Insects: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Orb Weaver Spiders
To most people, spiders are creatures that spin large, round webs around our homes and gardens. These recognizable webs are specifically the work of the orb weaver spiders, members of the family Araneidae. Orb weaver spiders come in bright colors, different sizes, and several shapes.
To most people, spiders are creatures that spin large, round webs around our homes and gardens. These recognizable webs are specifically the work of the orb weaver spiders, members of the family Araneidae. Orb weaver spiders come in bright colors, different sizes, and several shapes.
Puss 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.
How Insects Survive Winter
How do insects survive the cold winter months? Some migrate, some hibernate, and some insects make their own antifreeze to make it through cold weather.
How do insects survive the cold winter months? Some migrate, some hibernate, and some insects make their own antifreeze to make it through cold weather.
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?
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.
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.
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.
Io 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.
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.
Smeared Dagger 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.
How Do Crickets Chirp?
The word cricket comes from the French for "little creaker." Indeed, they do make interesting sounds. How do crickets produce their characteristic chirping call?
The word cricket comes from the French for "little creaker." Indeed, they do make interesting sounds. How do crickets produce their characteristic chirping call?
White Flannel 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Twenty-Nine Insect Orders
Familiarity with the twenty-nine insect orders is the key to identifying and understanding insects. This introduction will help you get acquainted with their scientific names and the major insect families in each order.
Familiarity with the twenty-nine insect orders is the key to identifying and understanding insects. This introduction will help you get acquainted with their scientific names and the major insect families in each order.
Honey Bee Communication
As social insects living in a colony, honey bees must communicate with one another. Honey bees use movement, odor cues, and even food exchanges to share information.
As social insects living in a colony, honey bees must communicate with one another. Honey bees use movement, odor cues, and even food exchanges to share information.
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.
Woolly Bears and Weather
Folk wisdom holds that woolly bears, the caterpillars of the Isabella tiger moth, can predict the winter weather. How do woolly bears tell whether winter will be mild or harsh, and are they accurate?
Folk wisdom holds that woolly bears, the caterpillars of the Isabella tiger moth, can predict the winter weather. How do woolly bears tell whether winter will be mild or harsh, and are they accurate?
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?
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.
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.
Saddleback 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.
Malpighian Tubules
Definition of the term Malpighian tubules.
Definition of the term Malpighian tubules.
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?
Stink Bugs
Stink bugs may be friend or foe of the gardener, depending on the species. Some feed on plants, wreaking havoc in the garden, while others prey on insects, keeping pests under control. If you find a stink bug, be sure not to disturb it or you'll discover how they got their name.
Stink bugs may be friend or foe of the gardener, depending on the species. Some feed on plants, wreaking havoc in the garden, while others prey on insects, keeping pests under control. If you find a stink bug, be sure not to disturb it or you'll discover how they got their name.
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?
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.
White Marked Tussock 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.
Order Hemiptera
Hemiptera comes from the Greek words "hemi," meaning half, and "pteron," meaning wing. This diverse group of insects includes cicadas, aphids, hoppers, and water bugs.
Hemiptera comes from the Greek words "hemi," meaning half, and "pteron," meaning wing. This diverse group of insects includes cicadas, aphids, hoppers, and water bugs.
Keeping Fall Caterpillars
In the fall, you can find caterpillars that you might want to raise through adulthood. But what do you need to do to keep your caterpillar through the winter months?
In the fall, you can find caterpillars that you might want to raise through adulthood. But what do you need to do to keep your caterpillar through the winter months?
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?
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.
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.
Cobweb Spiders
Cobweb spiders include the familiar common house spider and the feared black widow. A large and diverse family, there are over 2,200 Theridiids worldwide.
Cobweb spiders include the familiar common house spider and the feared black widow. A large and diverse family, there are over 2,200 Theridiids worldwide.
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.
Order Orthoptera
The name Orthoptera means "straight wings," but there's more to this order than the wings. Orthopterans have strong jumping abilities and often vocalize to attract mates.
