All you entomologists out there will love this list! For those of you who don't know, (I didn't, until writing this.) an entomologist is someone who studies bugs. New Jersey has plenty of bugs for your viewing pleasure - lucky us. We've got nearly 300 different species of creepy-crawlies making their way around our state. This list features ten of the creepiest. If you don't like bugs, read this anyway; know your enemy.
1. Pseudoscorpion
These small scorpions are less than 1/4-inch long and have pincers, but no stingers.
2. Masked Hunter
This sneaky bug secretes a sticky fluid to pick up debris from its surroundings, camouflaging itself. It does not typically bite humans though, if threatened, the bite is very painful.
3. Running Crab Spider
Part of the Philodromidae family, these spiders are known for their speed.
4. North American Jumping Spider
Look how cute he is; until you remember...he can jump. He can jump very far, very fast - definitely worse than a running spider.
5. Deer Tick
This small bug may not seem terrifying, but it is a carrier of Lyme Disease. Lyme can be debilitating and often goes undiagnosed for months or even years.
6. Black Widow
This venomous spider inflicts painful bites and females have been known to eat their mates after breeding.
7. Yellow Jacket
These beautiful bugs pack a serious sting. Also known as wasps, most varieties in our area are not aggressive unless provoked.
8. European Earwig
Native to Europe, the species was first found in Seattle in 1907 and has since spread throughout the U.S. They do not bite or sting humans, but will use their pincers defensively.
9. Centipede
The Scutigera Coleoptrata, or house centipede, likes damp, dark places like drains and basements. The more legs, the less I want to see it in my home.
10. Tiger Mosquito
Native to Asia, these bugs were recently introduced to our area through trade and travel. The Tiger Mosquito is particularly pesky as it feeds both day and night. It has been known to carry deadly diseases including Yellow Fever and Dengue Fever.
Is your skin crawling yet? These insects and arachnids are creeping me out! I'm going to go put on some bug spray; feel free to share your New Jersey bug photos in the comments below.
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