Did you know we had giant centipedes in NZ? The Cormocephalus rubriceps ("Hura") is a native, but under threat from hedgehogs, rats, etc.
They're rare on the mainland - they like it up north where it's warmer - but are more common on predator-free islands.
They have a strong bite, but are not venomous.
This one hanging out on a friend's arm is about 16cm long. My friend is an 83-year-old retired biology teacher, so you can imagine his excitement.
#insects
#centipede
#NewZealand