Backswimmer

Natural Habitat

Found in slow-moving or stagnant freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes, ditches, and sometimes swimming pools.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory; they feed on other aquatic insects, small tadpoles, shrimp, and occasionally small fish using a piercing-sucking proboscis.

Behavior Patterns

Characterized by swimming upside down on their backs using long, hair-fringed hind legs as oars. They are capable of flying and often seek out new water sources at night.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling mosquito larvae populations. Risks to humans include a painful, bee-sting-like bite if handled or accidentally brushed against, earning them the nickname 'water bee'.

Identified on: 3/12/2026