Leeches in Borneo

Patience is vital in the Bornean low land forest, and this land tiger leech (Haemadipsa picta) is a champion of waiting. But when it comes to “feel” the passing person, they’re the best ones.

We found some of these folks during our present expedition to this island. The other species Haemadipsa zeylanica cannot be perceived when it bites the skin, cause it inject anesthetic on the host. The tiger leech instead doesn’t have this kindness and you can feel the sharp teeth while it begins to feed.