Scoliid Wasps, also called a Scarab-hunter Wasps. This specimen was found in July in a wet canyon in southern Utah. Several of these wasps were feeding on a milkweed. Note the milkweed pollinia (pollen sacks) stuck on its legs and feet.

Females catch beetle larvae, especially those of scarab beetles, for their young. Adult Scoliid Wasps feed on flower nectar.

Taxonomy: Hymenoptera, Aculeata, Vespoidea, Scoliidae

For more information, see BugGuide.net.