Well, let me tell you about my personal experience with cicada killers and their nests. I had the opportunity to observe a nest in my backyard last summer, and it was quite fascinating.
From what I observed, there were indeed multiple chambers within the nest, and each chamber had its own cicada wasp and wasp egg. I estimated that there were around 16 chambers in total, but it’s important to note that this number can vary depending on the specific nest.
In each chamber, there was a paralyzed cicada wasp. These wasps are known for hunting and paralyzing cicadas, which they then use as a food source for their offspring. The paralyzed cicada serves as a fresh meal for the growing larvae.
Once the wasp egg hatches, the larvae emerges and begins to feed on the paralyzed cicada. It’s quite a gruesome sight, but it’s a natural part of the wasp’s life cycle.
After the larvae has consumed enough food, it pupates and undergoes metamorphosis. During this time, the wasp hibernates within the nest as an immature adult. This stage is similar to the pupal stage in other insects, where the organism undergoes dramatic changes to transform into its adult form.
I found it truly fascinating to witness this intricate process within the nest. It’s a testament to the complexity and adaptability of nature. Each chamber serves as a separate nursery for the developing wasp, ensuring that there is enough food and space for each individual.
The number of cicada killers living in a nest can vary, but it’s not uncommon to find around 16 chambers within a nest, each containing a paralyzed cicada wasp and a wasp egg. It’s a remarkable sight to witness and a reminder of the rich diversity of life around us.