Sphex pensylvanicus, commonly known as the Great Black Wasp, is a large, solitary wasp native to North America. It is known for its shiny black body and distinctive blue-black wings. Preferring open areas, it preys primarily on katydids and grasshoppers, which it paralyzes and uses to provision its underground nests.

Sphex pensylvanicus, commonly known as the Great Black Wasp, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution includes regions across the United States, particularly in the eastern and central states, as well as parts of Canada and Mexico.

The Great Black Wasp typically inhabits open fields, meadows, gardens, and other areas with abundant flowering plants. It thrives in environments that provide ample sunlight and dry, sandy soil where it can easily dig nests.

As a solitary wasp, Sphex pensylvanicus plays a crucial role in ecosystems as a predator of grasshoppers, katydids, and other insects, which it hunts to provision its underground nests. This species helps control pest populations and also contributes to pollination through its interaction with flowers while foraging for nectar.