These large solitary wasps are also known as Giant Cicada Killers or Sand Hornets. This last common name is a misnomer because they are not true hornets. Despite their very large size, dangerous appearance and "dive-bombing" habit, adults rarely contact people or sting.

The Cicada Killer Wasp stings Cicada (locusts) to paralyze them and feed them to the larvae. Many of the developing larvae may come out as adults the following year, so the numbers increase year by year. It is important to prevent and stop this cycle to get rid of Cicada Killers. An effective method for this is to use an insecticide granule.

Cicada killers or ground hornets are wasps that make their homes in the ground. These wasps have the scientific name Sphecius speciosus. Their primary benefit is that they maintain control over the cicada population. Because of this, they live near the trees where cicadas feed.