The name Orthoptera means "straight wings," but there's more to this order than the wings. Orthopterans have strong jumping abilities and often vocalize to attract mates.
Butterflies and Moths
This article describes the characteristics of the order Lepidoptera, the butterflies and moths.
This article describes the characteristics of the order Lepidoptera, the butterflies and moths.
Hag 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.
Order Coleoptera
The order Coleoptera is the largest group in the insect world, and comprises nearly a quarter of all the described animal species on Earth. These articles include profiles of beetles and their families, and information on their behaviors and characteristics.
The order Coleoptera is the largest group in the insect world, and comprises nearly a quarter of all the described animal species on Earth. These articles include profiles of beetles and their families, and information on their behaviors and characteristics.
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?
Honey Bee (Apis mellifera)
The honey bee, Apis mellifera, is one of several species of bees that produce honey. Honey bees live in colonies, or hives, of 50,000 bees on average. A honey bee colony consists of a queen, drones, and workers. All play roles in the survival of the community.
The honey bee, Apis mellifera, is one of several species of bees that produce honey. Honey bees live in colonies, or hives, of 50,000 bees on average. A honey bee colony consists of a queen, drones, and workers. All play roles in the survival of the community.
Spiny Oak 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.
Stinging Rose 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.
Crowned Slug 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.
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.
Ladybugs
Ladybugs, also called ladybirds, are neither bugs nor birds - they're beetles. Gardeners love these familiar dome-shaped beetles, because they are voracious predators of aphids and other plant pests.
Ladybugs, also called ladybirds, are neither bugs nor birds - they're beetles. Gardeners love these familiar dome-shaped beetles, because they are voracious predators of aphids and other plant pests.
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.
Spiny Elm 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.
How Insects Find Host Plants
Plant-eating insects may eat a variety of plants, or specialize in eating only one kind. Either way, no plant-eating insect will eat every green thing it finds. There must be some way for insects to know which plant is which, and to find the right food plant for its own species. How do they do it?
Plant-eating insects may eat a variety of plants, or specialize in eating only one kind. Either way, no plant-eating insect will eat every green thing it finds. There must be some way for insects to know which plant is which, and to find the right food plant for its own species. How do they do it?
Avoiding Bed Bugs at Hotels
How do bed bugs get in your home? They travel home with family members who stay in bed bug infested hotels, usually. Learn how to avoid bed bugs at hotels by planning wisely, inspecting thoroughly, and taking control measures when you return home.
How do bed bugs get in your home? They travel home with family members who stay in bed bug infested hotels, usually. Learn how to avoid bed bugs at hotels by planning wisely, inspecting thoroughly, and taking control measures when you return home.
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.
Can Insects Hear?
Most insects can hear, and use sounds to communicate and to navigate their environment. There are four types of insect auditory organs.
Most insects can hear, and use sounds to communicate and to navigate their environment. There are four types of insect auditory organs.
Nason's Slug
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.
Exploding Bombardier Beetles
Bombardier beetles top the list of strange but effective insect defenses. Potential predators learn a hard lesson when they mess with the bombardier beetle.
Bombardier beetles top the list of strange but effective insect defenses. Potential predators learn a hard lesson when they mess with the bombardier beetle.
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.
Asian Longhorned Beetle
The Asian Longhorned Beetle, an invasive pest from China, was discovered in New York and Illinois in the 1990's. So far, the only method of control for Asian Longhorned Beetles requires removing and chipping infested trees, along with potential host trees, in the area where it is discovered. A well-informed public may be our best defense against this invasive species.
The Asian Longhorned Beetle, an invasive pest from China, was discovered in New York and Illinois in the 1990's. So far, the only method of control for Asian Longhorned Beetles requires removing and chipping infested trees, along with potential host trees, in the area where it is discovered. A well-informed public may be our best defense against this invasive species.
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.
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.
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.
Assassin Bugs, Cunning Killers
Assassin bugs may be the most cunning killers in the insect world. Some assassin bugs specialize in certain kinds of prey, and employ all kinds of trickery to capture a meal.
