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An aggregation of Sphex pensylvanicus nesting in soil behind a retaining wall on a residential lot in Sioux City (Iowa, USA) was observed over fifteen years. Many encounters of carriage of paralyzed prey (katydids) are reported, and instances when the prey was taken from the wasps are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of range shifts is an important part of tracking species' responses to climate warming and anthropogenic disturbance. Here, arguments in support of such change-induced expansion of the thread-waisted wasps, Sphex pensylvanicus and Sphex ichneumoneus (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae), into Atlantic Canada are made on the basis of collections in southwestern New Brunswick. Despite their large size, bold colouration, and active presence on wildflowers in open areas, no previous records for either species exist from Atlantic Canada. Increases in mean annual temperature, as well as increases in the abundance, regional diversity, and uniformity in the ranges of katydids (Tettigoniidae), the preferred nest provision for both Sphex species, may be promoting northward colonization by Sphex wasps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behavior of Sphex pensylvanicus wasps was observed in the presence of live potential prey items (katydids) under artificial conditions in Sioux City, Iowa, USA. When a prey item was not attacked (17 out of 20 instances) wasps engaged in what looks like "displacement preening" of her antennae using her legs. In the three instances when stinging behavior was noted, the katydid appeared to have been stung ventrally behind the head. One of the three instances is suggestive of a prey item favored over another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the predatory behavior of the Great Black Wasp, Sphex pensylvanicus Linnaeus, 1763, based on examination of its captive prey Gladiator Meadow Katylid, Orchelimum gladiator Bruner which was done on August 28, 2017.