https://bugoftheweek.com/blog daily 1.0 2026-03-29 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/3/29/destination-eastern-north-america-to-revisit-jor-spiders-trichonephila-clavata-spreading-in-their-new-home-in-the-united-states monthly 0.5 2026-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1d2479d1-7b0e-4f90-ac09-700436e2c61a/joropaula.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Eastern North America to revisit Jorō spiders, Trichonephila clavata, spreading in their new home in the United States - Make it stand out This is just one of the lovely Jorō spiders that now call Maryland home. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c7985a07-7503-429f-a4f4-f174bd2e4d2d/Joro2.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Eastern North America to revisit Jorō spiders, Trichonephila clavata, spreading in their new home in the United States - Make it stand out Despite what you may have heard, the Jorō spider is docile and poses no known threat to humans or pets. Image credit: David Coyle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c8e40cb6-cd42-496e-905e-54315a16ccc0/bobbellingerJoro2024+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Eastern North America to revisit Jorō spiders, Trichonephila clavata, spreading in their new home in the United States - Make it stand out The underside of the Jorō spider has striking red markings. Image credit: Bob Bellinger https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/3/22/destination-rainforests-of-central-america-to-meet-a-behemoth-of-the-cockroach-clan-blaberus-giganteus-the-central-american-giant-cave-cockroach monthly 0.5 2026-03-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b9598a6-d1d7-4967-b2b9-69ed4a9819b4/Giant+cave+roach+in+hand.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Rainforests of Central America to meet a behemoth of the cockroach clan, Blaberus giganteus, the Central American giant cave cockroach - Make it stand out At almost five inches in length this is not the cockroach you want to find on the kitchen floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8540d95f-ee05-473a-8fce-e17ab0fb7b1f/adult+roach+on+bark+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Rainforests of Central America to meet a behemoth of the cockroach clan, Blaberus giganteus, the Central American giant cave cockroach - Make it stand out Central American giant cave cockroaches are omnivores consuming several types of decaying organic matter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6f70360d-9355-4c9a-b782-cb9aac0d205f/giant+cave+roach+nymph+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Destination: Rainforests of Central America to meet a behemoth of the cockroach clan, Blaberus giganteus, the Central American giant cave cockroach - Make it stand out Wing buds developing on the thorax of this giant cockroach nymph are a sure sign that the molt to winged adult is not far off. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/3/15/destination-new-south-wales-australia-for-a-visit-with-the-macleays-spectre-extatosoma-tiaratum monthly 0.5 2026-03-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/aa7d3ad1-b7a9-4d06-9e7f-19dc5bc18115/femalemjr.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: for a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, Extatosoma tiaratum - Make it stand out Is that a dead leaf or an insect clinging to a branch? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a92d7bb6-309d-4c47-9046-a7796555a1d0/defendingattack2025.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: for a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, Extatosoma tiaratum - Make it stand out A startling display of bristling spines warns predators to think twice before attacking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/61ded52b-58c7-4963-8239-114b145c6ea7/male+copymjr.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: for a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, Extatosoma tiaratum - Make it stand out Smaller male Australian walking sticks also use expanded body parts and unusual postures to deceive predators by resembling withered parts of plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/3/9/destination-malaysia-to-meet-a-giant-jungle-nymph-heteropteryx-dilatata monthly 0.5 2026-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bc728689-5164-4901-8001-ec9a3826db28/spinesclose.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia to meet a giant: Jungle nymph, Heteropteryx dilatata - Make it stand out A forest of sharp spines on head, legs, and body present a challenge to predators attempting to eat this large phasmid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/607c7898-fee6-4dce-bf15-4894f5309134/junglenymphhiding+copy2500p.