Dealing with Eastern Cicada Killers in Your Backyard
Despite their intimidating appearance, Eastern Cicada Killers are generally harmless to humans. Here are things you should know if you find them in your backyard.
Understand Their Behavior
Before taking action, it's essential to understand that Eastern Cicada Killers are solitary wasps and are not aggressive towards humans. Females are busy hunting cicadas to provision their nests and rarely sting unless provoked. Males, which do not have stingers, may display territorial behavior but pose no real threat.
Non-Chemical Deterrents
If you want to discourage Cicada Killers from nesting in specific areas, here are some non-chemical methods you can use:
Maintain a Thick Lawn: Cicada Killers prefer bare or sparsely vegetated soil. Keeping your lawn healthy and well-maintained can make it less attractive for them to burrow.
Mulch and Ground Cover: Apply mulch or plant ground cover in areas you don't want them to nest; this makes the soil less suitable for burrowing.
Watering: Regularly watering the soil can make it more compact and less desirable for nesting.
Netting or Landscape Fabric: Cover the soil with netting or landscape fabric to prevent females from digging burrows.
When to contact a Pest Control Specialist
Persistent Burrowing in High-Traffic Areas: If Eastern Cicada Killers repeatedly burrow in areas where people frequently walk, play, or work, such as near patios, playgrounds, or walkways, it might be necessary to contact a pest specialist.
Allergic Reactions: If you or someone in your household has a known allergy to wasp stings, it's prudent to get a consultation.
Large Infestations: Usually, Eastern Cicada Killers are solitary or found in small numbers. However, if you notice many of these wasps and their burrows concentrated in a small area, it might be worth getting professional advice.
Structural Concerns: If the wasps are burrowing near the foundations of buildings, driveways, or other structures, their activity could cause damage over time.
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