Jagged ambush bug

Phymata spp. · genus group

AdultFind the right habitat

A flower can hide a tiny hunter. Thick, hooked front legs help this bug grab prey.

Little clues

Three things to notice.

Out in the world

Around southeastern Wisconsin

Goldenrod and other flowers.

When to look

Summer, on flowers where other insects visit.

Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.

A closer look

Look closely at flower heads. Its jagged outline can blend in with petals while it waits for another insect.

A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.

For curious grownups, too

Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.

Make a bug slide

Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.