Assassin bug

The Assassin bug which is generally found in South and Central America has also been located in the southern region of the United States and has hundreds of different species.   The assassin bug can be found in multiple colors depending on their species, mostly brown, red, or blackish yellow and ranging in size from one-half to two inches long.  While the bugs do have wings, they don’t usually fly.  One of the more frightening species is referred to as the kissing bug.

Attacking Their Prey

Assassin bugs get their name from the way they attack their prey, lying in wait and then pouncing onto the unsuspecting victim, stabbing them and releasing toxins into their body which causes them to be paralyzed.  This might be enough to want to stop reading and forget about these ugly and scary looking bugs, but their method of attack isn’t the only scary part.  They also have a powerful bite that can sting and some people can be allergic to the venom which is fatal to other insects.  However, their venom is not the scariest thing.  

The assassin bug can transmit the Chagas disease, which can lead to heart and digestive problems.  This disease is not transmitted in the saliva, but within their feces (they defecate after eating) and you can catch it if the excrement is near an open wound, your eye or if swallowed.  

If you have any allergic reactions, nausea, or diarrhea, get it checked out just in case as it can lead to inflammation of the kidneys and heart.  

Does the Assassin Bug Have a Good Side?

This sounds like a bug you wouldn’t want hanging around your house or yard, but assassin bugs have their usefulness.  They are attracted to bed bugs, because bed bugs are filled with blood and that is just what they are looking for in a meal.  However, you might want to keep them out of your home, considering that in some instances they can be harmful to humans.  

They do provide some benefits for your garden by getting rid of other insects, like mosquitoes and flies.  If you are someone who doesn’t like to use chemical insecticides in your garden, you may want to encourage them to live there.  You can attract them by making sure you have some organic mulch, which they like to hang out in and they like flowers like daisies, goldenrod, and Queen Anne’s lace.  If you do come across assassin bugs, give them a wide berth, and don’t pick them up.  

To keep them out of the house, cover up any holes or cracks you have that might enable them to come inside.  Don’t forget about your outside sheds and the garage.  They are attracted to the light and warmth of our homes, so use bug lights outside to limit the light by your home.

What to Do If You Get Bit

If you do get bit, what you can do before seeking medical attention

1. Reduce swelling with an ice cold pack on the affected area.
2. Wash the affected area with warm water and soap.
3. Use calamine lotion for itchiness. Resist the urge to scratch as this can actually increase the chances of a bacterial or disease infection.

The assassin bug, has its usefulness, and can be harmful, so only you can decide if it is worth having them around.