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Wheel Bug (Arilus cristatus)
This largest species of assassin bug can be found throughout most of North America. The "wheel" on the adult insect's back is unmistakable (see photo below). Immature nymphs are mostly red. Adults are grey to brown. Mature adults grow up to a bit over an inch long (25mm). All life stages prey on a variety of insects. Like all assassin bugs, wheel bugs can deliver a painful bite.
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BugGuide has an excellent series of photos showing the wheel bug's lifecycle from egg to adult.
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