Join Kathryn Kermode in her Wild Backyard as she uncovers the intriguing habits of the Bee Killer Assassin Bug - Pristhesancus plagipennis. These well-camouflaged, lethal hunters have their sights on Honey Bees, their favourite prey. Watch as one lurks amongst the foliage and flowers of a Scarlet Moon Grevillea, a beautiful Australian native shrub loved by Honey Bees.
But there's more to these assassin bugs than their bee-hunting prowess. They also target garden pests like stink bugs, making them invaluable allies in maintaining a healthy garden. As true bugs, they possess sucking mouthparts. Using their long proboscis, they stab and inject venom into their prey, paralysing them and releasing an enzyme that liquefies their innards for easy consumption.
A word of caution: while Assassin Bugs are not aggressive, they can deliver a painful bite, so it's best to watch their antics from a distance.
Enjoy this wild tale of one of nature's most effective predators and discover the fascinating role they play in our gardens.
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25 авг 2024
