The Cicada Killer Wasp by Richardphotos

Photography • Insects • posted on Jul 26, 2019

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Description

Few insects can compare with the alarm caused by Cicada Killer Wasps—Sphecius speciosus. These large solitary wasps are also known as Giant Cicada Killers or Sand Hornets. This last common name is a misnomer because they are not true hornets. Despite their very large size, dangerous appearance and "dive-bombing" habit, adults rarely contact people or sting. In fact, the "dive-bombing" male does not even have a stinger and is merely faking a fierce attack. The ovipositor of the female is a tubular egg-laying structure that can function as a very weak stinger. Her mild sting is similar in feel to a slight pin scratch and is not considered painful. Nonetheless, without accurate identification and knowledge, this menacing "bluff" often succeeds in causing fear, anxiety and occasional panic. https://njaes.rutgers.edu/fs040/ I got lucky as I had went out to kill some ants and seen this humongous Cicada Killer Wasp. it held still long enough to get two shots

Comments (13)

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RodS

9:23PM | Fri, 26 July 2019

I think I was in 5th or 6th grade, and I had one of these big fellows in a jar.. My friends freaked out when I reached in and picked it up... It sat in my hand for a few moments, then I let it fly off.. Very cool insects (unless you're a cicada)! Great shot of it, Richard!

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