Insects: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Tiny Red Bugs
Help! I have hundreds of tiny red bugs on my windowsills and curtains. When I squash them, they leave nasty red stains on everything. What are they and how do I get rid of them?
Help! I have hundreds of tiny red bugs on my windowsills and curtains. When I squash them, they leave nasty red stains on everything. What are they and how do I get rid of them?
How to Control Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees are beneficial insects, but they can sometimes be a nuisance to homeowners. These large bees excavate tunnels in lumber, making holes in decks, porches, and other wood structures. Learn when it's time to take action, and how to control carpenter bees effectively.
Carpenter bees are beneficial insects, but they can sometimes be a nuisance to homeowners. These large bees excavate tunnels in lumber, making holes in decks, porches, and other wood structures. Learn when it's time to take action, and how to control carpenter bees effectively.
5 Lies About the Brown Recluse
More lies are told about the brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, than any other arthropod in North America. Public hysteria about this shy spider has been fueled by media hype and medical misdiagnosis. It's time to set the record straight.
More lies are told about the brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, than any other arthropod in North America. Public hysteria about this shy spider has been fueled by media hype and medical misdiagnosis. It's time to set the record straight.
What Are These Tiny Black Bugs in My House?
I keep finding tiny black bugs crawling on my floors and walls. What are they, and what do I do to get rid of them?!
I keep finding tiny black bugs crawling on my floors and walls. What are they, and what do I do to get rid of them?!
Spiders Swallowed While Asleep
True or false? The average person swallows 8 spiders per year while sleeping.
True or false? The average person swallows 8 spiders per year while sleeping.
10 Facts About Pillbugs
A pillbug goes by many names -– roly poly, wood louse, armadillo bug, potato bug – but whatever you call it, it's a fascinating creature.
A pillbug goes by many names -– roly poly, wood louse, armadillo bug, potato bug – but whatever you call it, it's a fascinating creature.
Mosquito Control at Home
Nothing takes the fun out of an evening barbecue outdoors like a bunch of bloodthirsty mosquitoes. In addition to inflicting a painful bite, mosquitoes can transmit diseases. You can keep your local mosquito population under control by limiting their habitat on your property, and avoid their annoying bites by using the right barriers and repellants. This article also teaches you what oft-touted mosquito controls do NOT work.
Nothing takes the fun out of an evening barbecue outdoors like a bunch of bloodthirsty mosquitoes. In addition to inflicting a painful bite, mosquitoes can transmit diseases. You can keep your local mosquito population under control by limiting their habitat on your property, and avoid their annoying bites by using the right barriers and repellants. This article also teaches you what oft-touted mosquito controls do NOT work.
Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
When it comes to mosquitoes, it's not the bite that's the problem. It's the annoying itch that persists for days after the mosquito has finished its meal. Why do mosquito bites itch, anyway?
When it comes to mosquitoes, it's not the bite that's the problem. It's the annoying itch that persists for days after the mosquito has finished its meal. Why do mosquito bites itch, anyway?
Make a Vinegar Trap for Fruit Flies
Are you battling fruit flies in your kitchen? Once they get in, it's hard to get rid of fruit flies. This simple vinegar trap works wonders on a fruit fly infestation.
Are you battling fruit flies in your kitchen? Once they get in, it's hard to get rid of fruit flies. This simple vinegar trap works wonders on a fruit fly infestation.
How to Make Homemade Ant Baits
Are you battling ants in your kitchen? Learn how to make and use homemade ant baits that will get rid of those ants quickly.
Are you battling ants in your kitchen? Learn how to make and use homemade ant baits that will get rid of those ants quickly.
Ground Bees
Ground bees may be a nuisance in the lawn or garden, but they're also an important beneficial insect. Learn to identify ground bees, and how to control ground bee nests.
Ground bees may be a nuisance in the lawn or garden, but they're also an important beneficial insect. Learn to identify ground bees, and how to control ground bee nests.
10 Tips for Getting Rid of Fruit Flies
Are you waging a fruitless battle against fruit flies in your home (pun intended)? Try following these 10 tips for getting rid of fruit flies.
Are you waging a fruitless battle against fruit flies in your home (pun intended)? Try following these 10 tips for getting rid of fruit flies.
Can Fleas Live on People?
Fleas live on cats, dogs, and other furry animals. But can fleas live on people?
Fleas live on cats, dogs, and other furry animals. But can fleas live on people?
10 Facts About Cockroaches
A few pest cockroaches have given these insects a bad reputation. Read these 10 facts about cockroaches, and I think you'll agree that they're actually amazing creatures.
A few pest cockroaches have given these insects a bad reputation. Read these 10 facts about cockroaches, and I think you'll agree that they're actually amazing creatures.
Is a Daddy Longlegs Venomous?
Myth or fact? A daddy longlegs has deadly venom, but cannot bite humans because its fangs are too short to penetrate the skin. Here's your answer.
Myth or fact? A daddy longlegs has deadly venom, but cannot bite humans because its fangs are too short to penetrate the skin. Here's your answer.
10 Cool Facts About Ladybugs
Is there a more adorable arthropod than the ladybug? From kindergartners to gardeners, everybody loves them. Here are 10 cool facts about ladybugs.
Is there a more adorable arthropod than the ladybug? From kindergartners to gardeners, everybody loves them. Here are 10 cool facts about ladybugs.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Worried you might have a termite infestation in your home? This photo gallery will help you learn what termites look like, and how to recognize termite damage.
Worried you might have a termite infestation in your home? This photo gallery will help you learn what termites look like, and how to recognize termite damage.
12 Worst Vegetable Garden Pests
This group of garden pests are the stuff of nightmares for vegetable gardeners. This dirty dozen represents the 12 worst vegetable garden pests to combat. Along with pictures and descriptions, you'll find practical and effective ways to control these tiny terrors, without using chemical pesticides.
This group of garden pests are the stuff of nightmares for vegetable gardeners. This dirty dozen represents the 12 worst vegetable garden pests to combat. Along with pictures and descriptions, you'll find practical and effective ways to control these tiny terrors, without using chemical pesticides.
Bed Bug Causes
As bed bugs make headlines around the country, people are wondering what causes bed bugs. Here's what causes bed bugs, and what doesn't.