Assassin bugs may be the most cunning killers in the insect world. Some assassin bugs specialize in certain kinds of prey, and employ all kinds of trickery to capture a meal.
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 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.
Julia Heliconian
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
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.
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.
Emerald Swallowtail
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Spiracle
Definition of the term spiracle.
Definition of the term spiracle.
Get to Know a Butterfly
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Great Eggfly
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Display of Pupae
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
The brown marmorated stink bug, a native of eastern Asia, was discovered in several U.S. states in the past ten years. Its status as a serious agricultural pest makes its presence a cause for concern. Get to know this insect, and report any sightings to your county extension office.
The brown marmorated stink bug, a native of eastern Asia, was discovered in several U.S. states in the past ten years. Its status as a serious agricultural pest makes its presence a cause for concern. Get to know this insect, and report any sightings to your county extension office.
Zebra Longwing
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Ants
The social ants serve important functions in the ecosystem. Ants aerate and turn the soil, defend plants, pollinate flowers, and disperse seeds. In places where ants exist, they comprise 15-20% of the terrestrial animal biomass. That's a lot of ants.
The social ants serve important functions in the ecosystem. Ants aerate and turn the soil, defend plants, pollinate flowers, and disperse seeds. In places where ants exist, they comprise 15-20% of the terrestrial animal biomass. That's a lot of ants.
Live Butterflies Up Close
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Insects in Firewood
Firewood can harbor insects, from boring beetles to carpenter ants. Invasive insects transported in firewood can infest new areas, leading to the loss of thousands of trees. You can minimize insect problems by collecting and storing your firewood properly.
Firewood can harbor insects, from boring beetles to carpenter ants. Invasive insects transported in firewood can infest new areas, leading to the loss of thousands of trees. You can minimize insect problems by collecting and storing your firewood properly.
Order Diptera
Insects of the order Diptera, the true flies, are a large and diverse group that includes midges, no-see-ums, gnats, mosquitoes, and all manner of flies. Diptera literally means "two wings," the unifying characteristic of this group.
Insects of the order Diptera, the true flies, are a large and diverse group that includes midges, no-see-ums, gnats, mosquitoes, and all manner of flies. Diptera literally means "two wings," the unifying characteristic of this group.
Owl Butterfly
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Order Odonata
The order Odonata includes dragonflies and damselflies, dedicated predators of other insects. Odonates begin life in ponds, streams, and other freshwater sources.
The order Odonata includes dragonflies and damselflies, dedicated predators of other insects. Odonates begin life in ponds, streams, and other freshwater sources.
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 Molt
Insects grow in increments; in fact, all arthropods do. Each stage of growth ends with molting, the process of shedding and replacing the rigid exoskeleton. People often think molting is the simple act of an insect breaking out of its skin and leaving it behind. In truth, the molting process is a complex one involving hormones, proteins, and enzymes.
Insects grow in increments; in fact, all arthropods do. Each stage of growth ends with molting, the process of shedding and replacing the rigid exoskeleton. People often think molting is the simple act of an insect breaking out of its skin and leaving it behind. In truth, the molting process is a complex one involving hormones, proteins, and enzymes.
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.
10 Facts About Mosquitoes
Here are 10 things you didn't know about mosquitoes.
Here are 10 things you didn't know about mosquitoes.
Order Phasmida
The order Phasmida includes some of the best camouflage artists in the insect world - the stick and leaf insects. In fact, the order name comes from the Greek word phasma, meaning apparition. The order is sometimes called Phasmatodea.
The order Phasmida includes some of the best camouflage artists in the insect world - the stick and leaf insects. In fact, the order name comes from the Greek word phasma, meaning apparition. The order is sometimes called Phasmatodea.
Banded Orange Heliconian
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Atlas Moth
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Want to see live tropical butterflies in winter? The American Museum of Natural History in New York City exhibits live butterflies in an indoor butterfly conservatory. The butterfly exhibit is open from October to May.
