Assassin Bug

Wheel Bug, Arilus cristatus

This silver-gray insect is the largest assassin bug.  The “Wheel Bug” gets its name from the structure on its thorax which resembles a gear or saw blade.  It has a 

hinged Beak used to inject poisonous digestive fluids into its prey, which can immobilize it in seconds.
It is then used to extract the digested Insect or Caterpillar,
leaving only the empty skin of its victim as evidence of the event

Although assassin bugs  are not considered dangerous, most can bite, and should not be handled.

I was outside talking on the phone with Jan when I saw this  “assassin” on my old petunias.  They are truly one ugly bug!

Look at the larger size to see just how ugly he is :)