As bed bugs make headlines around the country, people are wondering what causes bed bugs. Here's what causes bed bugs, and what doesn't.
How Do Insects Breathe?
Insects require oxygen to live, and produce carbon dioxide as a waste product, just as we do. Insects, don't have lungs, so how do insects breathe?
Insects require oxygen to live, and produce carbon dioxide as a waste product, just as we do. Insects, don't have lungs, so how do insects breathe?
10 Facts About Mosquitoes
Here are 10 things you didn't know about mosquitoes.
Here are 10 things you didn't know about mosquitoes.
Where Do Fruit Flies Come From?
People once thought insects like fruit flies appeared by magic overnight, a theory called spontaneous generation. While it might seem like this is the case, fruit flies do come from somewhere. Learn what causes fruit flies.
People once thought insects like fruit flies appeared by magic overnight, a theory called spontaneous generation. While it might seem like this is the case, fruit flies do come from somewhere. Learn what causes fruit flies.
Will Cicadas Damage My Trees?
Periodical cicadas, sometimes called 17-year locusts, emerge from the ground by the thousands every 13 or 17 years. The cicada nymphs cover trees, shrubs, and other plants, and then molt into adulthood. Adult males congregate in loud choruses, and fly together in search of females. Homeowners may be concerned about damage to their landscapes or gardens.
Periodical cicadas, sometimes called 17-year locusts, emerge from the ground by the thousands every 13 or 17 years. The cicada nymphs cover trees, shrubs, and other plants, and then molt into adulthood. Adult males congregate in loud choruses, and fly together in search of females. Homeowners may be concerned about damage to their landscapes or gardens.
Periodical Cicada Broods
Each population of cicadas that emerges in the same year is called a brood. These brood maps identify the approximate locations where each of the 15 periodical cicada broods emerge. The maps combine the data of C. L. Marlatt (1923), C. Simon (1988), and unpublished data. Broods I-XIV represent 17-year cicadas; the remaining broods emerge in 13-year cycles.
Each population of cicadas that emerges in the same year is called a brood. These brood maps identify the approximate locations where each of the 15 periodical cicada broods emerge. The maps combine the data of C. L. Marlatt (1923), C. Simon (1988), and unpublished data. Broods I-XIV represent 17-year cicadas; the remaining broods emerge in 13-year cycles.
10 Facts About Butterflies
Everyone is familiar with butterflies, but how much do you really know about these insects? Here are 10 cool facts about butterflies.
Everyone is familiar with butterflies, but how much do you really know about these insects? Here are 10 cool facts about butterflies.
10 Ways to Get Mosquito Bites
We all know a human mosquito magnet – the one person in the group who seems to get all the mosquito bites. Want to know how they do it? Here are 10 ways to guarantee you'll get the most mosquito bites at your next outdoor party.
We all know a human mosquito magnet – the one person in the group who seems to get all the mosquito bites. Want to know how they do it? Here are 10 ways to guarantee you'll get the most mosquito bites at your next outdoor party.
10 Tips to Avoid Ticks
Finding an engorged tick on your body is never fun. Ticks do carry diseases, and your first line of defense is avoiding their bites. Follow these 10 tips to avoid ticks, and more importantly, tick bites, when you head outdoors.
Finding an engorged tick on your body is never fun. Ticks do carry diseases, and your first line of defense is avoiding their bites. Follow these 10 tips to avoid ticks, and more importantly, tick bites, when you head outdoors.
10 Cool Facts About Ants
The complex, cooperative societies of ants enable them to survive and thrive in conditions that would challenge the individual. Here are 10 fascinating facts about ants that just might convince you they're superior to us.
The complex, cooperative societies of ants enable them to survive and thrive in conditions that would challenge the individual. Here are 10 fascinating facts about ants that just might convince you they're superior to us.
Stinging Wasps
The social wasps of the family Vespidae include paper wasps, yellowjackets, and hornets, all of which will defend their homes vigorously should you disturb them. Worse yet, they have a tendency to build their homes in the places we like to spend our time, so there's a good chance you'll encounter them.
The social wasps of the family Vespidae include paper wasps, yellowjackets, and hornets, all of which will defend their homes vigorously should you disturb them. Worse yet, they have a tendency to build their homes in the places we like to spend our time, so there's a good chance you'll encounter them.
10 Myths About Bed Bugs
There's a lot of misinformation about bed bugs out there. Make sure you know the facts about these blood-sucking pests.
There's a lot of misinformation about bed bugs out there. Make sure you know the facts about these blood-sucking pests.
When Should I Use a Bug Bomb?
Are you sure a bug bomb is the best choice for your pest problem? Bug bombs don't work well on all insects. When used incorrectly, these home pesticide products can be hazardous, too. Learn how to weigh the risks and rewards of using a bug bomb, before you choose to use one.
Are you sure a bug bomb is the best choice for your pest problem? Bug bombs don't work well on all insects. When used incorrectly, these home pesticide products can be hazardous, too. Learn how to weigh the risks and rewards of using a bug bomb, before you choose to use one.
Effective Flea Control
Got fleas? If you find a flea on your dog or cat, don't despair. Flea control isn't impossible, it just takes the right flea treatment product and some persistent and thorough housekeeping. Here are my tips for getting rid of fleas.
Got fleas? If you find a flea on your dog or cat, don't despair. Flea control isn't impossible, it just takes the right flea treatment product and some persistent and thorough housekeeping. Here are my tips for getting rid of fleas.
10 Facts About Tarantulas
Hollywood directors like to use tarantulas in horror flicks, because these huge, furry spiders look intimidating. But tarantulas have been given a bad rap. These 10 cool facts about tarantulas should make you think differently about these docile and fascinating spiders.
Hollywood directors like to use tarantulas in horror flicks, because these huge, furry spiders look intimidating. But tarantulas have been given a bad rap. These 10 cool facts about tarantulas should make you think differently about these docile and fascinating spiders.
10 Cool Facts About Caterpillars
How much do you really know about caterpillars? Here are 10 cool facts about caterpillars.
How much do you really know about caterpillars? Here are 10 cool facts about caterpillars.
10 Facts About Centipedes
Learn 10 fascinating facts about centipedes.
Learn 10 fascinating facts about centipedes.
