Hello all. I found this in my backyard in Houston, Texas the other day, and I have no earthly idea what this is. I'm sorry about the quality, but I don't know how to focus my camera on close objects.
It was very slow moving, and even when I picked it up and placed it on my hand, it remained very calm and didn't freak out at all. The feet and antennae are bright orange, and it has this long orange proboscis, although the picture is fuzzy. I took quite a few pictures, let me know if y'all need a better one.
Thanks!
CLOSED: What the heck is this??
zachwulf
Apr 25, 2010
It might be a Wheel Bug, Arilus cristatus. Be careful, they're supposed to have a wicked bite.
See http://tinyurl.com/ncvacs for very detailed information on this fascinating insect. We often see them on our property here in WV.
zachwulf
Apr 26, 2010
Yep, that's it! Definitely a wheel bug. Looks just like the picture on the link you sent.
Wow, I had no idea their bite could be 10 times more painful than a hornet sting. The little guy I picked up didn't seem to care at all.
What a fascinating insect. Thanks guys!
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