The Great Black Wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus) is a striking insect. It has a glossy black body, a slender form with a noticeable waist, and smoky-colored wings that can exhibit iridescent blue or purple hues in sunlight. Unlike social wasps, the Great Black Wasp is solitary, meaning it does not live in large colonies or defend a communal nest. This solitary nature contributes to its generally docile temperament, making it less aggressive towards humans.
Geographical Distribution
The Great Black Wasp is widely distributed across much of North America. Its native range primarily covers the contiguous United States and extends into northern Mexico. This species is found on both the East and West Coasts. During the late 20th century, its range expanded northward to include Canadian provinces such as Quebec and Ontario. While common across eastern and central North America, the Great Black Wasp is generally not found in the Pacific Northwest region.
Preferred Environments
The Great Black Wasp seeks out specific environments for foraging and hunting. These wasps frequently inhabit sunny, open areas, including fields, meadows, and prairies. Such landscapes provide ample space to pursue prey and locate nectar sources. The Great Black Wasp is also a common sight in gardens, particularly those rich in flowering plants, as adult wasps rely on nectar for sustenance.
They can also be found along the edges of wooded areas, where there is a blend of open ground and vegetation. In certain coastal regions, sand dunes offer suitable conditions. The availability of abundant prey, such as grasshoppers and katydids, for their larvae, and diverse floral resources for adults, are key factors influencing their preference for these environments.
Nesting Sites
Female Great Black Wasps construct nests by digging burrows directly into the ground. They prefer dry, well-drained soil, with sandy or loamy compositions particularly favored. Nesting sites are typically located in sunny areas with loosely packed soil and often sparse vegetation.
To create their homes, the female wasp excavates tunnels, sometimes reaching depths of up to a foot, using her strong mandibles and legs. She carries excavated soil away from the burrow entrance to maintain a clear path. Each nest is composed of several cells, each provisioned with a single egg and paralyzed prey, such as katydids or grasshoppers, which serve as food for the developing larva. Once a cell is fully provisioned, the female seals it to protect the growing larva.