12 Nectar Perennials
Want to bring butterflies to your backyard? Butterflies need good sources of nectar, and these twelve perennials are butterfly favorites. Choose a few of these easy-to-grow plants, and start a backyard butterfly garden this year.
Want to bring butterflies to your backyard? Butterflies need good sources of nectar, and these twelve perennials are butterfly favorites. Choose a few of these easy-to-grow plants, and start a backyard butterfly garden this year.
Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Got stink bugs? Brown marmorated stink bugs from Asia were accidentally introduced in North America. These exotic, invasive insects can be a real problem for homeowners, as the stink bugs like to spend the winter in people's homes. Learn how to get rid of stink bugs.
Got stink bugs? Brown marmorated stink bugs from Asia were accidentally introduced in North America. These exotic, invasive insects can be a real problem for homeowners, as the stink bugs like to spend the winter in people's homes. Learn how to get rid of stink bugs.
What Are These Tiny, Black Bugs That Jump?
There are tiny, black bugs in my house and they jump when I get near them! What are they, and how do I get rid of them?
There are tiny, black bugs in my house and they jump when I get near them! What are they, and how do I get rid of them?
Venomous or Poisonous?
The terms venomous and poisonous are often used interchangeably, but incorrectly. There is, in fact, a difference between a venomous insect and a poisonous insect.
The terms venomous and poisonous are often used interchangeably, but incorrectly. There is, in fact, a difference between a venomous insect and a poisonous insect.
How to Bug Proof Your Home
Do you hate finding bugs in your house? You can't keep every insect or spider outdoors, but you can make it difficult for bugs to find their way into your home. Here are 15 ways to bug proof your home.
Do you hate finding bugs in your house? You can't keep every insect or spider outdoors, but you can make it difficult for bugs to find their way into your home. Here are 15 ways to bug proof your home.
How to Keep a Caterpillar
If you don't know for sure what kind of caterpillar you've found, it's hard to know what to feed it. Most caterpillars are herbivores, eating only plants. These tips will help you figure out what to feed your caterpillar, even if you aren't sure what it is.
If you don't know for sure what kind of caterpillar you've found, it's hard to know what to feed it. Most caterpillars are herbivores, eating only plants. These tips will help you figure out what to feed your caterpillar, even if you aren't sure what it is.
10 Facts About Stick Insects
Stick insects live on every continent except Antarctica, though most of the world's stick insects inhabit the tropics. You may know stick insects for their camouflage, but there's a lot more to Phasmids than that. Here are 10 cool facts about stick insects you might not know.
Stick insects live on every continent except Antarctica, though most of the world's stick insects inhabit the tropics. You may know stick insects for their camouflage, but there's a lot more to Phasmids than that. Here are 10 cool facts about stick insects you might not know.
Insects Attracted to Light
Did you ever wonder why so many insects circle around your porch light?
Did you ever wonder why so many insects circle around your porch light?
Top 10 Myths About Bed Bug Treatment
Before you wage war against bed bugs, be sure you know which bed bug treatments work, and which don't. This article outlines the top 10 myths about treating bed bugs.
Before you wage war against bed bugs, be sure you know which bed bug treatments work, and which don't. This article outlines the top 10 myths about treating bed bugs.
Top 10 Beneficial Insects
Beneficial insects prey on the pests gardeners detest, keeping insect populations in check. You should learn to recognize these top 10 beneficial insects in your garden.
Beneficial insects prey on the pests gardeners detest, keeping insect populations in check. You should learn to recognize these top 10 beneficial insects in your garden.
How to Control Flies
Flies are common pests in the home and yard, but they do pose a health risk. A single house fly can carry over one million bacteria on its body. Control of filth flies involves good sanitation practices supplemented with barriers and traps.
Flies are common pests in the home and yard, but they do pose a health risk. A single house fly can carry over one million bacteria on its body. Control of filth flies involves good sanitation practices supplemented with barriers and traps.
Centipede or Millipede?
Centipedes and millipedes tend to get grouped together, but they're quite different creatures. Though both are arthropods, that's where the similarities end. Here's how to tell which is which.
Centipedes and millipedes tend to get grouped together, but they're quite different creatures. Though both are arthropods, that's where the similarities end. Here's how to tell which is which.
How Do Cicadas Produce Sound?
Cicadas calling for mates produce a deafening sound. How do cicadas produce such a loud sound? Male cicadas use their species-specific calls to attract female mates.
Cicadas calling for mates produce a deafening sound. How do cicadas produce such a loud sound? Male cicadas use their species-specific calls to attract female mates.
What Good Are Mosquitoes?
You probably can't think of one good thing to say about mosquitoes. They're annoying, they bite, and they carry deadly diseases. But they must be good for something, right? What good are mosquitoes?
You probably can't think of one good thing to say about mosquitoes. They're annoying, they bite, and they carry deadly diseases. But they must be good for something, right? What good are mosquitoes?
10 Tips to Avoid Bee Stings
Being stung by a bee or wasp is never fun, and for people with bee venom allergies, it can be life-threatening. In most cases, bee stings are entirely avoidable - just don't attract them or put the bees on the defensive. Here's 10 tips to help you avoid bee stings.
Being stung by a bee or wasp is never fun, and for people with bee venom allergies, it can be life-threatening. In most cases, bee stings are entirely avoidable - just don't attract them or put the bees on the defensive. Here's 10 tips to help you avoid bee stings.
Do Insects Feel Pain?
Scientists, animal rights activists, and biological ethicists have long debated this common question: do insects feel pain? It's not an easy question to answer. We can't know for certain what insects feel, so how do we know if insects feel pain?
Scientists, animal rights activists, and biological ethicists have long debated this common question: do insects feel pain? It's not an easy question to answer. We can't know for certain what insects feel, so how do we know if insects feel pain?
Control Paper Wasps
Paper wasps will defend their nest aggressively. When their nests are located in close proximity to people, some control measures may be required. Learn the safest time and method to remove problem paper wasp nests.
Paper wasps will defend their nest aggressively. When their nests are located in close proximity to people, some control measures may be required. Learn the safest time and method to remove problem paper wasp nests.
How to Get Rid of Chiggers
If chiggers are a problem in your yard, your best method of control is to eliminate chigger habitat on your property. Widespread use of pesticides to get rid of chiggers is rarely required or recommended.
