Wildlife Spotting

The “True Bugs” evolved mouthparts that are modified into a feeding tube (proboscis) for sucking liquids. The advantages of feeding on liquids are many. Many plants are defended against herbivores by toxic chemicals or structural barriers such as tough waxy leaves or by hairs and thorns. Many insects are defended against predation by sharp spines that physically deter predators and may contain toxic or irritating chemicals. A sucking proboscis that can be inserted into the tissue of a plant or insect can bypass some of the defense. (http://livingwithinsects.wordpress.com/)