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia to meet a giant: Jungle nymph, Heteropteryx dilatata - Make it stand out The combination of foliage-matching coloration and glacially slow movements help the jungle nymph escape the searching eyes of predators in the rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/3/2/destination-malaysia-pollinators-beware-of-the-orchid-mantis-hymenopus-coronatus monthly 0.5 2026-03-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d7064ac8-d13c-4dde-ad56-97a3fe8d915d/mantisonorchid.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Pollinators beware of the orchid mantis, Hymenopus coronatus - Make it stand out This may be the last thing a pollinator sees before it gets eaten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/26c6e176-db74-45aa-918f-21c71bac52c8/mantispeeking.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Pollinators beware of the orchid mantis, Hymenopus coronatus - Make it stand out Who is that masquerading as part of an orchid blossom? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/15a4255b-3fe3-41f7-8401-ec212a7f5f94/mantisspines.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Pollinators beware of the orchid mantis, Hymenopus coronatus - Make it stand out Wicked spines on the foreleg of the orchid mantis are used to capture prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/94afd2a8-c071-4068-8980-a5dfa054c8c3/Mantis+on+hand.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Pollinators beware of the orchid mantis, Hymenopus coronatus - Make it stand out Expanded legs resembling flower petals and wings tinted like fading leaves help the orchid mantis pose as part of a blossom. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/2/23/destination-toucan-ridge-belize-to-meet-one-of-the-largest-beetles-in-the-americas-elephant-beetle-megasoma-elephas monthly 0.5 2026-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3dd58be6-9cbb-4391-9dc2-8b02ef7e09cb/rhinoadele.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize, to meet one of the largest beetles in the Americas: Elephant beetle, Megasoma elephas - Make it stand out Elephant beetles are one of the largest beetles in the Americas. Would it be a thrill or a terror to have one on your shoulder? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c9a60e0a-12ee-474e-8c92-19af152b1302/maleandfemaleelephant.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize, to meet one of the largest beetles in the Americas: Elephant beetle, Megasoma elephas - Make it stand out Female elephant beetles lack horns and can be much smaller (left) than enormous horned male beetles (right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4a9b0b68-5dde-4d5b-bc23-e14001f54bfe/elephantlarvae+copy6.6x4.4.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize, to meet one of the largest beetles in the Americas: Elephant beetle, Megasoma elephas - Make it stand out Imagine how big elephant beetle larvae will be when fully developed. These two are only about halfway grown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4865add4-81d0-41c3-afb1-3cc5b65b054e/studentscaracol.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize, to meet one of the largest beetles in the Americas: Elephant beetle, Megasoma elephas - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/2/16/destination-caracol-belize-tiny-scorpions-on-the-tree-bark-nah-false-scorpions-pseudoscorpiones monthly 0.5 2026-02-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/94829fce-1bf5-4251-8147-c07fa3016e4f/pseudoscorp2.jpg Current Issue - Destination Caracol, Belize: Tiny scorpions on the tree bark? Nah, false scorpions, Pseudoscorpiones - Make it stand out Large, impressive pinchers of the pseudoscorpion immobilize and dismember small arthropods that are prey for these tiny, fierce predators. Some species may be found in homes in temperate regions, where they pose no threat to humans or pets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3e2d50dc-9a2f-43d2-944c-8073d2d78e82/belizestudents+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Caracol, Belize: Tiny scorpions on the tree bark? Nah, false scorpions, Pseudoscorpiones - Make it stand out On the steps of a pyramid at Caracol, students from the University of Maryland explore the wonders of tropical rainforests and Mayan civilizations. Image: Luis Godoy https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/2/9/destination-toucan-ridge-belize-to-experience-the-fluorescence-and-sting-of-rainforest-scorpions-centruroides-spp monthly 0.5 