Prehistorical bug?

guido · Nov 9, 2018

Hello,

Never seen one before. The back fin like protrusion looks like armor,

Guido.

4play · Nov 9, 2018

That is a wheel bug, also called assassin bug, it's one of many types, they are fairly common in most of the US. Be careful though, they have beak/fang/spear thing folded back under its head. If provoked they will stab you with their beak and inject venom which feels like a wasp sting and the pain can linger for a day or two.

4play · Nov 9, 2018

BTW, those are great bugs to have around, especially for crops, in flower beds or gardens.

kcm.MN · Nov 9, 2018

I've seen them, but not certain what they are. Maybe a variety of Squash Bug?

kcm.MN · Nov 9, 2018

Ah yes, there it is. 4play had it right -- [b:76e0fcaa73]Wheel Bug[/b:76e0fcaa73]

mozark · Nov 9, 2018

Assassin beetle, they are good guys. I try to leave them be.

coshoo · Nov 10, 2018

He looks like he's mean as a snake. I'll stay away from him, and let him go after other bugs.

guido · Nov 10, 2018

Hello coshoo,

Yes, he is: ARILUS CRISTATUS, also known as wheel bug. The bite is nastier the any bees. He is good for the garden as he is a predator bug. East other bugs by Iinjecting venon in their body, like a spider, them sucks them up. His saliva is nasty too!

Guido.

T.R.K. · Nov 10, 2018

Article in Salisbury Post (NC) a few weeks ago told about them. (At least the picture is about the same.) I'm thinking they are somewhat poisonous. You're supposed to handle them or their carcass with gloves.

Probably imported from somewhere.

Prehistorical bug?

guido

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4play

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4play

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kcm.MN

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kcm.MN

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mozark

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coshoo

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guido

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T.R.K.

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