If chiggers are a problem in your yard, your best method of control is to eliminate chigger habitat on your property. Widespread use of pesticides to get rid of chiggers is rarely required or recommended.
All Kinds of Ants
Ants may be the most successful insects on Earth. They've evolved into sophisticated social insects that fill all kinds of unique niches. From thief ants that rob from other colonies to weaver ants that sew homes in the treetops, ants are a diverse insect group. This article will introduce you to all kinds of ants.
Ants may be the most successful insects on Earth. They've evolved into sophisticated social insects that fill all kinds of unique niches. From thief ants that rob from other colonies to weaver ants that sew homes in the treetops, ants are a diverse insect group. This article will introduce you to all kinds of ants.
Insects Commonly Mistaken for Mosquitoes
Are you sure it's a mosquito? Some insects that look like mosquitoes don't bite at all. Learn to tell the difference between mosquitoes, midges, and crane flies.
Are you sure it's a mosquito? Some insects that look like mosquitoes don't bite at all. Learn to tell the difference between mosquitoes, midges, and crane flies.
10 Facts About Spiders
From jumping spiders to tarantulas, spiders all share certain traits. These 10 facts about spiders will teach you what all spiders have in common.
From jumping spiders to tarantulas, spiders all share certain traits. These 10 facts about spiders will teach you what all spiders have in common.
10 Cool Facts About Grasshoppers
Learn 10 fascinating facts about grasshoppers.
Learn 10 fascinating facts about grasshoppers.
10 Honey Bee Facts
No other insect has served the needs of man like the honey bee. Here are 10 facts about honey bees you might not know.
No other insect has served the needs of man like the honey bee. Here are 10 facts about honey bees you might not know.
Buck Moth Caterpillar
Stinging caterpillars use poison-filled bristles to defend themselves from predators. If you touch a stinging caterpillar, you'll know it by the burning, itching, or just plain painful sensation that follows. These pictures will help you learn to recognize stinging caterpillars - before you touch them.
Stinging caterpillars use poison-filled bristles to defend themselves from predators. If you touch a stinging caterpillar, you'll know it by the burning, itching, or just plain painful sensation that follows. These pictures will help you learn to recognize stinging caterpillars - before you touch them.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs were thought to be a pest of the past, but these parasites have made a resurgence in recent years. Learn to recognize bed bugs, and understand their life cycle.
Bed bugs were thought to be a pest of the past, but these parasites have made a resurgence in recent years. Learn to recognize bed bugs, and understand their life cycle.
9 Annoying Insects
Even for people who love insects, some bugs can be really annoying. Through a very unscientific poll, I have compiled this list of the nine most annoying insects of all.
Even for people who love insects, some bugs can be really annoying. Through a very unscientific poll, I have compiled this list of the nine most annoying insects of all.
Do Bees Die After They Sting You?
You've probably heard that bees die after they sting you, but that isn't always true. Learn which bees can only sting once, and why bees die after stinging.
You've probably heard that bees die after they sting you, but that isn't always true. Learn which bees can only sting once, and why bees die after stinging.
Bee or Wasp?
Bees and wasps belong to the order Hymenoptera, and are similar in many ways. However, there are some important differences. This article outlines the major distinctions between bees and wasps.
Bees and wasps belong to the order Hymenoptera, and are similar in many ways. However, there are some important differences. This article outlines the major distinctions between bees and wasps.
How Mosquitoes Survive Winter
Mosquitoes are nowhere to be found in winter, but reappear in force each spring as if by magic. Where do mosquitoes go in winter, and how do they reappear so quickly in spring?
Mosquitoes are nowhere to be found in winter, but reappear in force each spring as if by magic. Where do mosquitoes go in winter, and how do they reappear so quickly in spring?
Is a Daddy Longlegs a Spider?
People often mistake the daddy longlegs, also called the harvestman, for a spider. Though they are both arachnids, the daddy longlegs is quite different from a spider in several ways.
People often mistake the daddy longlegs, also called the harvestman, for a spider. Though they are both arachnids, the daddy longlegs is quite different from a spider in several ways.
How to Use a Bug Bomb Safely
Before you use a bug bomb product to eliminate a pest problem in your home, read these important directions and safety precautions. Each year people misuse bug bombs, resulting in damage to property and serious health impacts for family members. Don't become a statistic.
Before you use a bug bomb product to eliminate a pest problem in your home, read these important directions and safety precautions. Each year people misuse bug bombs, resulting in damage to property and serious health impacts for family members. Don't become a statistic.
Do Bug Zappers Kill Mosquitoes?
People swear that bug zappers make a big difference in their backyard mosquito population, but research proves otherwise. Find out why bug zappers don't work to control mosquitoes.
People swear that bug zappers make a big difference in their backyard mosquito population, but research proves otherwise. Find out why bug zappers don't work to control mosquitoes.
Aphids
In moderate numbers, aphids don't do as much harm to garden plants as one might think. But once you start seeing sooty mold or curled leaves, it's time to act.
In moderate numbers, aphids don't do as much harm to garden plants as one might think. But once you start seeing sooty mold or curled leaves, it's time to act.
7 Facts About Painted Lady Butterflies
Are you raising painted lady butterflies in your elementary school classroom? Do these familiar butterflies visit your yard? Here are 7 fascinating facts about painted ladies.
Are you raising painted lady butterflies in your elementary school classroom? Do these familiar butterflies visit your yard? Here are 7 fascinating facts about painted ladies.
Avoiding Bed Bugs at Hotels
Before you settle into your hotel room, take a few minutes to look for any signs of bed bugs. Learn what to look for, where to look, and what to do if you find bed bugs in your hotel room.
Before you settle into your hotel room, take a few minutes to look for any signs of bed bugs. Learn what to look for, where to look, and what to do if you find bed bugs in your hotel room.
10 Cool Facts About Dragonflies
Have you ever spent a summer day watching dragonflies flying around a pond or lake? Learn more about the biology and behavior of these incredible insects. Here are 10 cool facts about dragonflies.
Have you ever spent a summer day watching dragonflies flying around a pond or lake? Learn more about the biology and behavior of these incredible insects. Here are 10 cool facts about dragonflies.
Stinging Caterpillars
Stinging caterpillars use poison-filled bristles to defend themselves from predators. If you touch a stinging caterpillar, you'll know it by the burning, itching, or just plain painful sensation that follows. These pictures will help you learn to recognize stinging caterpillars - before you touch them.
