Inspect
Find where the pest is entering, breeding, or harboring on the property.
Pest Education • DFW Pest Control
Cicada Killer Control in DFW
The huge wasp dive-bombing your lawn in summer is likely a cicada killer, alarming but nearly harmless. Learn what to do.
Family-OwnedVeteran-OwnedSince 2016
Reviewed and updated June 2026
At a Glance
Cicada killers are large solitary wasps that burrow in bare, sunny soil. They rarely sting people, and lawn care usually solves the nuisance.
Quick Facts
- Look: Very large; black and yellow markings
- Behavior: Solitary; males patrol but cannot sting
- Burrows: Bare, sunny, sandy soil and slopes
- Concern: Intimidating but rarely sting people
What Are Cicada Killers?
Cicada killers are among the largest wasps in Texas and look alarming, but they are solitary and not aggressive toward people. Males are territorial and may buzz close, but they have no stinger; females can sting but rarely do unless handled.
Females dig burrows in bare, sunny, well-drained soil, provisioning each with a paralyzed cicada for their young, which is where the name comes from.
How to Manage Cicada Killers
Because they are beneficial and barely a threat, the goal is usually to make the lawn less inviting for burrowing rather than aggressive treatment.
- Thicken thin or bare turf, since they avoid dense grass.
- Water and mulch bare, sandy patches and slopes where they dig.
- Avoid swatting at patrolling males, which cannot sting.
- Treat persistent burrow areas only if activity is heavy in high-traffic spots.
Treat the Source
Match the approach to the pest and conditions, not just the ones you see.
Explore services →Prevent Return
Reduce moisture, food, and entry points so the problem does not come back.
Request an estimate →Treatments are selected and applied per their labels. Tell us about children, pets, edible gardens, beehives, and other sensitive areas before service, and follow all preparation and re-entry instructions. More on pet- and pollinator-conscious treatment →
Common Questions
Are cicada killers dangerous?
Rarely. Males that patrol cannot sting, and females sting only if handled. They are far less of a threat than yellow jackets or hornets.
Why are they digging holes in my yard?
Females burrow in bare, sunny, sandy soil to nest. Thickening the turf and covering bare patches makes the area less attractive.
Do I need to treat for cicada killers?
Often not. Improving the lawn usually resolves it. Treatment is reserved for heavy activity in high-traffic areas.
Sources & Further Reading
Guidance changes over time. Follow current product labels and local recommendations. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
Need Help With Cicada Killer?
Call or email for a free estimate. We’ll recommend an approach that fits your property.