Insects and Spiders - native

Cicada Killer Wasps (unknown species) (Sphecius spp.) on Aug 14, 2022

Originally reported as Northern Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

I noticed it on the side of my green waste bin as I was rolling it to the street. I knew nothing about this insect but was shocked at it's size (1.5") and the bright orange and long wings. I gently pushed it off the bin and it landed on the ground. It appeared sluggish and didn't fly. When I returned a minute later, it was gone. Really wish I had taken a picture.

Commentary

Thank you for your report! No Asian giant hornets have been found in Oregon yet. Most reports this year have turned out to be Cicada killer wasps (genus Sphecius), very large native wasps that are not usually aggressive. Because you noticed orange wings, I am guessing that you saw a Cicada killer. I'm attaching a graphic that shows some differences between Cicada killers and Asian giant hornets. Thank you for being on the lookout!

Tom Valente
Aug. 15, 2022, 1:21 a.m.

Location

Asian Hornet seen on my property located at 121945 SE Flavel Street, Portland 97236 on 8-14-22 at approximately 3:45 PM. This property is mostly surrounded by forest. The lawn and surrounding forest has many holes in the ground from moles.

Expert Reviewer

Tom Valente
Oregon Department of Agriculture

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