I don't have a clue what this one is. It was on our back door, didn't move all day long, and was gone the next morning. I should have gotten something to use for size reference, but didn't think of it. It was about 2 to 3 inches long. Truthfully, I didn't want to get very close to it, but my son insisted I find out what it is. It looks a bit mean, and I'd rather it didn't rest on our door again. :o)
Picture without flash...
Picture with flash...
Thanks very much!!
Is it an Eastern Dobsonfly?
http://bugguide.net/node/view/4873
I think linda_nc has it - the larvae are called hellgramites. Most trout fishermen would have flies in their tackle box to resemble the larvae. The adults don't eat anything. Pretty sure that's a female - please don't squish it! If Tennessee is anything like here, fish need all the help (food) they can get.
I do believe you have it, linda! Thank you very much! :o)
claypa, thank you for that information. I didn't squish it! LOL I've learned here at DG not to immediately dispose of every bug I see. :o) Now, I take pictures and post them here to find out *whether* I should squish it or not. Besides, according to my son, I would be too afraid to get that close to it! :oP
The bugguide above says they may use their mandibles for self-defense. Not that I'm going to give it the opportunity, but will/can they bite, pinch, whatever, humans or just other bugs and predators? I promise not to squish them regardless of the answer! ;o)
Thanks so much for the help!
i get those on my screen doors too! glad to know what it is.
A truly interesting critter that decided to take herself a rest on your door, RainGazer.
Along with it being a couple of mitey fine pictures!!
Sure hopin' also, that you'll consider making a photo contribution to the DG BugFiles.
Here's a link for ya (jes in case) > http://davesgarden.com/bf/go/390/
- Magpye
This message was edited Jun 18, 2007 9:16 PM
I belive if I am not mistaken they are the adults of the ant lion larvae. ??
Same order, different insect / family. Dobsonfly larvae live underwater
Thanks for bumping this post back up! I had forgotten to post the picture of it. Going to do that now. ^_^
