TOPEKA (KSNT) - A garden expert with Kansas State University is warning homeowners to be on the lookout for cicada killer wasps which are becoming more active as summer comes to a close.
Cynthia Domenghini, a horticulture expert with K-State, said in a recent publication from the university that Kansans should be prepared for run-ins with the big wasps as they begin building nests in lawn and garden areas. However, people shouldn't be afraid of the insects as they're on the hunt for other prey.
“At about one and a half inches long, cicada killers are an intimidating wasp," Domenghini said. "They have reddish colored wings and legs and a black abdomen with wide, yellow stripes."
The killer wasps are after cicadas. Females of the species bear large stingers used to paralyze cicadas but they rarely attack people with them.
“The female is responsible for locating cicadas and paralyzing them with her stinger," Domenghini said. "She then carries the cicada back to her burrow. Each burrow can house up to 20 cicadas."
Domenghini said adult killer wasps are most active during June and July before they start to die off in the fall. The biggest issue caused by their presence is when they gather in large numbers near places where people are.
“Cicada killers typically cause very little damage to the landscape," Domenghini said. "A heavy infestation may become a nuisance as they protect their nests, and the burrows may be considered unsightly, especially in a lawn area."
The wasps prefer well-drained and light soils which receive full sun. Burrows may be found along sidewalks or flowerbeds in and around the house.
"Maintaining a thick, healthy lawn is the best control for preventing burrows," Domenghini said.
Domenghini recommends not using pesticides as adult killer wasps are only around for about two months in mid- to late summer. You can send yard and garden questions to Domenghini using cdom@ksu.edu.
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