If you’ve ever seen a large and intimidating wasp in your backyard in Texas, you’re not alone. These big insects can be quite unnerving, but they’re actually beneficial for controlling other pest populations in your yard. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the most common huge wasps you might see in Texas, how to identify them, and what you should know about their behavior.
For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.
One of the largest wasps you might encounter in Texas is the cicada killer wasp. Despite its intimidating size, this wasp is usually harmless to humans. It’s named for its habit of hunting cicadas, which it stings and paralyzes before carrying them back to its nest to lay eggs on them. If you hear a loud buzzing sound overheard in your yard during the summer months, it could be a male cicada killer wasp patrolling his territory.
Another large wasp species you might see in Texas is the tarantula hawk wasp. This wasp is known for its bright orange wings and painful sting, which is one of the most potent of any insect in North America. As their name suggests, they hunt tarantulas by stinging them and dragging them back to their burrows. However, they typically only sting humans if provoked or threatened.
The great golden digger wasp is another large species of wasp that’s common in Texas. They have bright yellow markings on their bodies and are often found digging burrows in loose soil. They prey on grasshoppers, crickets, and other insects, which they paralyze with their venom before dragging them back to their burrows to feed their young.
To identify a huge wasp in Texas, start by looking at its size and coloration. Most huge wasps are larger than two inches in length and have distinct markings or color patterns on their body. You may also notice certain behaviors, such as hunting or digging, that can help you narrow down the species.
While huge wasps can be intimidating, they’re generally not aggressive towards humans unless provoked or threatened. If you find a wasp nest in your yard, it’s best to leave it alone rather than trying to remove it yourself. Instead, call a professional pest control company to safely and effectively handle the problem.
In conclusion, huge wasps are a common sight in many Texas backyards. While they can be intimidating, they play an important role in controlling other pests in your yard. By learning to identify these insects and understanding their behavior, you can coexist with them safely and appreciate their contribution to the ecosystem.