Skip to Left navigation Skip to Main content Skip to Footer

University of Minnesota Extension
www.extension.umn.edu
612-624-1222

Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > General/curiosity insects > Insects without obvious wings: greater than 1 inch long > Giant water bug

Print Icon Email Icon Share Icon

Giant water bug

Tettigoniidae

Giant water bug

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension

Giant water bug

Jeff Hahn, University of Minnesota Extension


Description: 2 - 2 1/2 inches long. Olive brown insect with claw-like front legs.

Where/When: Found from May to August in shallow ponds and lakes; is also attracted to lights and can be found in yards, parking lots and around recreational fields.

Significance: Is a predator of insects; if mishandled can "jab" you to defend itself.

More information on Giant water bug

Did this tool help you identify the insect? Tell us.
© Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.