Not only physical features, but geographical area too seem to match perfectly. It would appear this is the first pic of a male of this gorgeous species in BG.

Thanks to all for their contributions. Can you explain how you know its a male?
How exciting to actually have a name!

have the antennae much longer than those of the females, almost twice as long. Also, the males have an extra abdominal segment at the end that has three spines coming out of it, called the subgenital plate (sternite VIII). It looks like a three-pronged stinger at first, but it is only the plate that is protruding out of the abdomen.

Very cool! Thanks for the explanation!

Keep the wasp photos coming in if you see any more you're unsure of, especially scoliids.

Right on, I agree with the ID. Great to see this species in San Antonio!

This species was recently discovered to be in Arizona also.

Thanks for the comment, John. My picture isn't the best, but the wasp doesn't seem furry. Despite that, its really close. Too bad I don't have a side angle shot.
Many thanks for all the contributions! I'm always very curious about the bugs in my area.

A local entomologist said it was a type of wasp, probably "tarantula hawks" or other Sphecid wasps. My first thought was a cicada killer due to its size.
Thanks for cropping the picture for me, I wasn't sure if it was better to leave it or not.

You'll find more on these interesting creatures here:
http://bugguide.net/node/view/3920

Well, you've certainly inspired some lively commentary with this post. Hope to see more!