Insects and Spiders - native

Western Cicada-killer Wasp (Sphecius grandis) on Jul 21, 2021

Originally reported as Northern Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia)

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

A very large hornet with orange eyes was found at our campsite by the river. We have been there many times and have never seen a hornet like this. It reminded me of those I have seen in China. I preserved the insect and have it in a zip loc bag. I am not qualified to be able to determine the exact type of hornet.

Commentary

Dear Brian, thank you for your submission. Luckily, this is not the invasive Asian giant hornet but our native western cicada killer wasp, Sphecius grandis. This summer, we have seen a significant increase in cicada wasps in eastern and central Oregon associated with increasing numbers of native cicadas. They are harmless to people. Thank you, Helmuth

Helmuth Rogg
July 21, 2021, 6 a.m.

Resources

Western Cicada-killer Wasp information on iNaturalist

Location

Next to the Deschutes river on a leaf. We were at Lokit campsite by the water when it flew by us.

Expert Reviewer

Mr. Helmuth Rogg

© 2024 Portland State University | Contact us for questions regarding site content