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Cicada Killer Wasps: Should You Be Concerned?

Every summer, Bug Bust Pest & Termite receives calls from homeowners who are alarmed by the sight of large wasps flying low over their lawns. These insects are usually Eastern Cicada Killer Wasps (Sphecius speciosus), one of the largest native wasps found in New Jersey. Their size and loud flight make them intimidating, but their behavior is often misunderstood.

What Are Cicada Killer Wasps?

Cicada killer wasps are solitary wasps that prey almost exclusively on cicadas. Unlike yellowjackets or paper wasps, they do not live in large colonies with thousands of workers. Each female builds her own underground nest in well-drained soil, captures cicadas, and places them in individual chambers as food for her developing larvae.

Although they resemble giant hornets, cicada killers are beneficial insects because they help naturally reduce cicada populations.

Why Are They Digging Holes in My Lawn?

One of the first signs homeowners notice is small mounds of loose soil scattered throughout the yard.

Female cicada killer wasps excavate tunnels that may extend several inches into the ground, pushing soil to the surface as they dig. They prefer:

Sunny areas
Well-drained sandy soil
Thin or patchy lawns
Bare ground around sidewalks, patios, and driveways

A few burrows usually cause only cosmetic damage. However, when many females nest in the same area year after year, the digging can become much more noticeable and affect the appearance of the lawn.

Are Cicada Killer Wasps Dangerous?

Fortunately, they are not considered aggressive toward people.

Male cicada killers often fly aggressively around anyone entering their territory, but they cannot sting. Females are capable of stinging, but they are generally focused on hunting cicadas and rarely sting unless they are handled or stepped on.

Why Does the Problem Often Get Worse Each Year?

This is one of the questions I hear most often.

When favorable nesting conditions remain unchanged, cicada killer wasps frequently return to the same area season after season. As new generations emerge, additional females may establish burrows nearby, leading to a gradual increase in the number of nesting holes.

The best long-term solution is not simply treating the wasps—it is making the area less attractive for nesting by improving turf density, reducing bare soil, and modifying landscape conditions where practical. Extension guidance emphasizes that landscape changes are the most effective long-term approach when recurring activity becomes a problem.

From the Inspector

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that every large wasp needs immediate extermination. Cicada killer wasps are actually very different from yellowjackets or hornets. Most homeowners call because the wasps look frightening, not because they've been stung.

Where I usually recommend treatment is when numerous burrows are developing in highly visible areas of the lawn, around walkways, or where children and pets frequently play. If nesting activity is ignored, the same favorable areas often attract new nesting females in future seasons, making the problem more noticeable each year.

The goal isn't simply to eliminate the wasps—it's to reduce the conditions that make your property attractive for nesting in the first place.

– Dan Sokolow, Owner | Licensed Pest Control Applicator | State Licensed Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor

Cicada Killer Wasp Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Cicada killer wasps are extremely aggressive.

Fact: Despite their intimidating size, cicada killer wasps are generally not aggressive toward people. Males may appear territorial but cannot sting, and females usually sting only when directly threatened.

Myth: They destroy healthy lawns.

Fact: Their burrows can create small mounds of loose soil and become unsightly when many are present, but the primary issue is cosmetic rather than widespread turf destruction.

Myth: If I leave them alone this year, there won't be any next year.

Fact: If favorable nesting conditions remain, cicada killer wasps often return to the same areas, and populations may increase over time. Improving the landscape to reduce attractive nesting sites is an important part of long-term management.

Myth: They are giant hornets.

Fact: Cicada killer wasps are native solitary wasps and are frequently mistaken for hornets because of their size. Their behavior and biology are very different.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If cicada killer wasps are becoming established around your home, creating numerous burrows in your lawn, or making outdoor areas uncomfortable to use, a professional inspection can help determine the best management strategy.

At Bug Bust Pest & Termite, we evaluate not only the current activity but also the landscape conditions that encourage future nesting. Our goal is to provide practical, long-term solutions that help protect both your lawn and your family's enjoyment of outdoor spaces.