Tersa Sphinx
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Black Swallowtail
The Black Swallowtail, one of North America’s most common butterflies, frequently visits backyard gardens. Nicknamed parsley worms, the caterpillars feed on parsley, dill, fennel, and other members of the carrot family. This article is a profile of the Black Swallowtail, Papilio polyxenes.
The Black Swallowtail, one of North America’s most common butterflies, frequently visits backyard gardens. Nicknamed parsley worms, the caterpillars feed on parsley, dill, fennel, and other members of the carrot family. This article is a profile of the Black Swallowtail, Papilio polyxenes.
How Grasshoppers Sing
Grasshoppers and crickets belong to the same order, but they produce their sounds differently. Crickets rub their wings together. How do grasshoppers produce sound?
Grasshoppers and crickets belong to the same order, but they produce their sounds differently. Crickets rub their wings together. How do grasshoppers produce sound?
Why Crickets Stop Chirping
At night, crickets chirp loudly. If you move toward them, however, they will instantly stop chirping and stay silent. Why do chirping crickets stop chirping when you move?
At night, crickets chirp loudly. If you move toward them, however, they will instantly stop chirping and stay silent. Why do chirping crickets stop chirping when you move?
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.
How Do Fireflies Light?
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, use light signals to attract mates. A complex chemical reaction in the firefly's light organ produces light energy efficiently.
Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, use light signals to attract mates. A complex chemical reaction in the firefly's light organ produces light energy efficiently.
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.
Order Dictyoptera
The order Dictyoptera includes two unlikely cousins - the cockroaches and the mantids. Though these groups may seem quite different at first, cockroaches and mantids share a number of characteristics.
The order Dictyoptera includes two unlikely cousins - the cockroaches and the mantids. Though these groups may seem quite different at first, cockroaches and mantids share a number of characteristics.
Blacklegged Tick
Walk in the woods anywhere in the northeastern U.S., and you stand a good chance of encountering this ectoparasite best known for spreading Lyme disease. Most people refer to this species as the deer tick.
Walk in the woods anywhere in the northeastern U.S., and you stand a good chance of encountering this ectoparasite best known for spreading Lyme disease. Most people refer to this species as the deer tick.
Make a Pitfall Trap
A pitfall trap is an essential tool for catching and studying ground-dwelling insects, particularly springtails and ground beetles. You can build and set up a simple pitfall trap in less than half an hour, using recycled materials.
A pitfall trap is an essential tool for catching and studying ground-dwelling insects, particularly springtails and ground beetles. You can build and set up a simple pitfall trap in less than half an hour, using recycled materials.
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?
Calculating the Time of Death
The forensic entomology is most often used to calculate the postmortem interval, or time of death, of a corpse in a suspicious death. Using known physiological information about the insect species found on a cadaver, a forensic entomologist can calculate the time when flesh-eating insects first invaded the body.
The forensic entomology is most often used to calculate the postmortem interval, or time of death, of a corpse in a suspicious death. Using known physiological information about the insect species found on a cadaver, a forensic entomologist can calculate the time when flesh-eating insects first invaded the body.
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.
Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle
One of our most common lady beetles, the Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle, is actually a native of Asia. Now well-established across North America, this hungry predator devours aphids and other soft-bodied insects in gardens and home landscapes.
One of our most common lady beetles, the Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle, is actually a native of Asia. Now well-established across North America, this hungry predator devours aphids and other soft-bodied insects in gardens and home landscapes.
Subclass Apterygota
The characteristics of insects in the subclass Apterygota.
The characteristics of insects in the subclass Apterygota.
Termites
Homeowners live in fear of termites. These social insects feed on the cellulose in wood and wood by-products, including the structural lumber of buildings. Termites of the order Isoptera first appeared over 250 millions years ago. The name Isoptera means equal wing; primary reproductive adults have two pairs of wings, equal in length.
