Just below the answer to number 6 on the Schmidt pain scale are the stings of this insect, the several species of which belong to the genera Pepsis or Hemipepsis. As adults, these wasps feed on nectar, a decidedly nice change from their larval diet where their dining is careful to avoid the major organs of their host, in order to leave food for its pupae state. Identify this large black to purple colored wasp, one species of which is the state insect of New Mexico, and which is known for its epic jousts with a non-insect arthropod, which it will paralyze and lay its egg on. (edited at 2:57 pm, October 2, 2016 (PDT))
Original question: Just below the answer to number 6 on the Schmidt pain scale are the stings of this insect, the several species of which belong to the genera Pepsis or Hemipepsis. As adults, these wasps feed on nectar, a decidedly nice change from their larval diet where their dining is careful to avoid the major organs of their host, in order to leave food for its pupae state. Identify this large black to purple colored wasp, one species of which is the state insect of New Mexico, and which is known for its epic jousts with a non-insect arthropod, which it will paralyze and lay its egg.
Tarantula Hawk (or tarantula hunter wasps)