ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Eastern Cicada Killer Wasps have been spotted in Albuquerque, according to the City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department.
The large wasps, which are common across North America and in New Mexico during the summer months, may look intimidating but pose little threat to humans. Females hunt cicadas and bring them back to underground burrows for their offspring to feed on.
These wasps can grow up to 2.5 inches long and are often heard buzzing around. Despite their size and sound, officials say they are not aggressive toward people.
“Cicada Killers are only interested in cicadas, not humans,” the department posted online. “They are only known to sting humans in defense of themselves, so if you leave them alone, they’ll leave you alone.”
Residents are advised not to disturb the wasps if encountered.