Stinging caterpillars use poison-filled bristles to defend themselves from predators. If you touch a stinging caterpillar, you'll know it by the burning, itching, or just plain painful sensation that follows. These pictures will help you learn to recognize stinging caterpillars - before you touch them.
How Insects Attract a Mate
Lone insects must find a mate of the same species and opposite sex in order to reproduce. Most insects employ one or more of three signal types to attract a mate: auditory, visual, or chemical.
Lone insects must find a mate of the same species and opposite sex in order to reproduce. Most insects employ one or more of three signal types to attract a mate: auditory, visual, or chemical.
10 Facts About Fireflies
Fireflies are amazing insects! Learn 10 cool facts about fireflies.
Fireflies are amazing insects! Learn 10 cool facts about fireflies.
What Do Tarantulas Eat?
Tarantulas are carnivores. Here's more information on what they eat, and how they catch their prey.
Tarantulas are carnivores. Here's more information on what they eat, and how they catch their prey.
10 Facts About Millipedes
Millipedes are ancient creatures. Learn fascinating facts about how millipede bodies, behaviors, and history.
Millipedes are ancient creatures. Learn fascinating facts about how millipede bodies, behaviors, and history.
Do Bugs Sleep?
It's hard to tell if insects sleep the way we do. They don't have eyelids, for one thing, so you'll never see a bug close its eyes for a quick nap. So what's the answer - do insects sleep?
It's hard to tell if insects sleep the way we do. They don't have eyelids, for one thing, so you'll never see a bug close its eyes for a quick nap. So what's the answer - do insects sleep?
Florida Lovebugs
If you drive through a swarm of Florida lovebugs, you'll know it. These insects are known as a nuisance along Florida roads. What are Florida lovebugs?
If you drive through a swarm of Florida lovebugs, you'll know it. These insects are known as a nuisance along Florida roads. What are Florida lovebugs?
10 Tips to Avoid Chigger Bites
Ever had chigger bites? If you have, you'll never forget them. Chigger bites are probably the itchiest bug bites you'll ever experience. These 10 tips will help you avoid chigger bites.
Ever had chigger bites? If you have, you'll never forget them. Chigger bites are probably the itchiest bug bites you'll ever experience. These 10 tips will help you avoid chigger bites.
What Does Termite Damage Look Like?
Worried you might have a termite infestation in your home? This photo gallery will help you learn what termites look like, and how to recognize termite damage.
Worried you might have a termite infestation in your home? This photo gallery will help you learn what termites look like, and how to recognize termite damage.
Ants and Aphids
Ants and aphids have a mutualistic relationship. Ants feed on the honeydew excreted by the aphids, and in exchange, they protect the aphids. Some ants take their jobs as aphid caretakers pretty seriously.
Ants and aphids have a mutualistic relationship. Ants feed on the honeydew excreted by the aphids, and in exchange, they protect the aphids. Some ants take their jobs as aphid caretakers pretty seriously.
It's Hard to Kill Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they've established themselves in a dwelling. What makes it so hard to get rid of bed bugs?
Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they've established themselves in a dwelling. What makes it so hard to get rid of bed bugs?
What Are Insects?
The most basic definition of an insect is an organism with three pairs of legs and three body regions – head, thorax, and abdomen. Entomologists, scientists who study insects, might also add that insects have a pair of antennae and external mouthparts. As you learn more about insects, you will find there are some exceptions to these rules.
The most basic definition of an insect is an organism with three pairs of legs and three body regions – head, thorax, and abdomen. Entomologists, scientists who study insects, might also add that insects have a pair of antennae and external mouthparts. As you learn more about insects, you will find there are some exceptions to these rules.
Flea Beetles
Flea beetles are tiny pests that take tiny bites, but collectively they can do some damage to garden plants.
Flea beetles are tiny pests that take tiny bites, but collectively they can do some damage to garden plants.
Wolf Spiders
One of the largest spider families, wolf spiders live everywhere from deserts to mountains, rainforests to meadows. Wolf spiders use keen eyesight, quick reflexes, and camouflage to survive as ground dwellers.
One of the largest spider families, wolf spiders live everywhere from deserts to mountains, rainforests to meadows. Wolf spiders use keen eyesight, quick reflexes, and camouflage to survive as ground dwellers.
Painted Lady
The Painted Lady inhabits backyards and meadows throughout most of the world, and is the most widespread butterfly species. Schoolchildren often recognize this butterfly, as raising these butterflies is a popular science activity in elementary classrooms.
The Painted Lady inhabits backyards and meadows throughout most of the world, and is the most widespread butterfly species. Schoolchildren often recognize this butterfly, as raising these butterflies is a popular science activity in elementary classrooms.
What Are Chiggers?
I once endured chigger bites so itchy I would have given state secrets to the enemy to make the itching stop. So what are chiggers, and where do they hang out?
I once endured chigger bites so itchy I would have given state secrets to the enemy to make the itching stop. So what are chiggers, and where do they hang out?
Control of Tent Caterpillars
I have eastern tent caterpillars in my trees. Will they kill my trees? How do I get rid of them?
I have eastern tent caterpillars in my trees. Will they kill my trees? How do I get rid of them?
Bed Bug Mattress Covers
If you've got a bed bug infestation, it pays to install a bed bug mattress cover on both your mattress and box spring. Learn what a bed bug cover does, and how to use it.
If you've got a bed bug infestation, it pays to install a bed bug mattress cover on both your mattress and box spring. Learn what a bed bug cover does, and how to use it.
How Do Crickets Chirp?
: How Do Crickets Produce Sound? The chirping of crickets - to some an annoyance, to others, music. In
: How Do Crickets Produce Sound? The chirping of crickets - to some an annoyance, to others, music. In
What Do Dragonflies Eat?
Learn what adult dragonflies and dragonfly nymphs eat, and how they catch their prey.
Learn what adult dragonflies and dragonfly nymphs eat, and how they catch their prey.
Bronzed Cutworm and Other Cutworms
Cutworms are so named for their annoying habit of cutting down seedlings, usually right at or near the soil surface.
Cutworms are so named for their annoying habit of cutting down seedlings, usually right at or near the soil surface.
Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees nest in bare, weathered wood, and often take up residence in porches and decks. While this can be a nuisance, carpenter bees are important pollinators and rarely pose a threat to people.
Carpenter bees nest in bare, weathered wood, and often take up residence in porches and decks. While this can be a nuisance, carpenter bees are important pollinators and rarely pose a threat to people.
Asparagus Beetles
Both the common and spotted asparagus beetles feed on asparagus plants, though the common variety does more damage.
Both the common and spotted asparagus beetles feed on asparagus plants, though the common variety does more damage.
Grasshopper or Cricket?
Grasshoppers, crickets, locusts, and katydids all belong to the same order - Orthoptera. Within this group, the grasshoppers and locusts are separated from the crickets and katydids by certain characteristics. These are the major differences between the two suborders of Orthoptera.
Grasshoppers, crickets, locusts, and katydids all belong to the same order - Orthoptera. Within this group, the grasshoppers and locusts are separated from the crickets and katydids by certain characteristics. These are the major differences between the two suborders of Orthoptera.
Squash Vine Borer
Squash vine borers can wipe out the entire year's harvest of squash, pumpkins, or zucchini.
Squash vine borers can wipe out the entire year's harvest of squash, pumpkins, or zucchini.
Life Cycle of Lepidoptera
Butterflies and moths, all members of the order Lepidoptera, undergo complete metamorphosis with four stages - egg, larve, pupa, and adult. In each of these four life cycle stages, the insect looks and behaves quite differently from the others.
Butterflies and moths, all members of the order Lepidoptera, undergo complete metamorphosis with four stages - egg, larve, pupa, and adult. In each of these four life cycle stages, the insect looks and behaves quite differently from the others.
What Are Arachnids?
The class Arachnida includes a diverse group of arthropods: spiders, scorpions, ticks, mites, harvestmen, and their cousins. All members of this group share certain common characteristics. Arachnids provide an important service, keeping insect populations under control.
The class Arachnida includes a diverse group of arthropods: spiders, scorpions, ticks, mites, harvestmen, and their cousins. All members of this group share certain common characteristics. Arachnids provide an important service, keeping insect populations under control.
Tent Caterpillars or Not?
Caterpillars that defoliate trees in your home landscape can be reason for concern, and sometimes require control measures. Three well-known caterpillars – eastern tent caterpillars, gypsy moths, and fall webworm – are often misidentified by homeowners trying to solve defoliation problems.
Caterpillars that defoliate trees in your home landscape can be reason for concern, and sometimes require control measures. Three well-known caterpillars – eastern tent caterpillars, gypsy moths, and fall webworm – are often misidentified by homeowners trying to solve defoliation problems.
Squash Bug
Squash bugs suck sap from squash, pumpkins, melons, and other cucurbits in the home garden.
Squash bugs suck sap from squash, pumpkins, melons, and other cucurbits in the home garden.
Ant or Termite
People often confuse ants and termites. Both insects live in social colonies, and may take up residence in or near your home. Take a closer look - there are some distinct differences.
People often confuse ants and termites. Both insects live in social colonies, and may take up residence in or near your home. Take a closer look - there are some distinct differences.
Do Grits Kill Fire Ants?
This home remedy for killing fire ants gets passed around the internet quite a lot. But does it work? Do grits kill fire ants?
This home remedy for killing fire ants gets passed around the internet quite a lot. But does it work? Do grits kill fire ants?
How to Identify An Insect
Have an unknown insect that you want to identify? Use these questions to collect information about your specimen, before you try to use a key or field guide.
Have an unknown insect that you want to identify? Use these questions to collect information about your specimen, before you try to use a key or field guide.
Butterfly or Moth?
There are six physical or behavioral differences between butterflies and moths. This article describes these differences.
There are six physical or behavioral differences between butterflies and moths. This article describes these differences.
Brown Recluse Spiders
The brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, has a bad and largely undeserved reputation. Across the U.S., people fear the bite of this spider. In truth, the brown recluse is just that - a recluse. It's range is limited to one section of the country, and its bite is rarely life threatening.
The brown recluse spider, Loxosceles reclusa, has a bad and largely undeserved reputation. Across the U.S., people fear the bite of this spider. In truth, the brown recluse is just that - a recluse. It's range is limited to one section of the country, and its bite is rarely life threatening.
Do Insects Have Brains?
How does an insect make sense of the world, move from place to place, or breathe, eat, and mate? Something must control all of these vital functions. Do insects have brains?
How does an insect make sense of the world, move from place to place, or breathe, eat, and mate? Something must control all of these vital functions. Do insects have brains?
Diagrams of the Insect Systems
Insects have a single vessel that functions as the heart and aorta, pumping hemolymph through the body. The insect circulatory system is an open system, where blood flows freely inside the body cavity without the aid of veins or arteries.
Insects have a single vessel that functions as the heart and aorta, pumping hemolymph through the body. The insect circulatory system is an open system, where blood flows freely inside the body cavity without the aid of veins or arteries.
Tomato and Tobacco Hornworms
A late instar tomato hornworm can chew a good-sized tomato plant to the ground overnight.
A late instar tomato hornworm can chew a good-sized tomato plant to the ground overnight.
Bean Leaf Beetle
Multiple generations of bean leaf beetles may attack snap beans and other legumes in the home garden.
Multiple generations of bean leaf beetles may attack snap beans and other legumes in the home garden.
Colorado Potato Beetle
Colorado potato beetles were once a pest of the west, but they migrated east by feeding on potato crops in the 1800's.
Colorado potato beetles were once a pest of the west, but they migrated east by feeding on potato crops in the 1800's.
What Do Caterpillars Eat?
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths. What do caterpillars eat?
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths. What do caterpillars eat?
Honey Bee Mating
Honey bee mating involves one of the most dramatic examples of sexual suicide in the insect world.
Honey bee mating involves one of the most dramatic examples of sexual suicide in the insect world.
Can You Touch a Butterfly?
Many people believe that if you touch a butterfly's wings, it will no longer be able to fly, and will die. Is this true or not?
Many people believe that if you touch a butterfly's wings, it will no longer be able to fly, and will die. Is this true or not?
Index by Common Names
An index of insects, arachnids, and other arthoprods profiled on this site, sorted alphabetically by common names.