Homeowners live in fear of termites. These social insects feed on the cellulose in wood and wood by-products, including the structural lumber of buildings. Termites of the order Isoptera first appeared over 250 millions years ago. The name Isoptera means equal wing; primary reproductive adults have two pairs of wings, equal in length.
Fireflies
Fireflies flash their Morse code signals across lawns and fields on warm summer nights. They're easy to recognize from afar, but do you know what they look like up close?
Fireflies flash their Morse code signals across lawns and fields on warm summer nights. They're easy to recognize from afar, but do you know what they look like up close?
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.
Assassin Bugs
What's cooler than an assassin bug? As their name suggests, these insects are skilled hunters and natural born killers. Which is good, if you have a garden full of pests. It's worth getting to know these beneficial bugs.
What's cooler than an assassin bug? As their name suggests, these insects are skilled hunters and natural born killers. Which is good, if you have a garden full of pests. It's worth getting to know these beneficial bugs.
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.
Mexican Redknee Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
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?
Sphinx Moths
Members of the family Sphingidae, the sphinx moths, attract attention with their large size and ability to hover. Gardeners and farmers will recognize their larvae as the pesky hornworms that can wipe out a crop in a matter of days.
Members of the family Sphingidae, the sphinx moths, attract attention with their large size and ability to hover. Gardeners and farmers will recognize their larvae as the pesky hornworms that can wipe out a crop in a matter of days.
Six Butterfly Families
Identifying butterflies begins with learning the six butterfly families. The first five families – swallowtails, brush-foots, whites and sulphurs, gossamer-wings, and metalmarks – are called the true butterflies. The last group, the skippers, are sometimes considered separately. All are beautiful to observe.
Identifying butterflies begins with learning the six butterfly families. The first five families – swallowtails, brush-foots, whites and sulphurs, gossamer-wings, and metalmarks – are called the true butterflies. The last group, the skippers, are sometimes considered separately. All are beautiful to observe.
How Do Insects Smell?
Insects rely largely on their sense of smell to find mates, locate food, and avoid predators. You may know that most insects use their antennae to smell, but how does the insect decipher what it's smelling?
Insects rely largely on their sense of smell to find mates, locate food, and avoid predators. You may know that most insects use their antennae to smell, but how does the insect decipher what it's smelling?
Courtship Rituals
Female insects have a lot of possible choices when it comes to mates. To stand out among the competition, males will use all kinds of courtship rituals, from gift giving to aphrodisiacs.
Female insects have a lot of possible choices when it comes to mates. To stand out among the competition, males will use all kinds of courtship rituals, from gift giving to aphrodisiacs.
Eastern Tent Caterpillar
Eastern tent caterpillars are best recognized by their characteristic silken tents in the crotches of cherry and apple trees. These moth larvae may be confused with another spring caterpillar, the gypsy moth, or by another tent builder, the fall webworm. Get to know the eastern tent caterpillars characteristics and habits.
Eastern tent caterpillars are best recognized by their characteristic silken tents in the crotches of cherry and apple trees. These moth larvae may be confused with another spring caterpillar, the gypsy moth, or by another tent builder, the fall webworm. Get to know the eastern tent caterpillars characteristics and habits.
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.
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.
Gypsy Moth
The World Conservation Union ranks the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, on its list of "100 of the World's Most Invasive Alien Species." Accidentally introduced to the U.S. in the late 1860's, the gypsy moth now consumes a million acres of forest each year, on average.
The World Conservation Union ranks the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, on its list of "100 of the World's Most Invasive Alien Species." Accidentally introduced to the U.S. in the late 1860's, the gypsy moth now consumes a million acres of forest each year, on average.
Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Brazilian Black Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Praying Mantises: Mantodea
The easy-to-recognize praying mantis is a fascinating insect to observe. With a head that swivels, large eyes, and legs clasped in a prayer-like stance, mantids seem almost human.
The easy-to-recognize praying mantis is a fascinating insect to observe. With a head that swivels, large eyes, and legs clasped in a prayer-like stance, mantids seem almost human.
