Monday, August 9, 2010

KTRS 550 Inside Out Show Bonus Blog -answer to "Giant Dragon Flyish bug in my garage"

by MaryAnn Fink
Conservation Specialist
copyright 2010



What is buggin Jim : Caller inquired about giant dragon flyish looking insect-not near water-flying into his garage- here is a possible answer!)





Cicada killers (Sphecius speciosus) are related to mud daubers or dirt daubers on the wasp family tree. They average greater than one inch in length and are recognized by their amber-colored wings and yellow/orange/black bodies. Cicada killers' size leads one to believe that they are aggressive and dangerous. They are frequently seen zooming around just above the grass or soil and sometimes they are observed crashing into windows.



These patrolling behaviors are exhibited by the male cicada killer. Males patrol territories for females and will chase other males away; hence the window-crashing behavior when they see their reflection. Above all of this, male cicada killers do not possess a stinger and, therefore, cannot sting.


For more information click here!

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