Stonefly

6047    We live in Edmonton, Alberta and have lived at location for 25 years and have never seen this Insect before (found 4 in the last 3 days).  We live on the edge of the city with the North Saskatchewan River across the street. The insects have only been seen towards evening. One at dusk and the other 3 late evening (total darkness).  I’ve tried my own searches but can’t find anything similar. My main concern is if they bite !!!  Any information you can provide would be much appreciated.  Thank you,  Shauna

This is a stonefly (order Plecoptera). Their larvae form an important part of the freshwater food web; see http://tinyurl.com/h84682mfor detailed information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.