Insects of Arizona: Assassin Bug

The assassin bug earned its name for good reason. To attack its prey, it holds the other insect down using its front legs. Using its sharp, strong beak, the assassin bug then repeatedly and violently stabs the insect and sucks out its bodily fluids. When the P. barberi attacks other bugs, it is acting as nature intended, but human victims of the assassin bug’s bite are in for a great deal of pain. That is why you should contact one of our trusted Western  Exterminator pest specialists in Phoenix, AZ if you spot these pests in or around your home.

Assassin Bug Facts

This species of insect is most often found on the East Coast and the southeastern portion of the United States, but it has made its way to Arizona and the rest of the country. You can usually spot assassin bugs on foliage and flowers in the spring and fall. The family of assassin bugs is identified by the following physical features; 12 to 13 millimeters long, red or orange with black stripes, and a pointed beak that it keeps tucked under the head when not hunting. The beak makes noise when it is moved during an attack. These bugs will not bite a human unless provoked, so it is wise to merely observe them rather than try to handle them. They hibernate as adults beneath tree bark or under rotting logs, and you may find hundreds of them at a time in their hiding places as they tend to aggregate during winter. One way to prevent them from entering your home is to move stacks of firewood, leaves or other debris away from the house. 

Exterminators in Phoenix AZ

At Western Exterminator, our experts on pest control in Prescott, AZ specialize in controlling the full range of insects and small mammals that can wreak havoc on your home or business. Using the most natural and environmentally friendly methods possible, we can remove or eliminate pests such as ants, cockroaches, rats, fleas, wasps, ticks and termites. For pest control in Prescott, AZ that takes your family’s health into consideration, contact Western Exterminator to set up a free evaluation of your pest problem.