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At Lights

True Bugs (Order Hemiptera)

Giant Water Bug

Size:1.75–2.25 inches long

ID Tips: Very large, dull brown wings overlap to form a distinctive X-like pattern on the back; forward-facing, pincher-like front legs

Range: Throughout the United States

With adults reaching nearly 4 inches in length, the giant water bug is the largest true bug in the United States and Canada. They are predatory, aquatic insects commonly found in ponds, slow-moving streams, and other freshwater wetlands with submerged vegetation. Hunting by ambush, a giant water bug sits motionless on plants just below the water surface and grabs passing aquatic organisms with its powerful front legs. It holds the prey firmly and pierces the victim with its sharp beak. It then injects enzymes that dissolve the body tissues and sucks up the resulting liquid meal. While they spend most of their lives in water, adults can fly and may move from one wetland to another in search of mates. During this time, they are frequently attracted to artificial lights at night. Be careful, though: Giant water bugs can give you a painful bite if handled.

Believe It or Not: Adults catch and eat insects, snails, tadpoles, small fish, and even frogs.