Western Cicada Killer vs Balsam Fir Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Cicada Killer | Balsam Fir Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sphecius grandis | Neodiprion abietis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Crabronidae | Diprionidae |
| Size | 30-55 mm | 6-8 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Forests |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Western United States from the Great Plains to the Pacific coast | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Western Cicada Killer
A massive solitary wasp of the American West that hunts cicadas to provision its underground burrows. It is slightly larger and paler than its eastern relative.
Did You Know?
Despite its intimidating size, it is generally docile toward humans and males cannot sting at all.
Balsam Fir Sawfly
A boreal sawfly whose dark green larvae with lighter stripes feed on balsam fir needles. Periodic outbreaks can cause significant defoliation in fir forests.
Did You Know?
Outbreaks of this species often follow those of the spruce budworm, as the already stressed trees are more susceptible to additional defoliation.