Tarantula Hawk
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More than a few species of wasps in the genus Pepsis are called Tarantula Hawks. They generally share the traits of being large, bright winged insects, up to two inches in length.
In the United States, they are found in the desert Southwest, in taratula habitat.
Tarantulas serve as living hosts for the wasps. Female Pepsis actively hunt tarantulas, stinging and paralyzing them in order to lay eggs.
Once stung, the Tarantula Hawk drags the paralyzed tarantula back into its den and implants an egg in the body. When the young Tarantula Hawk hatches, it feeds on the Tarantula, eventually killing it.
Tarantula Hawks produce one of the most painful stings in the bee world, however, there is little need for humans to overly fear them. If left alone, they tend to leave humans alone.
They are the state insect of New Mexico.
© 2007 Patricia A. Michaels