If you’ve ever walked the shoreline of a small, shallow western Montana pond or bog, you’ve likely walked right by a water scorpion. Looking pretty much like a piece of grass or a stick, they blend in perfectly, waiting with front, mantis-like legs to capture other insects, small frogs, etc. With a long “tail” that’s actually a breathing tube, they patiently wait at or below the water’s surface (breathing through their tube) to capture their next meal.
Size: Adult body length is generally 2–6 cm (0.8–2.4 in) depending on the exact species
Photo by: Carolyn Taber on 7/16/22 near Clinton, MT