AusBonsai

I have seen these insects on my plants from time to time and haven't bothered about them, beyond wondering what they are. In the last few days, I have noticed a lot more of them on my figs. They are about the size of a largish ant, and move a lot like an ant, but have very long antennae.
Maybe an assassin bug?

You're right, that looks like the nymph of the Bee Killer Assassin Bug... erk!

Hello Redsonic,

Looks like the immature wheel bug...
Which is beneficial as it eats aphids and other insects....
Nice wiring btw...
Take care and have a lovely Christmas.
Pierre

Don't let them piece the skin with that needle proboscis.
The pain it excruciating as is the sting of most assassins and soldier beetles.
http://www.qm.qld.gov.au/Find+out+about ... E9TqlwqzXU

Steve

Thanks for the replies and the ID. I thought I would post an update on these guys.
Found three of them today feasting on an unfortunate wasp. They let me get a lot closer - probably because they were distracted. You can see the nasty proboscis - I wouldn't want that in my skin!
Will work carefully around my bonsai for the time being....

Just an update on these guys. They are now fully grown, with wings, though a lot less common on my plants.
Impressive, but pretty ugly really! You can still see the really long proboscis and antennae.

And, the circle of life continues. The next generation is born

a nest of assassins.