2026-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3f37133c-179f-4036-b197-2130c049bcf5/scorpionglow3+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to experience the fluorescence and sting of rainforest scorpions, Centruroides spp. - Make it stand out A scorpion is revealed amongst leaves on the rainforest floor as it fluoresces bluish-green when illuminated by rays of a blacklight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2b56ad91-2851-46bb-98ef-ac080a65aa1d/scorp2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to experience the fluorescence and sting of rainforest scorpions, Centruroides spp. - Make it stand out Scorpions are not insects. They belong to another part of the arthropod clan called arachnids and are relatives of spiders and ticks. The scary pinchers on the front end of the scorpion are its pedipalps. They are used for grasping and dismembering insects and spiders that comprise most of the scorpion’s meals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/228d6434-f1df-4636-86b8-20d27b8c9871/scorp3+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to experience the fluorescence and sting of rainforest scorpions, Centruroides spp. - Make it stand out If this sting gets you, you will be sending out an SOS to the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a99c2f3f-096d-4b0b-8f6d-146592ba9a05/belizestudents2026.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to experience the fluorescence and sting of rainforest scorpions, Centruroides spp. - Make it stand out On the steps of a pyramid at Caracol, students from the University of Maryland explore the wonders of tropical rainforests and Mayan civilizations. Image: Luis Godoy https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/2/2/destination-toucan-ridge-belize-to-visit-beautiful-peacock-butterflies-white-peacock-butterfly-anartia-jatrophae-and-banded-peacock-butterfly-anartia-fatima-and-learn-their-dating-games monthly 0.5 2026-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/89b6bce1-04d0-4039-a031-aa3dfab7b4b2/bandedpeacock.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit beautiful peacock butterflies: White peacock butterfly, Anartia jatrophae, and banded peacock butterfly, Anartia fatima and learn their dating games - Make it stand out Contrasting colors of dorsal wing bars make the banded peacock one of the most beautiful butterflies in the rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/778124b7-0cfc-4b7b-a84f-a3c26a980017/whitepeacock.webp Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit beautiful peacock butterflies: White peacock butterfly, Anartia jatrophae, and banded peacock butterfly, Anartia fatima and learn their dating games - Make it stand out When not seeking mates or larval food plants, white peacocks tank up on carbohydrate-rich tropical flowers like lantana. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/71973103-34a3-4d9d-b6ea-242158364886/studentscaracol.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit beautiful peacock butterflies: White peacock butterfly, Anartia jatrophae, and banded peacock butterfly, Anartia fatima and learn their dating games - Make it stand out On the steps of the high pyramid of Caracol students from the University of Maryland explore the wonders of tropical rainforests and Mayan civilizations. Image credit: Luis Godoy https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/1/26/destination-toucan-ridge-belize-to-visit-rainforest-recyclers-conehead-termites-nasutitermes-spp monthly 0.5 2026-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/41dc6fec-03f1-4247-98af-92c6aa17880f/nausut2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Conehead termites, Nasutitermes spp. - Make it stand out Soldiers of different termite species have unique adaptations for repelling enemies. Depending on the species of termite, soldiers are armed with jaws that stab, cut, snap or whack an enemy. Termite soldiers in this nest are chemical warriors known as nasutes. These highly evolved termites have dark brown heads with a long, tubular snout, called a nasus. From this nasus, they squirt sticky defensive secretions that can entangle, irritate, and repel invading enemies such as ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cf280f90-1ca9-4bbb-a957-6c9929423324/mudtubebelize+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Conehead termites, Nasutitermes spp. - Make it stand out Dark trails of soil, wood particles, and feces mark the corridors used by sunlight-fearing termites to reach food sources in the canopies of trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b96bba6-f463-4f68-9c2b-58dd1fe93ffd/Termite+nest+copy15x10.