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University of Tennessee Biological Field Station
August 8-10, 2008
 
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Photo#119693
Assassin bug ventral surface - Reduvius personatus

Assassin bug ventral surface - Reduvius personatus
Oshawa, Durham Region, Ontario, Canada
June 18, 2007
Size: 3/4 in
This is the second one found in the house in the last few days

Images of this individual: tag all
Assassin bug ventral surface - Reduvius personatus Assassin bug dorsal view - Reduvius personatus

Assassin bug.
This is an assassin bug called the "masked hunter," Reduvius personatus. The species is native to Europe and northern Africa, but has been established on this continent for some time now. Nymphs cover themselves with debris, hence they are "masked." Adults like this one fly well, and are often attracted to lights at night. I might be tempted to check for bed bugs if I were you, as that is the favored prey of this insect. Also, you do not want to be bitten by one of these. The bite is excrutiating, though not life-threatening, fortunately....Simply usher any more of these into a container and release them outdoors.

 
Assassin Bug
Thanks for your help and the caveat!

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