Help identify bug

Ok, I was just outside in the yard and I saw what looked almost like a worm coming out of the ground, so I got down closer. It was a large black bug with orange wings that then flew out and almost caused me to wet my pants. I have since looked closer and have seen 2 holes that are small, but well defined. Any idea?

 

That sounds really weird!! Unfortunately I don't know what strange bug that could be either:?

 

Doesn't sound like something I would want in my yard. Pour gas down the holes tonite!

 

Its too hot outside...go back in the house. Leave the heat for the bugs. :jester:

 

Tarantula Hawk aka Pompilidae wasp?

Think this is what you saw?:


http://bugguide.net/node/view/58504

more pics:

http://bugguide.net/node/view/3920/bgimage

 

This is just gross!

Wed2X - I'm sure you've realized by now, there are some freaky, large, scary bugs here in NC!!! It's just about the ONLY thing I don't like here in NC...otherwise I love it!

 

Sounds like Pepsi wasp. Short for "Pepsis". Originally from west, it migrated toward the warm area, like Florida and NC.

 

These guys moved into my yard last year. I have tons of them now.

http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/O&T/shrubs/note65/note65.html

 

Cool, you want to keep those guys around. Anything that eats webworms, Japanese beetles, and leafminers, is welcome around my house.

 

I've got plenty. Bring a jar!