Conenose Bug vs Big-legged Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Conenose Bug Big-legged Bug
Scientific Name Triatoma protracta Acanthocephala terminalis
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Reduviidae Coreidae
Size 17-22 mm 17-23 mm
Habitat Deserts & Drylands Underground
Diet Blood Feeders Sap Feeders
Regions Western United States, Northern Mexico Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Conenose Bug

A kissing bug native to the western United States that commonly enters homes to feed on sleeping residents. Its bite can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitized individuals.

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Did You Know?

Repeated bites can lead to anaphylactic shock in sensitized individuals, requiring emergency treatment.

Big-legged Bug

A large, dark coreid bug found in eastern North America with prominently expanded hind tibiae. The hind femora of males are greatly swollen with large spines. It feeds on a wide variety of trees and shrubs.

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Did You Know?

The exaggerated hind legs of males serve as weapons and signals of fitness, with larger-legged males winning more fights and mates.