Photo- Bug ID

kyturkey

kyturkey

Joined
Oct 10, 2007
Messages
1,121
I found this the other day, and hadn't ever seen one before. Did a search online and found that it looks like a wheel bug, except they aren't red. Any thoughts or ideas as to what it is.

Photos

IMG_0568.jpg


IMG_0581.jpg


IMG_0564.jpg


and web site describing the wheel bug
http://www.insectidentification.org/insect-description.asp?identification=Wheel-Bug
 
I think you are right with Wheel Bug. Found this online:

The wheel bug (Arilus cristatus) is recognized by the notched crest on the top of the thorax. The adult is gray and quite large (about 25 mm); the nymph is red with black marks. Wheel bugs occur in North America, are predaceous on other insects, and have a painful bite if handled.
 
Those are two odd little friends ! Good pics. Sorry, I've nothing valuable to contribute as far as their ID.
 
I've always heard them called Assassin bugs.

They suck the juice out of other bugs, and will draw blood on a person I hear.

Photo-Assassin%20bug.jpg


Chuck
 
It is a wheel bug. Take a look at the "wings" on the back. Those are called elytra. This little bugger just finished molting and is squishy. His stylet is also squishy, he couldn't stab you if he wanted to. His exoskeleton will eventually harden and he will become dark brown like the other pictures.
 
Thanks Joezilla, I figured someone here would know the answer. I though it was a wheel bug, I just couldn't figure out why it was red.
 
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