Ambush Bug vs Common Spreadwing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ambush Bug | Common Spreadwing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Phymata americana | Lestes sponsa |
| Order | Hemiptera | Odonata |
| Family | Reduviidae | Lestidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 35-40 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Meadows | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Ambush Bug
A small crab-like bug that waits motionless on flowers to ambush visiting pollinators.
Did You Know?
It can capture prey many times its own size with its powerful raptorial forelegs.
Common Spreadwing
A slender metallic green damselfly that characteristically holds its wings half-open at rest. It is widespread across Europe and northern Asia.
Did You Know?
Spreadwing damselflies lay their eggs into the stems of plants above the waterline, and the eggs overwinter before hatching when water levels rise in spring.