What in god's name is this thing? [Picture]

Raynaga

I'm trying to figure out what this thing is.



Is it dangerous? Is it plotting to take over the world with its alien brethren? Thanks in advance, its creeping us the hell out and they appear to be multiplying.

Mulletude

http://www.uvm.edu/albeetle/identification/index.html

If that's what it is (asian longhorned beetle), they eat wood.

What region do you live in?

Raekreu

It's a bug. Duh.

Nah, seriously, it's probably some kind of beetle. I have no idea what species, but those mandibles look like they could do some damage.

How big is it? What part of the world are you in?

Raynaga

Southern USA. They do look similar. If they eat wood at least we are safe from the insectoid overlords.

For now?

DoctorArch

Call your state's Department of Agriculture. The Asian long-horned beetle is an invasive species and whenever it arrives in a locality the local response is to kill it with fire (link). The ag department may not yet be aware that they have arrived, so they would probably be real happy if you told them about it.

Darkewolfe

It definitely looks like a wood-eating beetle. There's quite a few types, but they often have those super long antennae in the front.

Figgy

If you post it up on Whatsthatbug.com, you should get an accurate response.

Raekreu

http://www.whatsthatbug.com/2011/10/20/long-jawed-longhorn-beetle-3/

Looks like a dead ringer.

Figgy, thanks for that website. I'd forgotten about it.

Raynaga

That is most definitely it. Thanks to all!

Demerdar

Make sure to report it!

Raynaga

We are. Mostly out of gratitude that we are not going to have our brains eaten by super-intelligent insecticidal masterminds.

Our existence is bad enough without actual Rachni, thank you very much.