The cicada killer wasps attract attention due to their large size, the burrows that they dig in home lawns, and their buzzing flights over the lawn. These insects occur in all states east of the Rocky Mountains and prefer to dig their burrows in sandy, bare, well-drained soil exposed to full sunlight. The wasps feed on flower nectar, while the immature or larval stage feeds primarily upon cicadas that are brought to the burrow by the adult. In spite of their large size, the wasps usually ignore people, but they can give a painful sting if bothered. Mating males are aggressive and more easily disturbed.
Control
Cultural practices can prevent or eliminate the establishment of cicada killer colonies. Adequate lime and fertilizer applications, accompanied by frequent watering, promote a thick growth of turf and can usually eliminate a cicada killer wasp infestation in one or two seasons. In case of severe infestation, chemical control may be necessary to prevent danger from stinging wasps. You may want to take a look at the following Cooperative Extension publication from the University of Kentucky: Cicada Killer Wasps.
