Exeirus lateritius
Family Sphecidae
Cicada Killer Wasps are medium to large wasps that share many behavioural and physical characteristics with Spider Wasps.
Medium to large orange and dark brown wasps. Nest singly in holes in ground.
The adult wasps feed on nectar, but the larvae eat cicadas. Consequently, the adult females hunt for cicadas to paralyse and place them in the nest for the larvae to feed on. Female wasps from this family may often be seen dragging cicadas to their underground nests. The nests are sealed once the paralysed prey has been placed inside.
Sometimes the Cicada Killer Wasp returns to where it captured its prey to feed on sap leaking from the hole made in the tree by the cicada.
The females can sting but stings are not common. As they are solitary insects, cicada killer wasps do not pose the same level of threat to humans as social species of bees, ants or wasps do. However, unlike bees, wasps can sting more than once, and do not die after stinging. The sting causes a burning pain and swelling. If stings are multiple, a more severe systemic reaction may occur.
In some individuals, wasp, bee and ant stings can cause an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), but this is relatively uncommon. Effective treatment is available, which involves known bee/ant/wasp sting allergy sufferers carrying a special kit when outdoors. Immunotherapy or desensitisation is also available, and can reduce the severity of the allergy.
A cold pack may be used to relieve the pain of the sting. If there is evidence of a more severe reaction or the sting victim is known to be allergic to wasp and bee venom, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Copyright © Australian Museum, 2003
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