An index of insects, arachnids, and other arthoprods profiled on this site, sorted alphabetically by common names.
Cucumber Beetles
Two kinds of cucumber beetles are poised to eat your seedlings. Worse yet, they transmit bacterial wilt.
Two kinds of cucumber beetles are poised to eat your seedlings. Worse yet, they transmit bacterial wilt.
Box Elder Bugs in the Home
Box elder bugs are seldom noticed during the summer, but when cooler temperatures start to take hold, they aggregate for warmth. These red and black bugs often make their way indoors, where they can become a nuisance in the home.
Box elder bugs are seldom noticed during the summer, but when cooler temperatures start to take hold, they aggregate for warmth. These red and black bugs often make their way indoors, where they can become a nuisance in the home.
10 Cool Facts About Termites
Termites live in social colonies and are important decomposers and soil builders. How much do you know about termites? Learn more with these 10 cool facts about termites.
Termites live in social colonies and are important decomposers and soil builders. How much do you know about termites? Learn more with these 10 cool facts about termites.
Control of Japanese Beetles
To effectively control Japanese beetles, you must control both the larval grubs and the adult beetles. This article explains the life cycle of Japanese beetles, and provides practical advice on controlling both the beetles and the grubs.
To effectively control Japanese beetles, you must control both the larval grubs and the adult beetles. This article explains the life cycle of Japanese beetles, and provides practical advice on controlling both the beetles and the grubs.
Cabbage Looper
The cabbage looper is primarily a pest of brassica crops, but will sometimes expand its smorgasbord to include everything from cantaloupe to tomatoes.
The cabbage looper is primarily a pest of brassica crops, but will sometimes expand its smorgasbord to include everything from cantaloupe to tomatoes.
Do Flies Really Vomit and Poop When They Land on You?
You've heard this before, haven't you - flies vomit and poop on you when they land on you. Do you want to know if it's true?
You've heard this before, haven't you - flies vomit and poop on you when they land on you. Do you want to know if it's true?
How to Identify Fire Ants
Wondering if you've got a fire ant problem? Learn how to identify fire ants before you reach for a pesticide unnecessarily.
Wondering if you've got a fire ant problem? Learn how to identify fire ants before you reach for a pesticide unnecessarily.
Caterpillar Diagram
Caterpillars come in many colors, shapes, and sizes. Some caterpillars are quite hairy, while others are smooth. Regardless of these varied features, all caterpillars share certain morphological features. These common features are labeled and described in this caterpillar diagram.
Caterpillars come in many colors, shapes, and sizes. Some caterpillars are quite hairy, while others are smooth. Regardless of these varied features, all caterpillars share certain morphological features. These common features are labeled and described in this caterpillar diagram.
What Do Killer Bees Look Like?
How can I tell killer bees apart from normal bees? What do killer bees look like?
How can I tell killer bees apart from normal bees? What do killer bees look like?
Attracting Beneficial Insects
Forget the chemicals, gardeners! Put beneficial insects to work for you and keep your pests under control the natural way. All you have to do is attract the right insects to your garden. Here's how.
Forget the chemicals, gardeners! Put beneficial insects to work for you and keep your pests under control the natural way. All you have to do is attract the right insects to your garden. Here's how.
Before You Get a Pet Tarantula
A tarantula can make a great pet, but it's not the pet for everyone. Please don't make an impulsive tarantula purchase at a pet store unless you understand your responsibilities as a tarantula owner. A tarantula is an animal, not a toy. Here are 5 questions you should ask yourself before you get a pet tarantula.
A tarantula can make a great pet, but it's not the pet for everyone. Please don't make an impulsive tarantula purchase at a pet store unless you understand your responsibilities as a tarantula owner. A tarantula is an animal, not a toy. Here are 5 questions you should ask yourself before you get a pet tarantula.
Characteristics: Order Araneae
Most people can recognize a spider, but do you know what characteristics make a spider a spider?
Most people can recognize a spider, but do you know what characteristics make a spider a spider?
Bumblebees
Bumblebees are certainly familiar insects, but there's probably a lot you don't know about these busy bees. Like honey bees, bumblebees of the genus Bombus live socially, with a queen and workers.
Bumblebees are certainly familiar insects, but there's probably a lot you don't know about these busy bees. Like honey bees, bumblebees of the genus Bombus live socially, with a queen and workers.
Why Are Ants So Strong?
Just what makes that little old ant think he can move that rubber tree plant? Everyone knows an ant can't move a rubber tree plant. Or can it?
Just what makes that little old ant think he can move that rubber tree plant? Everyone knows an ant can't move a rubber tree plant. Or can it?
10 Fascinating Facts About Praying Mantids
People like praying mantids because they look a bit like humans, with their expressive faces and long arms. Here are 10 facts about praying mantids that you might not know.
People like praying mantids because they look a bit like humans, with their expressive faces and long arms. Here are 10 facts about praying mantids that you might not know.
How Wasp Nests Are Made
Paper wasps, yellowjackets, and hornets all make paper nests, though the size, shape, and location of their nests differ. Paper wasps build umbrella-shaped wasp nests suspended underneath eaves and overhangs. Hornets construct large, football-shaped nests. Yellowjackets make their nests underground. In general, though, the process of constructing all wasp nests is the same.
Paper wasps, yellowjackets, and hornets all make paper nests, though the size, shape, and location of their nests differ. Paper wasps build umbrella-shaped wasp nests suspended underneath eaves and overhangs. Hornets construct large, football-shaped nests. Yellowjackets make their nests underground. In general, though, the process of constructing all wasp nests is the same.
How Do Bees Make Honey?
Honey bees use their stores of energy-rich honey to get them through lean times, including winter. Worker bees gather nectar from flowers and convert it into enough honey to keep the colony alive. How do bees make honey from nectar?
Honey bees use their stores of energy-rich honey to get them through lean times, including winter. Worker bees gather nectar from flowers and convert it into enough honey to keep the colony alive. How do bees make honey from nectar?
Ladybug Life Cycle
Learn about the life cycle of ladybugs, and what happens in each stage of life - egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
Learn about the life cycle of ladybugs, and what happens in each stage of life - egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
All About Insect Poop
Do insects poop? Of course, but we call their poop frass. Insect poop is pretty important stuff. It keeps ecosystems in balance, feeds insect young, and even helps some bugs defend themselves from predators.
