What You Need To Know About Cicada Killers In The Kansas City Metro

August 15, 2022

Just their name alone is enough to evoke eerie images of scenes from a thriller movie. And even despite their enormous size illuminated by brown and yellow coloring, cicada killer wasps are incredibly harmless. They’re considered the “gentle giants of the wasp world.”  

With so many different wasp species, it’s difficult to remember their specific characteristics. That’s why it’s crucial to partner with your local pest control in the Kansas City metro to get better informed about the insects in our area, especially the cicada wasp.

Augustine Exterminators, Inc. can help you be proactive with pest management to prepare for wasp and bee season. Our highly experienced team of professionals has all the resources and tools at our fingertips to protect your home and property from nuisance pests.

cicada killer on flower

What Are Other Names For Cicada Killers?

Sphecius speciosus is the official name of what we know as a cicada killer but also known as:

  • Cicada Hawk
  • Giant Cicada Killer
  • Cicada Wasp
  • Sand Hornet

The nickname “sand hornet” is a misnomer as cicadas are not considered hornets. They are extremely large wasps sporting a dangerous-looking appearance and can fake a fierce attack by diving toward you at full speed. However, these insects are simply scoping out their surroundings, making sure you’re not a female cicada with which to mate. If you are concerned by an increase in cicada sightings, reach out to your local pest control in the greater Kansas City area, Overland Park, or surrounding cities to see how they can assist you.

Are Cicada Killers Common In The Kansas City Area?

Summertime brings bright sunshine and scorching temperatures and welcomes the arrival of a plethora of pests. Cicadas in greater Kansas City will be making their way to a park, sports field, or neighborhood near you. These insects commonly put our residents on edge because of their large size and ability to bite, even though they rarely attack humans. Our residents need to know how to identify cicadas, so check out the guide we provided below:    

  • Cicadas can grow up to three inches long.
  • Cicadas often fly close to the ground.
  • Cicadas have wings with thick veins and a yellow tint.
  • Cicadas come in an array of colors, from dark red to black. 
  • Cicadas have black and yellow stripes on their abdomens. 

Male cicadas are more aggressive than females; however, males do not have stingers and cannot harm you. Female cicada killers have stingers but are not known for displaying aggressive behavior.

Do Cicada Killers Sting Humans And If So, How Bad Does It Hurt?

Even though any wasp species can appear threatening, cicada wasps are not as aggressive or dangerous as their menacing counterparts, like yellow jackets. If you ever experience a cicada wasp sting, you may experience an allergic reaction at the most. Even though their venom paralyzes its prey, it’s virtually harmless to humans. The stings can be painful initially, but many individuals claim they’re less painful than a bee sting.     

There Are Cicada Killers Wrecking My Lawn! How Can I Get Rid Of Them?

Even though cicada killers are solitary insects who rarely attack people, you still should not attempt to remove them from your property without enlisting the help of a professional exterminating company, like Augustine Exterminators, Inc. We have been providing impeccable pest management services to Overland Park and the Kansas City metro area for more than 53 years. Satisfied customers have referred many customers to us, continuing our long-running record of success. 

Let us at Augustine Exterminators. Inc keep the Greater Kansas City area wasp-free, restoring peace of mind and comfort. Contact us today to request your free inspection.

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