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Dobsonflies

Found in North and Central America, the dobsonfly is an insect with a frightening appearance. Their long, thin bodies resemble those of the stick insect and can measure up to five inches from pincers to wingtips. Dobsonflies are found primarily outdoors near large bodies of water. Indoor infestations are extremely rare.

Although the pincers of the male dobsonfly appear threatening, they are harmless. Rather, female dobsonflies use their smaller pincers in self-defense and are capable of piercing the skin. While these bites can prove mildly painful, dobsonflies are not known carriers of any diseases. Dobsonflies may emit unpleasant odors when threatened.

Dobsonfly larvae are also alarming in appearance. Also known as hellgrammites, these larvae have sharp, powerful mandibles. Both male and female dobsonfly larvae are capable of biting humans. Hellgrammites develop underwater, and then crawl onto land in order to pupate. Dobsonfly larvae grow up to three inches in length and have feathery gills along both sides of their bodies.

Black Flies

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Life Cycle of Flesh Flies

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