Pseudoscorpion
5623 Hello, I have found a few of these tiny bugs in my bathroom recently and while I am usually not afraid of, or grossed out by insects, this one looks particularly creepy. It is small; only 1/4″ long; jet black in colour, has 8 legs and 2 disproportionately large pincers of some sort extending out from its head. It did not move while I was observing it so I cannot speak to its movements. I live in a detached, fairly new build house just outside of Sarnia, Ontario. Could you please help to identify this insect and let me know if it should worry me or not? Your help is greatly appreciated! Thanks so much!! Regards, Lana
This is not an insect, but is an arachnid called a pseudoscorpion. They are general predators on other mall arthropods and completely harmless to humans. See http://tinyurl.com/ox8sx4o for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.