Just before you hop on the Parkwoods Trail from the Visitors Center, you’ll come face-to-face with this larger-than-life assassin bug! It is 7’ in length, 7’ in width and 3.5’ in height. The body and legs are made up of carved black walnut, and the eyes and sword are made of carved red cedar, making the assassin bug 150 pounds!
Did you know? Assassin bugs are ambush predators that lie in wait for their prey. Once caught, their venom paralyzes their prey and they use their straw-like mouthparts to feed on it. Assassin bugs are a great benefit to gardeners, and most aren’t dangerous to humans, but still can cause a painful bite if they feel threatened.
To learn more interesting facts and view this great exhibit, visit The Dawes Arboretum Sunday through Thursday from 8am to 7pm and Friday & Saturday from 8am to 8pm! David Rogers’ Big Bugs will be on The Arboretum’s grounds until August 25, 2024.