Cicada Killer, Beautiful in Death by TomDart
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
The body of a Cicada Killer Wasp was found on the curb of a side road behind my work place. Holding this magnificient creature in my hand, I saw the intricate nature of its eyes and the beauty of those amber wings. This insect had finished the life cycle. Rarely do we get such a close view.
I have seen one take a Cicada from a high branch and drop several meters while adjusting for flight, then off it went with the prey for its young.
This is a very large wasp. The one pictured is estimated about 50mm(2 inches)long. The abdomen alone is over 25mm(1 inch).
To me, even in death, this is a beautiful creation.

Comments (18)
I agree. This is a fantastic presentation. Aloha
Holy cow, 2 inches long WOW. Very interesting information and photo, thanks!
Geez, that's a huge cicada murder! Awesome capture - great info - thanks
Tom! This is a very interesting find, even in dead looks so powerfull. I like a wings " stained glass " pattern with that nearly transparent honey color.
They are a vision! I've seen them around and they're huge in comparison to other wasps. I've never seen one up close and personal like this. Excellent closeup.
This is a big bug. I would freak if I saw it though lol. Its sad that it is dead, very orginal photograph, taken from a different view on life. The position reminds me of the fetal position humans use to protect their organs... great shot, thanx for sharing and the info on it :-)
It is a nice looking creature, though they are kinda frightening.I think you do really nice at this close up photography.
A superb presentation - well lit with good dof, I think the creatures pose makes the image have visual appeal and then I notice the detail. A beautiful creature indeed as so many of the insect world are.
Just great erland
Excellent photo and presentation I can see the details... very clear, Very well done
Beautiful presentation and color!
I only recently learned about this insects. I had seen the entrances to their underground burrows? and asked my husband what they were. Very interesting capture!
yes, it is truly beautiful. Sad to see it dead, but it is photographed beautifully, and in excellent taste.
Interesting presentation, I am not to fond of Insects, but this is very nice. I like the white background there fore the color of the Insect really stands out. Nice!
Wow! Excellent find Thomas, stunning capture too! Beautiful macro photography my friend! Have a fantastic day!
Very beautiful and original photo. Not a big fan of any kind of wasp, but I can acknowledge the beauty of this one.
So beautiful, and so deadly (to cicadas). Perhaps the cicada godfather ordered a 'hit' on this one.... With stinger extended, a sight to be feared, even in death! Thank you for including the lengths for reference. Outstanding subject and composition!
Nice shot! But...seeing one of those would totally freak me out. I don't like insects, I know some are useful but they are all creapy to me.