The middle legs are used as oars while the hind are the rudders. The body is covered with thick velvety waterproof hair that keeps it from being trapped in water. The Water Skater is found in all sorts of water bodies from ponds to streams world wide. These are semi aquatic, fast moving, predacious animals that hold their victim in their front legs as they feed. They eat other insects including Back Swimmers and emerging Midges.
Nymphs look like adults without wings which they eventually molt into.
Water Treaders are similar animals but smaller. Often green, the animals live in thick vegetation feedign on other animals near the surface. There are 3 species in North America. Water Measurers have long thin bodies and very long legs.