Subject: Moth Eating Bug ID
Location: Florida
September 24, 2014 6:28 am
I discovered this small insect that apparently was eating a moth tucked under a wildflower. Would love to know what it is!
Thank you!
Signature: Laura Hayes
Hi Laura,
The predator is a Jagged Ambush Bug in the genus Phymata, and the prey is a butterfly known as a Skipper, not a moth. Ambush Bugs frequently await prey while camouflaged on blossoms. Your images are wonderful, both the action image and the excellent use of scale.
Thank you for the prompt reply and solving my mystery. I knew that was a Skipper! I still want to think of them as moths and forget.
Laura Hayes