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Conehead termites, Nasutitermes spp. - Make it stand out Strange, large, coffee-brown objects adorning trees in the rainforest are aerial nests of termites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/880c9ec3-f09d-417f-8260-622b07352aaf/termites+swarm+copy10x15.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Conehead termites, Nasutitermes spp. - Make it stand out Scores of termite solders scramble to protect the colony when the outer protective shell has been breached. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bdc98b9d-ce0a-43d0-a8e7-376bbb8ab858/belizestudents+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Toucan Ridge, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Conehead termites, Nasutitermes spp. - Make it stand out Atop the high pyramid of Caracol, students from the University of Maryland explore the wonders of tropical rainforests and Mayan civilizations. Image: Tarique Domingo https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/1/12/destination-monteverde-cloud-forest-a-visit-with-beautiful-and-perfumy-eulaema-orchid-bees monthly 0.5 2026-01-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a6b65012-99b0-4d6b-b6bc-988632394642/Eulaema+polychrome.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest: a visit with beautiful and perfumy Eulaema orchid bees - Make it stand out Orchid bees use their remarkably long proboscis, often called a tongue, to collect nectar from blossoms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9d704324-586d-4eaa-ae62-65f89587ef18/Eulaemaflight.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest: a visit with beautiful and perfumy Eulaema orchid bees - Make it stand out Even in flight Eulaema has its proboscis ready for action. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/1/5/destination-monteverde-cloud-forest-costa-rica-life-is-on-a-roll-in-a-roll-rolled-leaf-hispine-beetle-cephaloleia-spp monthly 0.5 2026-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5741335c-de80-4517-aaa5-48e1f94b19f8/Cephaloleia+quadrilineata.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Life is on a roll in a roll – Rolled-leaf hispine beetle, Cephaloleia spp. - Make it stand out Unrolling an unexpanded Heliconia leaf reveals a lovely rolled-leaf hispine leaf beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b4d5a81f-a336-47c7-b0de-1b48f4253035/Beetlefeeding.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Life is on a roll in a roll – Rolled-leaf hispine beetle, Cephaloleia spp. - Make it stand out What caused these unusual holes and marks on the Heliconia leaf? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/17cfad64-dc12-4a2e-a1a8-bcb5e9dd7be1/larva2.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Life is on a roll in a roll – Rolled-leaf hispine beetle, Cephaloleia spp. - Make it stand out For strange rolled-leaf hispine larvae it is difficult to tell the head from the tail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c72f8295-c540-4273-a8c3-07f63e9a29bf/beetleatedge+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Life is on a roll in a roll – Rolled-leaf hispine beetle, Cephaloleia spp. - Make it stand out Different species of rolled-leaf hispine beetles have unique feeding sites leaving distinct feeding marks on plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2026/1/5/destination-monteverde-cloud-forest-costa-rica-striking-gold-and-spittle-in-the-cloud-forest-golden-froghopper-mahanarva-costaricensis monthly 0.5 2026-01-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5d668565-ab49-4c96-b9a7-77390d875b42/goldenfroghopper.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Striking gold and spittle in the cloud forest - Golden Froghopper, Mahanarva costaricensis - Make it stand out It’s easy to see why this pretty insect is called the Golden Froghopper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6eaad89e-2e1f-40df-a5a3-853a93a54819/Heliconia.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Striking gold and spittle in the cloud forest - Golden Froghopper, Mahanarva costaricensis - Make it stand out Beautiful Heliconia plants are home to many insects, including the Golden Froghopper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/398421c7-3944-43d2-a2b2-cee220d2b623/spittle2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Striking gold and spittle in the cloud forest - Golden Froghopper, Mahanarva costaricensis - Make it stand out What’s this? It looks like spittle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/82e03985-9cda-4e25-8a03-6037c05b0d98/spittle3+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Striking gold and spittle in the cloud forest - Golden Froghopper, Mahanarva costaricensis - Make it stand out A cute spittlebug nymph wonders what happened to its bubbles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f7006896-c87e-4fb2-8cd9-ff094d658905/spittleadult+copy.