We have some big bugs here. Even though I grew up in the woods, it's been some time since I lived there. We have all kinds of bugs, spiders, and we also have to look out for snakes in the back yard. (We've only seen two in the two years we lived here.) Here's a picture of a very large bug on our railing; it was larger than a quarter. I'm glad it stayed still while I took this close-up! Click on the photo to get a larger view--if you want!
7 comments:
We have huge flying roaches in Indiana but I think you guys have us beat with those bugs. Those would scare me to death!
Betsy
What is that thing?
I have no idea what kind of bug this is. I Googled "insects in Maryland", but I didn't find anything similar! I'm thinking of e-mailing the entomology department at University of Maryland, because I saw another one yesterday!
I think I would want to know what that is too before it enters my home and takes over!
Betsy
Don says this bug looks like a "stick bug" or some kind of a praying mantis that is pregnant. Seriously, that's what he says it looks like after looking at it really close. I think the praying mantis part may be pretty close!
Betsy
I'm impressed! They (HGIC of U of MD) identified this bug as a "wheel bug", also known as an assassin bug. It prays on other bugs. Here's a link.
They are an ally to humans, but you aren't supposed to handle them, because they might bite you with their beak, which you don't see well from MY picture. Google "assassin bugs" and then look at the images portion on Google. Eww! I'm very glad they're on our side.
Reading the link to this kind of bug is just gross! Breaks up its prey with its beak and sucks up the body fluids....YUCK!
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