Cicada-killer wasps are sometimes mistaken for hornets because of their impressive large size. However, there are no Hornets in Australia.

Appearance:

The Cicada-Killer wasp looks like a wasp but is about 4cm long

Habit:

The Cicada-Killer wasp is usually found in urban areas, forests and woodlands,

Diet:

Cicada-killer wasps hunt in the trees for cicadas, which feed on sap using their piercing mouth parts. Sometimes the cicada-killer wasp returns to the exact spot where it captured its prey to feed on the sap that now leaks from the hole made in the tree by the cicada.

Reproduction:

Cicada-killer wasp’s hunt in the trees for cicadas,once found, the wasp quickly stings and paralyzes its victim. The heavy burden is then flown or dragged to the wasp’s underground nest where an egg is laid on it. Having provided its unhatched larva with fresh food, the wasp then seals the nest.

Sting:

Cicada-killer wasps are large and have a potentially painful sting. However they are not aggressive and are very unlikely to use their venom on humans unless extremely provoked. The best advice is to leave them alone. An ice pack may be used to relieve the pain of the sting. If there is evidence of an allergic reaction, medical attention should be sought.
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