What is that thing? ...what does it eat? ...and is it on steroids?

By John Roberts 11 February 2008 01:17:00

Another one for our entomologist friends, this thing landed on my car yesterday - almost broke the suspension.

...funny sticky feet and forward looking eyes it turned to look at me as I approached, I threw a bottle in for some perspective (and to see if I could goad it into attack)...

...Steph the Aussie vet wrestled it to the ground, sustaining minor injuries in the process - I'd have done it but I didn't want to damage the beast - and popped it onto something that looked like it should be its natural territory, at least something to show the camouflage better than back of my truck (to which it had become attached)...

...and once it was sated on Steph's finger I felt I could move in close for a mug shot.

...wouldn't call him an ugly bugger to his face but trust he doesn't read these missives.

Entomologists, any enlightening Latin phrases for me?

PS. Pretty sure it is vegetarian and Steph sustained no injury; that bit was a joke, honest, and Steph has signed an affidavit to that effect (with her remaining good hand).