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica: Striking gold and spittle in the cloud forest - Golden Froghopper, Mahanarva costaricensis - Make it stand out Our native froghoppers like this one are often relatively drab. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/12/22/twas-the-week-before-christmas-giant-bark-aphids-longistigma-caryae-and-giant-willow-aphids-tuberolachnus-salignus monthly 0.5 2025-12-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c674b874-2845-456c-840e-13d96cee4b6a/giantaphidclose2_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae, and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out Some adult giant bark aphids have wings and others do not. These are the largest aphids in North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/33871fd3-59da-4360-af0e-eb8eacc5d8f3/barkaphidsanta+Carr.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae, and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out On the branch of a beautiful oak tree, giant bark aphids are tended by ants. This classic mutualism, with ants protecting aphids from predators and parasites and in return receiving honeydew from aphids, is a partnership found in several countries around the world. Image credit: Catherine Carr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/af9240a8-75a1-4efa-95a7-55b13aa941e1/giantwillow5_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae, and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out In this colony of giant willow aphids, the large female on the upper left portion of the branch is giving birth to a daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8772a4e3-595a-4705-bf34-223c76946d36/giantbarkaphidandeggs2_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae, and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out Eggs of the giant bark aphid are the overwintering stage. They line small branches by the thousands and change from amber to black as they age. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/48879d0b-f725-4d7a-9ff5-a6b4f0bfd12a/beechristmas20192a.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae, and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/12/15/a-friendlier-type-of-drone-common-drone-fly-eristalis-tenax monthly 0.5 2025-12-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9ce83e31-29a4-4944-9f86-33251c3bfa5e/commondronefly+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - A friendlier type of drone: Common Drone Fly, Eristalis tenax - Make it stand out Drone flies in the genus Eristalis, like the common drone fly Eristalis tanex, are striking mimics of stinging bees and wasps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a5ff2df4-6abe-43ad-8dce-ec5e68de3871/dronecluster1+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - A friendlier type of drone: Common Drone Fly, Eristalis tenax - Make it stand out To survive the wicked winter, drone flies seek shelter and huddle in small nooks inside caves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cf7f5fc4-b8fe-4694-8fb4-986b291ba12d/Eristalis_sp._%2825588804434%29+%281%29+copy.jpg Current Issue - A friendlier type of drone: Common Drone Fly, Eristalis tenax - Make it stand out Larval drone flies called rat-tailed maggots thrive in water fouled with manure. In these aquatic habitats they exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the atmosphere through an elongated siphon on their rear end. Donald Hobern. This image was originally posted to Flickr by dhobern at https://flickr.com/photos/25401497@N02/25588804434. It was reviewed on 11 April 2016 by FlickreviewR and was confirmed to be licensed under the terms of the cc-by-2.0. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/238435fe-d5b8-4dc1-9b84-55efca5a16a0/drone+fly+on+aster+copy_Cropped.jpg Current Issue - A friendlier type of drone: Common Drone Fly, Eristalis tenax - Make it stand out Pollination of many kinds of flowering plants is an important ecosystem service provided by several species of drone flies. Members of the aster family are some of their favorites. