What's the Giant Insect Seen Across New York State? [Photos]

As the warm, humid weather blankets New York and the East Coast, residents are encountering a striking inhabitant of the region’s streams and rivers: the dobsonfly.

This native insect, distinguished by its impressive seven-inch wingspan, has captured the attention of many due to its formidable size and unique appearance reminiscent of prehistoric creatures.

Often described as “dinosaurish,” dobsonflies are among the largest insects in the United States, thriving in New York’s temperate climate. Despite their imposing stature, these creatures are primarily nocturnal, with adults and their amphibious larvae, known as hellgrammites, playing vital roles in the ecosystem.

Unlike invasive species that have garnered recent attention, dobsonflies pose no threat to humans. Their powerful mandibles, capable of penetrating other insects’ exoskeletons, contribute to their ecological niche rather than posing a danger to residents.

The discovery of these giant insects shared widely through social media and local forums like the Hudson Valley Country, underscores the natural diversity and ecological significance of New York’s waterways.

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As summer progresses, dobsonflies remind us of the region’s rich biodiversity and the importance of preserving their habitats.

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