Q: I found the weirdest things I’ve ever seen in an old log-filled trash can that had rainwater in it. When I poured out the water there were several white grub-like things that each had a long tail. They wiggled vigorously, dragging their tails behind. What are they?

A: The creatures are rat-tailed maggots, a phrase you’ve always wanted to mutter under your breath when cut off in traffic.

They are the larva of a drone fly (bee fly), a harmless insect that resembles a honeybee as it visits garden flowers.

I can tell by your enthusiasm that you do not suffer from Scoleciphobia!

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Drone Fly