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/11/23/when-feather-leg-flies-meet-leaffooted-bugs-trichopoda-pennipes-and-acanthocephala-spp monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f24d2ca1-1929-4c48-b156-c061777fe261/featherleggfly.jpg Current Issue - When feather-leg flies meet leaffooted bugs: Trichopoda pennipes and Acanthocephala spp. - Make it stand out Feather-leg flies, common visitors to goldenrods, tank-up on carbohydrates to power their search for members of the true bug clan that serve as hosts for their developing larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3efd6146-0aaf-404d-9964-0a1127386659/leaffootedtachinid+copy.jpg Current Issue - When feather-leg flies meet leaffooted bugs: Trichopoda pennipes and Acanthocephala spp. - Make it stand out Two white eggs deposited just behind the head of this leaffooted bug are the handiwork of a tachinid fly. They spell doom for this hapless hemipteran. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/11/23/be-thankful-for-bees-this-thanksgiving-blue-orchard-mason-bees-rufus-backed-cellophane-bees-squash-bees-perplexing-bumble-bees-and-honey-bees monthly 0.5 2025-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a9c0d19c-7f1f-41c2-b4af-827b433bcac6/honeybeeonbeggertick+copy.jpg Current Issue - Be thankful for bees this Thanksgiving: Blue orchard mason bees, Rufus-backed cellophane bee, squash bees, perplexing bumble bees, and honey bees - Make it stand out Hard-working honey bees pollinate several delicious fruits and vegetables gracing our Thanksgiving Table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cf1478f0-89f8-4a9b-ad4a-57a816c0cf4e/blueorchardmason.jpg Current Issue - Be thankful for bees this Thanksgiving: Blue orchard mason bees, Rufus-backed cellophane bee, squash bees, perplexing bumble bees, and honey bees - Make it stand out Just in time to pollinate cherry trees, blue orchard mason bees emerge in early spring ensuring lots of cherries for cherry pies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0f91dde2-1a35-4083-ad47-8d6fe59c2d55/plasterer1+copy.jpg Current Issue - Be thankful for bees this Thanksgiving: Blue orchard mason bees, Rufus-backed cellophane bee, squash bees, perplexing bumble bees, and honey bees - Make it stand out Super cute ground nesting bees like this cellophane bee emerge when apple trees are in bloom. They help bring fruit fillings for tasty apple pies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c51fca5f-4e54-4ecc-b09f-f0cb47c654f6/curcurbitmale+copy.jpg Current Issue - Be thankful for bees this Thanksgiving: Blue orchard mason bees, Rufus-backed cellophane bee, squash bees, perplexing bumble bees, and honey bees - Make it stand out Squash bees specialize in pollinating members of the cucumber family including jolly sugar pumpkins perfect for pumpkin pie. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/09128746-e8d0-4e30-a606-087c28e29556/perplexingbumblebee.jpg Current Issue - Be thankful for bees this Thanksgiving: Blue orchard mason bees, Rufus-backed cellophane bee, squash bees, perplexing bumble bees, and honey bees - Make it stand out In addition to pollinating scores of native plants, bumble bees like this pretty perplexing bumble bee, buzz-pollinate tasty treats like blueberries for pies and cranberries for yummy cranberry sauce. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/11/17/does-a-recent-home-invader-also-invade-caves-in-the-dmv-greenhouse-camel-cricket-tachycines-asynamorus monthly 0.5 2025-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ccceb37f-998f-4458-acc3-6bf28f9575db/femalegreenhousecamelcricket.jpg Current Issue - Does a recent home invader also invade caves in the DMV? Greenhouse camel cricket, Tachycines asynamorus - Make it stand out Super long antennae and a saber-like ovipositor (egg-laying appendage) grace the front end and rear end, respectively, of a greenhouse camel cricket deep inside a Western Maryland cave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e97b91e3-a55a-4685-b3a5-512fba0409e1/camelfecal+copy.jpg Current Issue - Does a recent home invader also invade caves in the DMV? Greenhouse camel cricket, Tachycines asynamorus - Make it stand out Fecal deposits left by herds of camel crickets foul the inside of human-made structures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8f6f0410-3e2c-4c64-bee4-78767809930f/asiancaemltoolshed+copy.jpg Current Issue - Does a recent home invader also invade caves in the DMV? Greenhouse camel cricket, Tachycines asynamorus - Make it stand out Greenhouse camel crickets like this one have invaded man-caves and tool sheds like mine in several states in the US. It is interesting that these crickets also invade natural caves in the DMV as well. