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Very Large Bug #803060

Asked July 26, 2022, 8:14 AM EDT

I found this bug on my birdbath yesterday. It was lethargic, but alive when I collected it. It measures 3-1/2 inches from head to wing tips, not including antennae or pincers. What is it? Please answer by email and let me know if there is anything special I should do with the dead bug. Thank you.

Baltimore City County Maryland

Expert Response

This is an adult Dobsonfly.  It's an aquatic insect native to North America.  They are not harmful.  Just toss the critter in your garden and let it decompose back into the earth.  More information on Dobsonflies:
https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/dobsonfly
Taffy Replied July 26, 2022, 1:03 PM EDT
Thank you for solving this mystery. I'm glad to learn that this is a native bug just slightly outside of its usual habitat.
The extension service is truly a wonderful resource.
Nancy Dodson Sacci.

On Tue, Jul 26, 2022 at 1:04 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 27, 2022, 9:10 PM EDT
Thanks for contacting us!
Taffy Replied July 27, 2022, 10:28 PM EDT

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