This Wheel Bug was photographed at the Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Hutchins, Texas. Wheel Bugs are so named because of the gear-like structure located on the top of their thorax.
Wheel Bug are accomplished predators, and feed on many different kinds of pest insects. In this case, a stink bug has been captured. The wheel Bug has impales its victim and injects paralyzing and digestive enzymes into its victims.
Also noticeable in this picture are a number of small flies joining in on the stink bug feast.
Finally, a note of caution. Wheel Bugs will bite if handled. Their bite is reportedly very painful and can take a long time to heal.
Observation Details
| County | – | Dallas | |
| City | – | Hutchins | |
| Date | – | Jun 23, 2013 | |
| Time of Day | – | Afternoon | |
| Temperature | – | Hot (greater than 89°F/32°C) | |
| Weather | – | Partly Cloudy | |
| Habitat | – | Recreation-Park | |
| Type of Behavior | – | Feeding | |
| Gender | – | Uncertain | |
| Maturity | – | Adult | |
| Observer | – | Penny Halstead | |
| Main Article | – | Wheel Bug | Observation Location |
I raise a vegetable garden, avoiding pesticides. I am always glad when I find a wheel bug in the garden.