The Eastern Cicada Killer is the largest wasp in eastern North America, reaching 2 inches, with black-and-yellow banding and a powerful, robust build. Despite its intimidating size, it is solitary and nonaggressive; males cannot sting and females rarely do unless physically restrained. Each female paralyzes cicadas with her sting, drags them to a burrow, and lays eggs on them for larvae to consume.
Habitat
Sandy lawns, golf courses, sports fields, and dry banks
Diet
Adults: nectar and plant juices. Larvae: paralyzed cicadas
How common
Common
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