It is always fun to see a new one. Here are two views of a new and interesting looking insect which we think to be a bee but could well be a fly. It smaller than a honey bee, has long antennae, a hairy body like a bee and interesting orange wings. This was the only one like this we have encountered and is not shown in the guide to local bees making me think it may be a bee-fly mimic.
Yes, it is indeed fun to encounter a new species of any kind to reinforce just how wonderful the diversity of life on our planet.
Thanks for everyones help in identification of this insect. Looks to be a Hornet-Moth.
nature has no boss 
Mike, do you remember if it had a second set of wings? I can’t tell from the photos. I’m not an entomologist but, if it only has one pair of wings, that probably puts its ID into the fly family instead of bee.
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Hi, I think with your and the comments below we can rule out a bee. Right now it looks like a hornet moth might be the correct identity of this guy.
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The online site bugguide can give you a reliable identification. I wonder if maybe it is a hornet moth?
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I just looked up hornet moth and it looks identical to the photo I posted. I will research a bit more but I think you nailed it. Thanks 😊
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I’m thinking it is a hornet-mimic moth, Strawberry Crown Moth – Hodges#2576 (Synanthedon bibionipennis) https://bugguide.net/node/view/1471242
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Hi Eliza, there is indeed a strong similarity to the moth you suggested. I would have never considered this little guy to be moth. This makes seeing him even that more special. Hop your week is going well.
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It was the antennae and eyes that made me wonder if it was a moth.
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Those are good observations.
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Very interesting color scheme, nice catch!
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Indeed this was one interesting moth. Neat colors and camouflage and disguising as a wasp is a sure way to avoid predators.
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