Mictis profanaCommon name: Crusader Bug
Meaning of name: Unknown.
Distribution: Found throughout Australia.
Description: Approximately 25mm long with a brown body and distinctive orange cross on the back.
Notes: These insects can spray a smelly liquid at anything (or anyone) that threatens them.
References: Guide to the Wildlife of the Perth Region. Simon Nevill Publications. 2005
Australian Museum http://australianmuseum.net.au/Crusader-Bug
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This very young Crusader Bug is yet to develop the distinctive cross. The grid lines are 2mm apart.
This slightly older Crusader Bug has two spots on its back.
This even older young Crusader Bug has a different pattern on its back again. The grid lines are 2mm apart.
It is only the adult Crusader Bug that has a cross on its back.
This Crusader Bug is shedding its skin. The bug is slowly removing its pale, soft body from its old, dark skin.
