Stinging insects
Cicada killers: identification & cicada killer control
Cicada killers are huge but nearly harmless solitary wasps that dig burrows in bare, sandy soil. We treat the burrows where activity is unacceptable and advise on turf density to prevent return.
How to identify cicada killers
- What it looks like
- Very large black wasps with yellow abdominal bands and rusty wings.
- Size
- 1.5 to 2 inches
- Where you'll find it
- Bare sandy soil, sidewalk edges, sand traps, flower beds and under patios.
- Commonly confused with
- European hornets are smaller and nest communally.
Signs of cicada killers in your home
- Pencil-width holes with soil fans in the lawn
- Huge wasps hovering low over turf
- Paralyzed cicadas dragged to burrows
Cicada killers questions homeowners ask
Are cicada killers dangerous?
Males cannot sting and females rarely do — they are alarming but not aggressive.
Cicada killer control by city
Local technicians handle cicada killers in every market below — pick your city for neighborhood coverage, seasonal notes and a free quote.
Cicada killer control in Austin, TXCicada killer control in Boise, IDCicada killer control in Charlotte, NCCicada killer control in Charlotte, NCCicada killer control in Colorado Springs, COCicada killer control in Columbus, OHCicada killer control in Columbus, OHCicada killer control in Greensboro, NCCicada killer control in Indianapolis, INCicada killer control in Jacksonville, FLCicada killer control in Kansas City, MOCicada killer control in Louisville, KYCicada killer control in Memphis, TNCicada killer control in Miami, FLCicada killer control in Nashville, TNCicada killer control in Oklahoma City, OKCicada killer control in Omaha, NECicada killer control in Phoenix, AZCicada killer control in Raleigh, NCCicada killer control in Richmond, VACicada killer control in San Antonio, TXCicada killer control in Tulsa, OK