Save $100.00 on Your Initial Pest Service* $100 OFF
*Terms and conditions apply - call for details

Tarantula Wasps

Pepsis SPP.
Request A Free Consultation Get Started
tarantula hawk in arizona

What do tarantula wasps look like?

Tarantula wasps, often called tarantula hawks, are large, black wasps with either black or orange wings and black antennae.  They have large bodies that measure over 2 inches long. 

When are tarantula wasps most active?

Very Active
Active
Not Active
January
Jan
February
Feb
March
Mar
April
Apr
May
May
June
Jun
July
Jul
August
Aug
September
Sep
October
Oct
November
Nov
December
Dec

Life cycle of the tarantula wasp

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 of tarantula wasps

  • 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.

Are tarantula wasps dangerous?

Tarantula wasps will sting bugs only if provoked. This wasp sting may produce pain. 

Where do tarantula wasps nest?

Tarantula wasps will not create nests but burrow in cracks and crevices, gaps in structures (especially the foundation), and into the soil of the ground. They may also use existing burrows. 

Helpful hints for tarantula wasps

Here are  few of our tarantula wasp prevention tips:

  • Relocate tarantulas you find on your property
  • Make sure window and door screens are free of tears and holes

Interesting facts about tarantula wasps

Roadrunners are predators of tarantula wasps.

How do you get rid of tarantula wasps?

For relief from tarantula wasps or other pests in and around your home or business, contact Northwest Exterminating!

termite control customers n tucson az

Testimonials

‟I would like to let Northwest Exterminating (Tucson, AZ.) know that your Service Technician (Joel) did an outstanding job in addressing my Termite issue, plus the courtesy shown me during his activities — Thank You Joel”
Robert K.
Tucson, AZ
Northwest Exterminating received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 586 reviews. 4.6 Read Google Reviews

Request Your FREE Estimate

Have questions or need help getting rid of tarantula wasps or other pests? Simply complete the form below or give us a call!

There was a problem with your submission. Please correct the issues below

or call now
Please wait…

Northwest Exterminating Blog & News

Read the latest articles & news
mouse inside a tucson home feeding on scraps left on kitchen table
November 18, 2024

Where Do Mice Hide In A House?

As a child, you may have watched and appreciated the fights that went on between cat and mouse in…
Read More
family celebrating thanksgiving in Arizona
November 5, 2024

Tips For A Pest-Free Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, and if you’re like most people, you’re either looking…
Read More
spider crawling on tucson home
October 21, 2024

Spiders May Not Be The Problem, But A Symptom

Finding spiders (or their webs) in your home is a problem. We know that one spider in your home is…
Read More