The thick humidity and high temperature readings are confining many to air conditioned enclosures, or at the very least shady spots with a breeze. The thought of excessive outdoor exertion has been relegated to only necessary activities, or if possible, to autumn with its cooler thermometer readings.
The fall, as abstract as it may now seem with daily 90 degree plus heat, has many undertakings which entice residents to the plentiful natural areas of the panhandle. One of the locally popular activities is hunting.
The thought of heavy clothing and hours in a tree stand or blind would only attract the extremely ardent woodsman in current conditions. Still, there are many insect residents which consider late July the ideal time to hunt.
Among the native hunter insects is the milkweed assassin bug, Zelus longipes. Sometimes known as the long-legged assassin bug, it displays the bright coloration of a novice deer hunter, especially when in juvenile stages of development.
This species is common in southern North America, especially in the Gulf Coast and South Atlantic states. Additionally, variations on this species are found in Central America, the West Indies and much of South America.
Always on the hunt, the local assassin bugs thin the population of numerous insect species during the warm days in north Florida.
This winged bug is slightly less than 3/4 inch long and has a slender, straight beak with piercing-sucking mouthparts. Their piercing and sucking mouthparts have three-segments.
When their beak is not in uses it is bent back and held under the thorax in a groove. It is carried much like a folding pocket knife, only to be extended when needed.
Adults and nymphs have a pear-shaped head, constricted neck and long hairy legs, giving this insect an awkward, lanky appearance. Unlike many of the insects in north Florida, the shape and appearance is generally the same throughout its life.
Unlike some of its domestic cousins which are rarely seen during the day and are hiding in leaf litter near their intended host, milkweed assassin bugs spend the days pursuing their prey. With their bright orange coloration, their presence is easily observed when contrasted with the green leaves.
The strategy used to catch its prey is known as the “sticky trap strategy.” Like many bugs which employ ambush tactics, the milkweed assassin bug attacks prey after hiding inside foliage with its forelegs raised in the air.
The exposed forelegs are covered with a viscous material which acts as a glue, resulting in the prey’s entanglement. The target insect is rapidly paralyzed when the milkweed assassin bug inserts its beak into the victim’s body.
Enzymes are released into its prey to dissolve its tissue, and the dissolved liquid is vacuumed out. This tiny predator can feed on prey that may be up to six times their own size.
Wheel bugs are another local member of the assassin bug syndicate currently active. Arilus cristatus has a similar life story and method of operation, but it has a more muted coloring.
This juvenile wheel bug is on the prowl for insect quarry. When the weather is warm the hunt is on, so do not get caught in the crossfire.
Currently nymphs of this species are maturing into the adult stage which displays a distinctive spiked semicircle on its back. Punk rock appearance aside, it behaves like other assassin bugs.
Problems can arise when these insects encounter humans. They are capable of delivering a nasty surprise to the unsuspecting gardener working in plants who disturbs this ambush predator.
While not usually a life threatening injury, it is painful. The bite is purely a defensive reaction to a perceived threat, but it hurts.
The good news is assassin bugs have little inclination to engage in home invasion. The green leaves and pretty flowers are the ideal habitat for hunting activities.
Remember, panhandle Florida’s hitmen of the insect world are seeking their marks.
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