It’s the season to be spooky and some bugs can’t wait to show off their scares. Though many would argue all bugs are frightening, certain insects take the term creepy crawly to a new level. To add to the fun of the Halloween season, we’ve made a list of some of the spookiest looking bugs in the world.
Goliath Birdeater
This arachnid is sure to frighten many people away. The goliath birdeater grows up to 12 inches and weighs 6 ounces. It’s one of the largest arachnids in the world. While this spider typically feeds on insects, it has been known to eat birds. If its size and inch-long fangs weren’t scary enough, the Goliath birdeater has harpoon-shaped hairs they can shoot at predators. Thankfully, this spider’s venom isn’t lethal to humans.
Scorpion Fly
Scorpion flies prefer tricks to treats. While its appearance is scary, the scorpion fly isn’t dangerous. It gets its name from its scorpion-like tail. Though scorpions can sting, the scorpion fly doesn’t. Scorpion flies are about 1 inch in length and have a black and yellow body. They have a reddish head that tapers into a long beak-like mouthpart. Scorpion flies are often seen near sources of water like lakes and marshes.
Giant Weta
With a name that means god of ugly things, it’s understandable why people are spooked by its appearance. This is another bug that’s size adds to its creepiness. The giant weta can reach a length of 4 inches and it weighs about 2.5 ounces. It is native to New Zealand and belongs to the cricket family. Though it is large, it isn’t dangerous to humans. If you want to get on their good side, feed them one of their favorite treats—a carrot.
Amazonian Giant Centipede
The Amazonian giant centipede made the list because of its long length and many legs. This red hued centipede has about 21-23 body segments and each segment has a pair of yellow legs. They can grow to about 12 inches. Giant centipedes are quick runners and have great climbing skills. Not only do they eat insects, they can also feed on small animals. It’s safe to say they are literally a creepy crawly.
Camel Spider
The camel spider likes to trick you from the start. Though they are members of the arachnid family, they aren’t actually spiders. These tan and hairy arachnids grow up to 6 inches and weigh about 2 ounces. They are fast compared to others in their family. Their strong jaws add to their frightening demeanor. Some camel spider jaws account for 1/3 of the arachnid’s body length. The camel spider can inflict a painful but non-lethal bite to humans.
Wheel Bug
The wheel bug is a type of assassin bug, which only adds to its spooky factor. Wheel bugs are gray and have a spiny wheel on their back. They can grow up to 1.5 inches. While its spiny back is creepy, the fang-like mouthpart is worse. Wheel bugs use this fang for feeding and protection. If a wheel bug feels threatened, it will bite. Despite this defense mechanism, these assassin bugs are a great addition to gardens because they feed on harmful plant pests.
Whether they have many legs or large fangs, these bugs know a thing or two about being scary. Though most of them are harmless, it’s understandable why many would want to avoid them. Which bug did you find the spookiest? Let us know in the comments below!