Mega-mozzie!

While working at my computer desk earlier today, an insect began to buzz around the monitor. Its shape was unmistakable, it was a mosquito, but it was huge! After a quick search in the bookshelf its identity became clear - a Giant Mosquito, Toxorhynchites speciosus. Fortunately for Deanna (our household mozzie magnet), this species is a nectar feeder. Its larvae, however, are predatory on other mosquito larvae, so it is quite a good species to have around. Unfortunately this specimen didn't last very long after I caught it, and I was unable to get a decent photo of it alive.

The Giant Mosquito perched upon my finger.

The body of these mosquitos can reach 16mm