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/11/10/can-losing-a-leg-save-a-life-autotomy-in-leaffooted-bugs-leptoglossus-acanthocephala-and-diactor monthly 0.5 2025-11-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/405aadb0-b9a1-43d9-b400-a345e8e4ae52/diactor1.jpg Current Issue - Can losing a leg save a life? Autotomy in leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus, Acanthocephala, and Diactor - Make it stand out A fantastic tropical leaffooted bug, a.k.a. flag–footed bug, in the genus Diactor shows off a remarkable flag on its remaining hind leg. What happened to the other leg? Let’s find out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fcd759bc-8b1e-44dd-ae29-0ab0d5545d78/leaf+foot6.jpg Current Issue - Can losing a leg save a life? Autotomy in leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus, Acanthocephala, and Diactor - Make it stand out Leaffooted bugs here in the DMV sport impressive flags on their hind legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5652540a-89d1-4f04-a158-f56c92c92813/leafnymph3.jpg Current Issue - Can losing a leg save a life? Autotomy in leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus, Acanthocephala, and Diactor - Make it stand out A gaggle of leaffooted bug nymphs dines on a pumpkin vine. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/11/3/recyclers-of-jack-o-lanterns-fruit-flies-drosophilidae monthly 0.5 2025-11-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5fede5b5-e495-48d7-8fd0-27bda4b0e718/fruitfly2025.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of Jack O’ Lanterns: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae - Make it stand out What has bright vermilion eyes, two wings, and an extraordinary fondness for pumpkins and over-ripe fruit? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f29f6743-5ff0-467f-861d-716c21cf808a/DIY+vinegar+trap.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of Jack O’ Lanterns: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae - Make it stand out Yeasty odors of fermenting fruit and wine vinegar lure scores of fruit flies and one fungus gnat to their death. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/10/27/bug-in-orange-and-black-milkweed-tussock-moth-euchaetes-egle-and-its-caterpillars-have-tricks-but-no-treats-for-hungry-predators monthly 0.5 2025-11-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/00ad7ece-9e39-49a8-8397-94983e8c0525/milkweedtigermjr.jpg Current Issue - Bug in orange and black: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle, and its caterpillars have tricks but no treats for hungry predators - Make it stand out This hairy milkweed tussock moth caterpillar has a scary trick but no treat for predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1e2d4d55-acc8-4d90-938f-e8db1a8976fd/adultmilkweedtussock.jpg Current Issue - Bug in orange and black: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle, and its caterpillars have tricks but no treats for hungry predators - Make it stand out Adult milkweed tussock moths sport Halloween colors and warn bats of their distastefulness with a spooky sound. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/10/13/thread-waisted-wasps-traveling-in-tandem-whats-that-about-thread-waisted-wasp-eremnophila-aureonotata monthly 0.5 2025-10-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8d348d72-99bf-43f4-ae53-2a453cec8481/threadwaisted_1500.jpg Current Issue - Thread-waisted wasps traveling in tandem - what’s that about? Thread-waisted wasp, Eremnophila aureonotata - Make it stand out Male thread-waisted wasps travel in tandem with their mate. Females visit blossoms searching for nectar to fuel their hunt for caterpillars, the food for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/de61a16b-357d-447a-8f19-b35140fa72a2/spotted+horse+mint_1500.jpg Current Issue - Thread-waisted wasps traveling in tandem - what’s that about? Thread-waisted wasp, Eremnophila aureonotata - Make it stand out Spotted horsemint rocks with pollinators on late summer and early autumn days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/25b094ae-1ebd-4311-bfdc-745d0a21dd7d/threadwastebenburgunder.jpg Current Issue - Thread-waisted wasps traveling in tandem - what’s that about? Thread-waisted wasp, Eremnophila aureonotata - Make it stand out Caterpillars stung and paralyzed by female thread-waisted wasps will become fresh meat for the wasp youngsters as they develop underground. Eremnophila aureonotata in Anne Arundel Co., Maryland (8/24/2024). Image: Benjamin Burgunder, some rights reserved (CC BY). https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/10/13/sad-fate-for-a-beautiful-sphinx-catalpa-sphinx-ceratomia-catalpae monthly 0.5 2025-10-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/90983f71-9556-40b7-9168-6f71e68bb179/catalpsphinx2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Sad fate for a beautiful sphinx: Catalpa sphinx, Ceratomia catalpae - Make it stand out Beautiful catalpa sphinx caterpillars are among the largest caterpillars found in the DMV. