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Cicada killers

Scientific name: Sphecius

Cicada killers

Scientific name: Sphecius

Photo By judygva , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Description

Members of the genus Sphecius are often mistaken for aggressive predators due to their robust size and frequent buzzing. However, these solitary wasps are highly beneficial, particularly known for hunting cicadas. The females skillfully paralyze their prey with a sting, then bury them with their eggs as a live food supply for the larvae. This predatory behavior not only controls cicada populations but contributes significantly to soil aeration and nutrient cycling, showcasing an impressive example of nature鈥檚 pest control.

Species of Cicada killers

Eastern Cicada Killer

Photo By judygva , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Arthropods

Class

Bugs

Order

Bees

Family

Crabronid wasps

Genus

Cicada killers

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