Wheel Bug vs Common Hawker
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Wheel Bug | Common Hawker |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Arilus cristatus | Aeshna juncea |
| Order | Hemiptera | Odonata |
| Family | Reduviidae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | 28-36 mm | 65-80 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Heathland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Wheel Bug
The largest assassin bug in North America, named for the distinctive cogwheel-shaped crest on its thorax. It delivers an extremely painful bite if handled.
Did You Know?
Its bite injects cytolytic venom that dissolves tissue, producing pain reported to be worse than a wasp sting lasting for days.
Common Hawker
A large, dark brown hawker dragonfly with blue and yellow spots. It favors upland and moorland habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.
Did You Know?
It is one of the hardiest dragonflies, flying in cool upland conditions where few other species venture.