Quick Cicada Killer Wasp facts
1. Female cicada killers hunt adult cicadas in trees during summerFemale cicada killers hunt adult cicadas in trees during summer.
2. A sting paralyzes the cicada without killing itA sting paralyzes the cicada without killing it.
3. The wasp may glide downward carrying prey heavier than itself…The wasp may glide downward carrying prey heavier than itself before making shorter flights toward the nest.
4. Deep burrows contain several side chambers used as individual nurseriesDeep burrows contain several side chambers used as individual nurseries.
5. One or more cicadas are stored in a chamber before an egg is laidOne or more cicadas are stored in a chamber before an egg is laid.
6. The larva feeds on the immobilized prey and later pupates undergroundThe larva feeds on the immobilized prey and later pupates underground.
7. Males aggressively patrol nesting areas but have no stingersMales aggressively patrol nesting areas but have no stingers.
8. Despite their intimidating sizeDespite their intimidating size, females rarely sting people unless grabbed or stepped on.
9. Cicada Killer Wasp is an insect and therefore has six jointed legs as an adultCicada Killer Wasp is an insect and therefore has six jointed legs as an adult.
10. Its body follows the insect plan of headIts body follows the insect plan of head, thorax and abdomen.
11. Cicada Killer Wasp has a hard external skeleton made largely…Cicada Killer Wasp has a hard external skeleton made largely from chitin rather than an internal bony skeleton.
12. A pair of antennae provides important chemical and mechanical information…A pair of antennae provides important chemical and mechanical information about the surroundings.
13. Like other insects, Cicada Killer Wasp grows by molting because…Like other insects, Cicada Killer Wasp grows by molting because the rigid exoskeleton cannot expand continuously.
14. Oxygen reaches tissues through a branching tracheal system rather than…Oxygen reaches tissues through a branching tracheal system rather than being carried mainly by blood from lungs.
15. Compound eyes divide the visual field into many small units…Compound eyes divide the visual field into many small units and are especially effective at detecting movement.
16. As an ectotherm, Cicada Killer Wasp's activity level is strongly…As an ectotherm, Cicada Killer Wasp's activity level is strongly influenced by environmental temperature.
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Why cicada killer wasp are fascinating
Cicada killer wasps are huge solitary insects whose females drag paralyzed cicadas into underground nurseries. Looking at these traits together reveals how the animal solves the everyday challenges of feeding, movement, communication, reproduction and survival.
Frequently asked questions
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