Most of us Brits aren’t particularly big fans of insects; there’s just something unpleasant about having them nearby. However, there’s no denying that they’re pretty fascinating, especially when we can learn about them from the comfort of our own homes, knowing that they’re nowhere near us. Luckily, we don’t have many large bugs in the UK, and the scariest ones are far, far away from us. So, let’s take a deep breath and show some appreciation for the biggest insect in the world.
Goliath Beetle
First on our list is the goliath beetle, which is among the heaviest insects in the world, with males reaching up to a terrifying 100 grams. Their striking black-and-white pattern gives them a rather regal appearance, especially when we see them amongst the backdrop of African rainforests. Thankfully, these beetles aren’t dangerous to humans, as they survive on a vegetarian diet of tree sap and fruit, so even if you venture to the African continent, you shouldn’t be too scared.
Giant Weta
Found exclusively in New Zealand, the giant weta looks like something straight out of a horror movie, but as with many insects on this list, it’s mostly harmless. Some species can weigh up to 70 grams, making them another one of the heaviest insects. Again, they’re nocturnal herbivores that spend their evenings munching on leaves and fruit, using their long antennae to sweep the ground in search of snacks.
Titan Beetle
Next up is the titan beetle, a giant of the insect world, with some specimens growing to over 17 centimetres in length. Their strong mandibles can snap small sticks, which is pretty insane, showing just how strong they are. Native to the Amazon rainforest, these beetles are surprisingly elusive, so travelling to South America doesn’t guarantee you’ll catch a glimpse.
Atlas Moth
The Atlas moth’s wingspan can stretch to a whopping 30 centimetres, making it one of the largest moths in existence. Hailing from Southeast Asia, and bizarrely, it rarely eats as an adult, relying instead on fat reserves built up during its caterpillar stage. Furthermore, its wing patterns mimic snakeheads, and there’s no denying that it’s a pretty clever defence against predators.
Stick Insects
You’re no doubt aware that stick insects use their twig-like appearance to appear nearly invisible to predators, which is pretty convenient considering they live in tropical forests worldwide. Some of them are fairly small, but not those in the Phobaeticus genus, which can grow up to 30 centimetres in length. Overall, these gentle herbivores spend their days blending in with branches and munching on leaves, so they’re really not insects to fear.
Hercules Beetle
Named for their enormous horns, Hercules beetles use their horns to battle for mates, putting on a deeply impressive show. Within the continents of Central and South America, they can reach up to 17 centimetres long, including their horns. Despite their fierce look, though, these beetles are peaceful creatures living off rotting fruit and tree sap.
Giant Burrowing Cockroach
You’re probably aware that Australia is home to some pretty insane insects, including the giant burrowing cockroach, which can weigh up to 30 grams. Unlike its city-dwelling cousins, this cockroach prefers a quiet life underground, choosing to feed on leaf litter, which helps to recycle nutrients in the ecosystem. Far from a pest, it plays an essential role in maintaining healthy soil, so give them a break.
Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing
This endangered butterfly boasts an impressive wingspan of up to 30 centimetres in its natural habitat of Papua New Guinea. Not only is it one of the largest butterflies, but it’s also one of the rarest, so we should definitely give it our attention. More still, its vivid green, black, and blue patterns make it a stunning sight–take a look online, and you’ll see what we mean.
Giant Water Bug
Amusingly nicknamed “toe-biters,” giant water bugs can grow to 12 centimetres in their freshwater habitats across the globe. They are surprisingly fierce predators, feeding on fish, amphibians, and other insects, and despite their intimidating name, they play a crucial role in maintaining balance in aquatic ecosystems.
Macrodontia Cervicornis
More commonly known as the longhorn beetle, the macrodontia cervicornis can grow up to 17 centimetres, with its antennae adding even more to its size. They’re prized by insect collectors for their impressive size and striking features, although they’re not easy to find, as they’re exclusively found deep in the South and Central American forests.
Tarantula Hawk Wasp
This wasp’s name gives a clue to its formidable nature; with a body length of up to 7 centimetres, it is known for its sting, which it uses to paralyse tarantulas. Sure, 7 centimetres might not sound like a lot, but considering this is a wasp we’re talking about, it’s pretty huge. Found in desert regions, these wasps are surprisingly solitary, spending most of their time hunting or tending to their young.
Giant Malaysian Shield Mantis
Another one of the biggest insects in the world is the giant Malaysian shield mantis, which measures up to 15 centimetres in length and is a master of camouflage. Its flattened body mimics a leaf, making it nearly invisible among foliage, helping it both avoid predators and hunt prey. In general, it feeds on smaller insects, but it has to remain alert at all times to avoid being eaten by birds or larger animals.
Giant Forest Ant
Giant Forest Ants live in Southeast Asia, sometimes growing up to 3 centimetres, making them some of the largest ants in the world. Their strong mandibles are used for cutting through vegetation and defending their colonies, yet despite their size, they are surprisingly agile, scuttling across forest floors in search of food.
Wallace’s Giant Bee
Rediscovered in Indonesia in 2019, Wallace’s giant bee is the world’s largest bee, with a wingspan of 6 centimetres. It builds its nests inside termite mounds and is rarely seen in the wild. Furthermore, its large jaws are used for gathering resin, which it mixes with wood to create protective nests.
Giant Silk Moth
The giant silk moth family includes some of the largest moths in the world, with wingspans reaching up to 25 centimetres. Found across tropical and subtropical regions, their delicate, patterned wings often blend with their surroundings. As adults, they have no functioning mouthparts, surviving only a few days to mate and lay eggs.
Titan Stick Insect
Last but not least, the titan stick insect, native to Australia, can grow up to 25 centimetres long. Unlike other stick insects, it is surprisingly active, and males can even fly short distances. Its robust legs are used to cling onto branches, while its long, slender body allows it to stay hidden in plain sight.
Up Next: Surprising Predators in Your Garden – 16 British Animals to Watch Out For
In many ways, our gardens can feel like peaceful retreats, but don’t forget that it’s also a hunting ground for some of Britain’s stealthiest predators. It can be really rewarding to learn more about these ecosystems, so here is a list of surprising predators in your garden to keep an eye out for:
Surprising Predators in Your Garden – 16 British Animals to Watch Out For
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