Do insects poop? Of course, but we call their poop frass. Insect poop is pretty important stuff. It keeps ecosystems in balance, feeds insect young, and even helps some bugs defend themselves from predators.
European Corn Borer
Though named for its impact on corn, the European corn borer will feed on a huge variety of crops, and has a particular preference for peppers.
Though named for its impact on corn, the European corn borer will feed on a huge variety of crops, and has a particular preference for peppers.
15 Insect Misconceptions
Children develop their early understanding of insects from books, movies, and the adults in their lives. Unfortunately, insects in works of fiction aren't always portrayed with scientific accuracy, and adults may pass down their own misconceptions about insects. This article outlines fifteen of the most common misconceptions kids have about insects.
Children develop their early understanding of insects from books, movies, and the adults in their lives. Unfortunately, insects in works of fiction aren't always portrayed with scientific accuracy, and adults may pass down their own misconceptions about insects. This article outlines fifteen of the most common misconceptions kids have about insects.
How Aphids Reproduce
If conditions were right, a single aphid could turn into 600 billion of the sap sucking pests in just one growing season. Good thing conditions are never quite right.
If conditions were right, a single aphid could turn into 600 billion of the sap sucking pests in just one growing season. Good thing conditions are never quite right.
What's With All the Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are making headlines, as a rise in bed bug infestations hits cities and towns all over the world. Why are bed bugs making a comeback?
Bed bugs are making headlines, as a rise in bed bug infestations hits cities and towns all over the world. Why are bed bugs making a comeback?
Order Collembola
This article describes the characteristics of the order Collembola, the springtails, and provides information on habitat, distribution, families, and species of interest.
This article describes the characteristics of the order Collembola, the springtails, and provides information on habitat, distribution, families, and species of interest.
Butterfly Diagram
Whether large (like a monarch butterfly) or small (like a spring azure), butterflies share certain morphological features. This diagram highlights the basic common anatomy of an adult butterfly or moth.
Whether large (like a monarch butterfly) or small (like a spring azure), butterflies share certain morphological features. This diagram highlights the basic common anatomy of an adult butterfly or moth.
How to Sample for Chiggers
This quick and easy sampling method will help you determine if you have chiggers in your yard. Chiggers are parasites that feed on human tissues. Their bites cause extremely itchy skin reactions.
This quick and easy sampling method will help you determine if you have chiggers in your yard. Chiggers are parasites that feed on human tissues. Their bites cause extremely itchy skin reactions.
Jumping Spiders
Jumping spiders comprise the largest family in the spider order, the family Salticidae. They use their excellent vision and athletic springing ability to hunt and capture prey. It's easy to recognize a jumping spider once you know its characteristics.
Jumping spiders comprise the largest family in the spider order, the family Salticidae. They use their excellent vision and athletic springing ability to hunt and capture prey. It's easy to recognize a jumping spider once you know its characteristics.
Termites
Learn the habits and traits of termites. Termites belong to the order Isoptera.
Learn the habits and traits of termites. Termites belong to the order Isoptera.
Widow Spiders
The famous black widow is just one of the venomous widow spiders living throughout the world. Bites from female widow spiders are medically significant, and may require treatment with an antivenin.
The famous black widow is just one of the venomous widow spiders living throughout the world. Bites from female widow spiders are medically significant, and may require treatment with an antivenin.
Schmidt sting index
How much do insect stings hurt? Justin Schmidt, a researcher from the Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, can tell you from personal experience. He's been stung by 78 different ants, bees, and wasps, and lived to tell you which ones hurt the most.
How much do insect stings hurt? Justin Schmidt, a researcher from the Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, can tell you from personal experience. He's been stung by 78 different ants, bees, and wasps, and lived to tell you which ones hurt the most.
Insect Metamorphosis
Most insects undergo complete metamorphosis. Each stage of the life cycle – egg, larva, pupa, and adult – looks different from the others. Entomologists call these insects holometabolous.
Most insects undergo complete metamorphosis. Each stage of the life cycle – egg, larva, pupa, and adult – looks different from the others. Entomologists call these insects holometabolous.
Dermestid Beetles
Dermestid beetles have a nasty habit of eating museum specimens and preserved insect collections. But their ability to digest keratin also makes them valuable for cleaning bones and skulls for diplay. Learn the habits and traits of dermestid beetles.
Dermestid beetles have a nasty habit of eating museum specimens and preserved insect collections. But their ability to digest keratin also makes them valuable for cleaning bones and skulls for diplay. Learn the habits and traits of dermestid beetles.
Causes of CCD
Theories about the causes of CCD emerged almost as quickly as the bees disappeared. No single cause or definitive answer has yes been identified. Most researchers expect the answer to lie in a combination of contributing factors. Here ten possible causes of Colony Collapse Disorder.
Theories about the causes of CCD emerged almost as quickly as the bees disappeared. No single cause or definitive answer has yes been identified. Most researchers expect the answer to lie in a combination of contributing factors. Here ten possible causes of Colony Collapse Disorder.
The Honey Bee Caste System
Each member of a honey bee colony has a specific role. All contribute to the survival of the colony. Queen bees lay eggs, drones mate with the queen, and workers take care of the chores.
Each member of a honey bee colony has a specific role. All contribute to the survival of the colony. Queen bees lay eggs, drones mate with the queen, and workers take care of the chores.
How Insects Mate
Insect sex is, for the most part, similar to other animal sex. For most insects, mating requires direct contact between a male and a female. But for those of you who really want to know more about insect sex, here's a bit more information about how insects mate.
Insect sex is, for the most part, similar to other animal sex. For most insects, mating requires direct contact between a male and a female. But for those of you who really want to know more about insect sex, here's a bit more information about how insects mate.
Dragonfly or Damselfly?
Though both dragonflies and damselflies belong to the order Odonata, there are features that separate the two groups into suborders. Knowing whether a mystery odonate is a dragonfly or damselfly will help you identify it. This article outlines the differences between dragonflies and damselflies.
Though both dragonflies and damselflies belong to the order Odonata, there are features that separate the two groups into suborders. Knowing whether a mystery odonate is a dragonfly or damselfly will help you identify it. This article outlines the differences between dragonflies and damselflies.