Sphecius speciosus
Probable Male
One of the largest North American Wasps (30-40 mm)
Females catch and paralyze cicadas, often in flight.
For more information on this interesting wasp, see http://www.bugguide.net/node/view/514 Auburn, Alabama
Wow, Lew, this is a spectacular shot of this beautiful wasp! I remember seeing them for the first time. I was amazed by the size of them. I think I read that they are pretty docile which is a good thing considering their size. Can you imagine being stung by one of these?!?