Knowledgebase

Can you tell me what kind of bug this is? #802665

Asked July 23, 2022, 7:23 PM EDT

Please see the attached photos of a long (approximately 5-6 inches, I think) flying bug with six legs, a black body, and very long antennae. When the bug flew off, there were two sets of wings that reminded me of dragon fly wings. The photos are taken through glass and a screen. Thank you for your help!!!

Clermont County Ohio

Expert Response

This is called a dobsonfly. They are large aquatic living insects. They are not harmful. If handled roughly they will bite with their pinchers. The bite is painful but not harmful or long-lasting. 
https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/dobsonfly

For future inquiries, you can contact our office in Clermont County at<personal data hidden> or clermont.osu.edu. We are located in Owensville on the Clermont County Fairgrounds at 1000 Locust Street.
Gigi Neal Replied July 28, 2022, 10:41 AM EDT
Thank you, thank you, thank you for identifying the quite large bug for me. I think it was by far the largest bug I ever saw. :-) I so appreciate you expertise.

From: "Ask Extension" <<personal data hidden>>
To: "Theresa Marchwinski" <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Thursday, July 28, 2022 10:41:37 AM
Subject: Re: Can you tell me what kind of bug this is? (#0072596)

The Question Asker Replied August 02, 2022, 10:15 PM EDT
If you have any other questions, you can find me locally at: 

Clermont.osu.edu
<personal data hidden>
<personal data hidden>

1000 Locust Street, POBox 670
Owensville, OH 45160
Gigi Neal Replied August 04, 2022, 9:11 AM EDT

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