Planthopper: Peanut-headed bug!

The Peanut-headed bug (Fulgora laternaria) is one of the weirdest looking bug I have seen in my life. It is also one of the most fascinating creatures of the insect world.

The first time that I saw this creature I thought that I had 'discovered' a new species. That was when I just started to work in the interior of Kabalebo. It wasn't a new kind of insect, but it surely opened a New World for me. 


This creature can reach a length of at least 8 cm. It surely isn't a small bug.


It isn't difficult to see why it is called the Peanut-headed bug. Its head resembles the shape of a Peanut. Some call it an Alligator-headed Bug, since it resembles sideways an Alligator head.
In Dutch it is called 'Lantaarndrager' and the local name for this creature is 'Lanterispinka'. 


Even though it has a mysterious looking appearance, it is still a plant feeding bug. 


For so far I can remember, the Peanut-headed bug is a solo traveler. Most of the times I have seen it resting on the rails of the lodge.