For a close up, go to http://www.pbase.com/britestar/image/68098681


"One of the largest true bugs that exist in modern times, being up to 1 1/2 inches, or 38 mm, in length. A characteristic identifying structure is the wheel-shaped dorsal armour. They are predators upon soft-bodied insects which they pierce with their beak and inject salivary fluids that dissolve soft tissue."

"When disturbed, the wheel bug can inflict a painful bite. The bite has been described variously as worse than stings from bees, wasps, or hornets."

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Any and/or all usage or copying of this image, without express written permission from the photographer, is prohibited by law. Copyright 2006, Elizabeth Bickel. All Rights Reserved.