Bug experts, what could this be?
I've seen a really beautiful and strange insect around my neighborhood, in yards and by the park. It's about an inch long and is shaped like a big ant. It's a deep sapphire-blue/black with black wings. Sorry I have no picture, it's always gone by the time I get my camera.
The first time I saw it I thought it might be a queen ant due to its size and shape, but I've seen several now and I didn't think queen ants would be out and about that much. I went most of my life without ever seeing one and now I've seen this about five times. But I'm no expert.
Any suggestions where I could start looking up what it may be?
BNP: possibly. I didn't get quite that close. Do they live in AZ?
Ock: I looked up mud dauber and that's also possible, we do have black widows here and I would be very happy for the presence of a natural predator!