Water Strider

Pond Skater, Water Skipper, Jesus Bug

Water Striders gained their many names thanks to their ability to walk on water. Water Striders have slender, dark bodies (.4-.75 in long) and 8 long, skinny legs. They can be found throughout Canada and the United States on ponds, lakes, or other bodies of slow-moving water.

Water Striders distribute their weight evenly over hairy legs that repel water and trap air, helping to keep the entire body above water. The middle legs push them forward, while the back legs steer. They use their short front legs to sense movement and to grasp insects and small creatures on the water's surface.

Did you know? Water Striders can live for up a year in warmer climates, burrowing under debris along the shore when it's cold.

See Also: Ladybug, Spittlebug, Water Boatman

Easy - numerous and usually easy to spot in the habitats listed at the appropriate time of year.

Urban areas have a large population within a defined area. This includes villages, towns, and cities.

Wetlands are low-lying areas that are covered by water all or most of the time and support a variety of aquatic plants. This habitat includes rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, bogs, and marshes.