Big bug on our deck

Last night Chris called me down to the basement to look at a bug he had found basking in the lamp light on our deck. He was a big bug about 3 inches long and very mean looking. Here is his photo.

We at first thought he was a stag or elephant beetle, but they have segmented bodies. Eventually we found out that it was in fact a Giant Water Bug and it can kill small fish and amphibians with its mandibles – nice! It is also known as a toe-biter and I can see why. Yet another species we can add to our ever-growing list.

Tags: bug insect