Top 10 Largest Flying Insects In The World

The world of insects is diverse and fascinating, with countless species inhabiting nearly every corner of the globe. Among the countless species of insects that populate the Earth, there exist some truly remarkable giants of the skies.

From the majestic Atlas Moth, with its wingspan that rivals that of some birds, to the eerie beauty of the Queen Alexandra's Birdwing, the largest butterflies, these insects are not only impressive examples of biological diversity but also windows into the extraordinary evolutionary adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in ecosystems all over the globe.

ADVERT

Here we would like to share with you the top 10 largest flying insects in the world based on their overall length or wingspan.

10. Mydas Fly (5 cm)

The Mydas Fly, a striking and intriguing insect belongs to the Mydidae family. These flies are often referred to as "giant Mydas flies" due to their substantial dimensions. Mydas Flies are among the largest flies in the world. Depending on the species, their body length can range from 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 centimeters) or even more.

Their elongated and robust bodies are characterized by striking, often metallic colors, including
shades of black, blue, green, or combinations thereof. Their wingspan, which is considerable compared to other fly species, adds to their imposing presence.

These flies are predominantly nectar feeders and are known to visit flowers in search of sustenance. They also feed on other sugary substances and have been observed to be attracted to rotting fruit.

9. Tarantula Hawk (5.1 cm)

Tarantula Hawks belong to the Pompilidae family, and they are among the largest wasps in the world. Depending on the species, the body length of these wasps can range from 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8 to 5.1 centimeters).

Their coloration typically features striking metallic blue-black bodies, which can be combined with iridescent orange wings. The large size and vibrant colors of Tarantula Hawks, especially their distinctive orange wings, make them easily recognizable and distinguishable from other wasp species.

These wasps are solitary and non-aggressive towards humans, but they are formidable predators of tarantulas. After locating a tarantula, the female Tarantula Hawk engages in a life-or-death battle with the spider, ultimately stinging it to paralyze it. 

Once the spider is incapacitated, the female lays her eggs on it, and the developing wasp larvae will feed on the immobilized tarantula.

8. Giant Water Bug (6.5 cm)

Giant Water Bugs, scientifically known as Belostomatidae, are aptly named for their imposing size within the flying insect world. These aquatic insects are formidable predators, often found in freshwater habitats around the world.

Depending on the species and environmental factors, their length can range from 1.2 inches (3 centimeters) to a staggering 4 inches (10 centimeters) or more. Giant Water Bugs are characterized by their elongated, flattened bodies, which are well-suited for their aquatic lifestyle.

ADVERT

 

They have powerful forelegs with sharp, curved claws that serve as potent weapons for catching and immobilizing prey. Giant Water Bugs exhibit intriguing reproductive behaviors. After mating, the female typically lays her eggs on vegetation near the water's surface.

7. Tropidacris (10 cm)

Tropidacris is a genus of grasshoppers known for its impressively large size. These remarkable insects belong to the family Romaleidae and are commonly referred to as bird grasshoppers or giant grasshoppers due to their imposing stature.

Depending on the specific species and environmental conditions, they can reach a length of up to 4 inches (10 cm) and a wingspan of 7 inches (18 cm). The coloration of Tropidacris showcases vibrant hues and striking patterns. 

Some species exhibit combinations of green, yellow, brown, or black colors, often providing camouflage within their specific habitats.

6. Goliath Beetles (11 cm)

The Goliath Beetles, belonging to the genus Goliathus, are unquestionably the giants of the beetle world. Goliath Beetles are renowned for their colossal size ranging from 2 to 4.3 inches (5 to 11 centimeters) in length.

The coloration of Goliath Beetles varies among species but often includes combinations of striking hues such as glossy black, brown, or even vibrant white markings. Some species exhibit a metallic sheen, further adding to their visual appeal. 

The males of some species may bear distinctive horn-like projections on their thorax, which they use in battles with other males for access to mates. They are also highly skilled climbers and are capable of navigating various terrains.

5. Titan Beetles (16.7 cm)

Titan Beetles are masterpieces of evolution, showcasing nature's ability to craft such enormous and impressive insects. These massive insects can grow to a body length of 5 to 6.6 inches (12.5 to 16.7 centimeters) and sometimes even longer.

Titan Beetles are characterized by their dark, glossy, and heavily armored exoskeleton, which often shimmers in shades of deep brown or black. Their large mandibles, used for defense and burrowing, are another striking feature, and their antenna may be as long as their bodies, serving as sensory organs to navigate their environment.

ADVERT

Titan Beetles are primarily found in the dense rainforests of South America, particularly in countries such as Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia. They are known to inhabit decaying wood and rotting trees, as their larvae rely on these materials for food and shelter.

4. Hercules Beetle (18 cm)

The Hercules Beetle, scientifically known as Dynastes hercules, is a magnificent and iconic insect species that owes its name to the ancient Greek mythological hero, Hercules. Hercules Beetles are renowned for their impressive size and robust build. 

Males, in particular, can attain remarkable dimensions, with their bodies reaching lengths of up to 7 inches (18 centimeters) or even more. Adults take flight during crepuscular or nighttime hours, with their highest level of activity occurring shortly before the break of dawn.

Hercules Beetles' larvae are among the world's largest beetle larvae and can grow up to 4 to 5 inches in length. They are wood-boring insects, and as they develop, they burrow through decaying logs.

3. Queen Alexandra’s Birdwings (30 cm)

Queen Alexandra's Birdwing (Ornithoptera alexandrae) is a truly remarkable and celebrated species in the world of butterflies, acclaimed not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for its astonishing size.

The defining feature of Queen Alexandra's Birdwing is its extraordinary wingspan, which can reach up to a staggering 12 inches (30 centimeters). This remarkable wingspan exceeds that of many birds, and it lends an air of majesty to these splendid butterflies.

Queen Alexandra's Birdwings are native to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea, where they inhabit a variety of ecosystems, from lowland to montane forests. These butterflies are known for their slow, majestic flight, and their large size allows them to soar gracefully through the forest canopy.

2. Atlas Moth (30 cm)

This magnificent creature is one of the biggest moths in the world, earning its name from the Titan Atlas of Greek mythology who was tasked with holding the heavens. Depending on the individual and environmental factors, the wingspan of the Atlas Moth can reach an astounding 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) or even more.

The wings of the Atlas Moth are often characterized by a warm palette of colors, including earthy browns, tans, and reddish hues. The wingtips may bear eye-catching eye-shaped patterns, often with translucent "windows."

ADVERT

These wing designs help deter predators, as they resemble the eyes of a larger creature, a visual illusion that may give potential threats second thoughts.

1. White Witch Moth (30 cm)

The White Witch Moth, scientifically known as Thysania agrippina, is a majestic and captivating creature, celebrated for its remarkable size and striking appearance. These moths can boast a wingspan that reaches up to a remarkable 12 inches (30 centimeters) or even more.

White Witch Moths exhibit a predominantly white or pale coloration, which, along with their size, gives them a ghostly and spectral appearance. Their wings are often semi-transparent, adding to their otherworldly allure.

They inhabit a variety of ecosystems, from rainforests to gardens and woodland areas. These moths are typically nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night.

Also read: Top 10 Biggest Ants In The World