Tarantula Wasp
Physical Features
Tarantula Wasp, often called Tarantula Hawk, are large, black wasps with either black or orange wings. They have large bodies over 2 inches long. They have black antennae.
Life Cycle
Complete Metamorphosis
The female will hunt for a tarantula spider to serve as food for the larva. She will sting the spider causing its permanent paralysis. The spider (if not already inside of its burrow) will be dragged into the hole. She will lay an egg on the spider and seal the burrow. The larva will hatch attaching to the spider and sucks out the internal fluid over a period of several months.
Habits
- Diet: A Nectivorous. Adults feed on nectar from fruit or flowers.
- Activity: Dusk or nighttime
- Preferred Climate: Dry, warm climates
- Defense: Large size and aposematic markings
- Cautions: Painful stings if agitated.
- Home Invasion: These cockroaches are often known as sewer roaches and are primarily found outdoors. They occasionally enter homes. Rarely found inside.
Helpful Hints for Control
- Relocate tarantulas if they are found on your property.
- Ensure window and door screens are tightly sealed to avoid accidental entry into the home.
Interesting Fact
Roadrunners are predators of the Tarantula Wasp.
Symptoms
Bee stings can produce different reactions, ranging from temporary pain and discomfort to a severe allergic reaction. Having one type of reaction doesn’t mean you’ll always have the same reaction every time you’re stung. Bee stings are minor and usually include an instant, sharp pain at the sting site. A small, white spot where the stinger punctured the skin will appear with slight swelling around the area. In most cases, the pain will disappear within a few hours. Sometimes anaphylaxis can occur, which is a severe allergic reaction. This includes hives, pale skin, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, a weak and rapid pulse, dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
