Stinging Wasps : Hunting wasps
categories: Natural Enemies Stinging Wasps
last review date: 2025-08-23 06:11
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
Hunting wasps are solitary and rarely sting.
There are many species ranging in size from ½ to 1 ½ inches belonging to a number of families and each specializes in the kind of insect it hunts and preys on.
Some prey only on spiders, others on grasshoppers, others on caterpillars.
Prey is taken back to the usually mud nest and stored within it.
An egg is laid on the paralyzed prey which provides food for the developing larva.
Hunting wasps may be large and appear quite fearsome, but they are a definite asset to pest control in the home garden.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Spiders, grasshoppers, caterpillars, beetles, flies, mantids, bees, wasps
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.