Simple Diffusion
Definition of the term simple diffusion.
Definition of the term simple diffusion.
Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Most Toxic Insect Venom
Among the venomous insects, some possess only mildly toxic venom, while others pack a serious punch capable of taking down a threat as large as a person. Which insect has the most toxic venom of all?
Among the venomous insects, some possess only mildly toxic venom, while others pack a serious punch capable of taking down a threat as large as a person. Which insect has the most toxic venom of all?
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.
Desert Blond Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Tobacco Hornworm
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Tools for Collecting Insects
Insects are everywhere, but without the proper tools to collect and observe them, you may never find them. These "must have" tools are easy to use and most can be made with household materials. Fill your entomology toolbox with the right nets and traps to explore insect diversity in your own backyard. This article identifies and describes the equipment you need to collect live insects.
Insects are everywhere, but without the proper tools to collect and observe them, you may never find them. These "must have" tools are easy to use and most can be made with household materials. Fill your entomology toolbox with the right nets and traps to explore insect diversity in your own backyard. This article identifies and describes the equipment you need to collect live insects.
Cockroaches and Nuclear Bombs
Can cockroaches really survive a nuclear blast? You might be surprised.
Can cockroaches really survive a nuclear blast? You might be surprised.
Hummingbird Clearwing
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Sphinx moths are strong, rapid fliers with thick bodies and pointed abdomens. Their distinct body shape and large size make them easy to recognize and fun to photograph.
Dichotomous Key
Definition of the term dichotomous key.
Definition of the term dichotomous key.
Mexican Redleg Tarantula
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Once you do decide you'd like to own a pet tarantula, you'll need to decide what kind to get. This photo gallery will introduce you to some of the more popular pet tarantula species, to help you decide which tarantula is right for you.
Ground Beetles
Ground beetles hide under rocks and boards by day, and hunt insects and other invertebrates by night. Most are predatory in both the larval and adult stages, making ground beetles true powerhouses among the beneficial insects of the garden.
Ground beetles hide under rocks and boards by day, and hunt insects and other invertebrates by night. Most are predatory in both the larval and adult stages, making ground beetles true powerhouses among the beneficial insects of the 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.
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.
Monarch Migration
Monarch butterflies are the wings down champions of migrating insects, completing the longest two-way migration. The North American Monarch populations fly south each fall, and return north in the spring.
Monarch butterflies are the wings down champions of migrating insects, completing the longest two-way migration. The North American Monarch populations fly south each fall, and return north in the spring.
Monarch Butterfly Emerging from a Chrysalis
A collection of photographs taken as a Monarch butterfly emerged from its chrysalis. The series of photos begins with the chrysalis beginning to split, and ends with the Monarch's wings fully expanded.
A collection of photographs taken as a Monarch butterfly emerged from its chrysalis. The series of photos begins with the chrysalis beginning to split, and ends with the Monarch's wings fully expanded.
Toxicology of Cadaver Insects
Soft tissues decompose first, and any toxicological evidence disappears along with those tissues. When a body is found too late to recover tissue samples, though, there's still a way to test for drugs or toxins. Insects recovered from the cadaver may contain all the toxicological evidence needed to solve the case.
Soft tissues decompose first, and any toxicological evidence disappears along with those tissues. When a body is found too late to recover tissue samples, though, there's still a way to test for drugs or toxins. Insects recovered from the cadaver may contain all the toxicological evidence needed to solve the case.
Emerald Ash Borer
In the eastern U.S., emerald ash borer may be the worst tree pest of all. Since its accidental introduction from Asia in the 1990's, emerald ash borers have killed millions of ash trees. Worse still, this invasive pest is spreading. Make sure you know how to identify it when it reaches your neck of the woods.
In the eastern U.S., emerald ash borer may be the worst tree pest of all. Since its accidental introduction from Asia in the 1990's, emerald ash borers have killed millions of ash trees. Worse still, this invasive pest is spreading. Make sure you know how to identify it when it reaches your neck of the woods.