The Official New Mexico State Insect

Pepsis

Pepsis is the official state insect of New Mexico. It is a species of tarantula hawk, a type of spider wasp that is a predator of spiders, specifically tarantulas. The Pepsis is a large, solitary wasp with a bright red and black body and a large, powerful stinger. It is native to the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The Pepsis was chosen as the state insect of New Mexico in 1989 and is considered a symbol of strength, courage and determination due to its willingness to take on and kill tarantulas that are much larger than it is. The Pepsis is also an important pollinator in the area and helps to keep the desert ecosystem in balance. Its colors also mimic the colors of the New Mexico state flag, making it a fitting choice for the state insect.

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