Wheel Bug (Arilus cristatus)

Edgefield County, SC

 

The common name derives from the coglike projection on the back of the mature insect. The "wheel" on the adult insect's back is unmistakable. Immature nymphs are mostly red. Adults are gray to brown. It preys upon other insects - caterpillars, aphids, bees, sawflies etc. - and is thus considered beneficial. [Source BugGuide.net]

 

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