Feather-Legged Assassin Bug vs Julia Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Feather-Legged Assassin Bug | Julia Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ptilocnemus lemur | Orthetrum julia |
| Order | Hemiptera | Odonata |
| Family | Reduviidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 10-14 mm | 40-48 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Australia | Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Feather-Legged Assassin Bug
An Australian assassin bug with bizarre feathery hind legs used to lure ant prey. It waves its feathered legs near ant trails to attract victims.
Did You Know?
It dangles its feathery hind legs like fishing lures to attract ants, which it then seizes and devours.
Julia Skimmer
A slender African dragonfly where mature males develop a striking black and white pattern. It is found throughout sub-Saharan Africa near flowing water.
Did You Know?
Males become jet black with contrasting white markings as they mature, unlike most blue pruinose Orthetrum.