 
• Set Expectations: Remind clients that cicada killer wasps are seasonal, and with the right strategy, populations can be greatly reduced or prevented entirely.

Cicada killer wasps may look alarming, but with the right knowledge and tools, pest control professionals can confidently assess the situation and implement tailored solutions. By understanding their habits and addressing customer concerns with professionalism and empathy, you can turn a seasonal nuisance into a service opportunity. 

Partner with SiteOne for expert recommendations and trusted products to keep properties protected and customers satisfied all summer long.