![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0U8Gc3RoWDxhuReaNNvPIBJRzbJmiHdvfPdMr7WaoWiGtIUTq-wtQRFv0tXDH1E6iKi35btxadbNuYYEuT0YxwYAXozYQPXTN9ExD_kM8QL7Cba_V8N55-3wFQ6N4jE8BNr0CL_cQ_axl/s1600/first.jpg) |
The great black wasp, Sphex pensylvanicus. |
The great black wasp is my absolutely favorite wasp -- for two reasons. First, it is beautiful: jet-black with blue and purple reflections in its wings. Second, it is thrilling to see one because they are so big. I always have a moment before I recognize it, when my subconscious tells me to run away. I know they are not aggressive but it takes a few seconds to overcome my instinct.
They are called
great because they are so big -- up to almost an inch and a half long. I see them in my Brooklyn neighborhood from July through October. I've written about them before (
click here to read an earlier blog) but I saw the one in the photos today and was reminded how much I like them and how pleased I am to see them every summer.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4gcPpvrtpUPDuEvX_n7lm39K2p4pU85k4aH3VTYQTLS_ftvoRjJwIXBbAvuOLsZDLtNbRBCPd7qnv7DB8RjCxV_4y62LdLtN95akUs-8XKhdN1T2E4CAvGb159D2GtipwM3FRt_p0x-AN/s1600/second.jpg) |
Click to enlarge. |
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