Photo by Nikola Bačanek

Originally Posted On: https://resultpestcontrol.com/flying-insects/what-is-a-tarantula-hawk/

Arachnophobia is no joke, with some studies indicating that this fear is more prevalent in European countries and among those with European ancestry.

However, have you ever thought about what spiders fear?

Among the few spider predators that exist, the tarantula hawk is definitely one that haunts a tarantula’s nightmares. Incidentally, the tarantula hawk was also chosen as New Mexico’s state insect in 1989!

Also known as the pompilid wasps or spider hunting wasps, they have one of the most painful stings in all of North America. But don’t be afraid; they’re a tarantula’s worst enemy, not yours!

Let’s dive into a few more facts about this metallic blue critter.

Tarantula hawks grow up to two and a half inches in length, known for being one of the largest wasps. While they generally do not attack humans unless provoked, you can bet that their stings are indeed powerful, with the ability to inflict intense pain.

They are generally solitary creatures, and the males are smaller than the female wasps. With black antennae, a powerful sting, and hooked claws, these wasps are ready to fight and take down tarantulas that come their way.

While the adult wasp feeds on nectar, the young require protein derived from tarantulas to grow.

The females search their ground for tarantulas, and when they do find one, they stroke their webs, leading the tarantula to believe that it has caught prey. After the tarantula comes in search of its prey, the female wasp stings the spider and drags it back to its burrow, where she will then lay an egg inside it.

The tarantula’s venom has no impact on the wasp.

After the egg has hatched, the larva burrows through the spider’s abdomen, eating it alive. Now, if the larva were to feed off the organs first, the meat would not stay fresh for long, leaving the wasp larva unsatisfied. That is why all vital organs are avoided until the very end.

Where are you most likely to find a tarantula hawk nest?

Tarantula hawks are naturally more inclined to find places that are home to tarantulas. To minimize your chances of attracting these wasps, make sure to avoid plants that attract both the wasps as well as the spiders.

Your lawn or pruned garden is not likely to draw in tarantulas. Additionally, plants like basil, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, and mint are known for their ability to repel spiders.

While these wasps aren’t particularly harmful to humans, the tarantula hawk sting is definitely something you want to avoid. If you or someone you know has a wasp problem, it might be time to get the experts involved.

At Results Pest Control, we are dedicated to keeping your home wasp and pest-free. Get in touch with us today to request a quote and learn more about what we can do to eliminate insects from your home!