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7bf3c1b7-8fd1-4b80-8567-1fedd05583df/catalpasphinxWayne+Owen+copy.jpg Current Issue - Sad fate for a beautiful sphinx: Catalpa sphinx, Ceratomia catalpae - Make it stand out Adult catalpa sphinx moths blend in with substrates like the brown bark of trees. Thanks to Wayne Owen for the use of his great image. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fec9ce79-10aa-41c8-9e04-1338db0b2928/cotesiasmall+copy.jpg Current Issue - Sad fate for a beautiful sphinx: Catalpa sphinx, Ceratomia catalpae - Make it stand out Small Cotesia wasp larvae develop inside catalpa sphinx caterpillars before emerging through the cuticle and spinning white cocoons on the surface of their hapless host. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ae751500-ec87-4737-bf98-1372a5e59a63/catalpasphinxhorm+copy.jpg Current Issue - Sad fate for a beautiful sphinx: Catalpa sphinx, Ceratomia catalpae - Make it stand out Can this horn on the rearend of a catalpa sphinx caterpillar deliver an awful sting? Nope. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/10/6/yellow-picnic-pests-yellowjackets-vespula monthly 0.5 2025-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/054694d8-6b17-4af1-a1e6-2a014144195e/yellowjacketsoda2+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Scary picnic pests: yellowjackets and bees - Make it stand out Uh oh, better check that soda can to see if a zesty yellow surprise awaits inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3edfb7c5-67ac-4fca-bc35-e2fc6b32ede6/yellowj2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Scary picnic pests: yellowjackets and bees - Make it stand out Apple sauce in a cup is an irresistible source of sugar for a yellowjacket in autumn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/9/26/is-there-a-good-side-to-yellowjackets-yellowjackets-vespula-spp monthly 0.5 2025-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4ba87eed-a7b5-4a84-bdbe-fdda187b255d/yellowjacketbmsb2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Is there a good side to yellowjackets? Yellowjackets, Vespula spp. - Make it stand out Yellowjackets and their kin like this paper wasp find invasive species like brown marmorated stink bugs quite tasty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/48a87a68-9a6b-4247-8cf0-3314561f554c/yjslf2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Is there a good side to yellowjackets? Yellowjackets, Vespula spp. - Make it stand out Yellowjacket amongst the lanternflies. Is she there for honeydew or a lanternfly snack? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/9/22/fierce-southern-stingers-in-the-dmv-southern-yellowjackets-vespula-squamosa monthly 0.5 2025-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a137ca58-b7b2-4327-9370-87c0966e9b6c/southern+yellowjackets.jpg Current Issue - Fierce Southern Stingers in the DMV: Southern Yellowjackets, Vespula squamosa - Make it stand out After their paper nest was disturbed by a hedge trimmer, fierce southern yellowjackets were raring to attack anything that moves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ea67fb8c-fa84-46d8-9db1-4a18fd9dd32a/stingers.jpg Current Issue - Fierce Southern Stingers in the DMV: Southern Yellowjackets, Vespula squamosa - Make it stand out Several suicidal southern yellowjackets embedded their stingers into the flesh of my unfortunate neighbor. Image credit: Matt Sutton. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f3cdeabd-b258-4451-a745-505236125b52/ginnybrace2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Fierce Southern Stingers in the DMV: Southern Yellowjackets, Vespula squamosa - Make it stand out Mating pairs of southern yellowjackets may soon be seen as overwintering females (larger female wasp on bottom) are coupled with their mates (smaller male wasp on top). Image credit: Ginny Brace https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/9/15/mostly-sunny-with-a-chance-of-lanternflies-radar-sightings-of-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2025-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4d9cbb4d-0b99-4e52-ad31-bc646611dffe/1skinnylanternfly772.jpg Current Issue - Mostly sunny with a chance of lanternflies: Radar sightings of spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Slender spotted lanternflies like this one that landed on a small twig just before I snapped this photo are often flight capable, unmated females searching for suitable host plants on which to feed and produce batches of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d0ffbf40-c31d-4510-b766-ce9c876f001f/3rotundlanternfly1500.jpg Current Issue - Mostly sunny with a chance of lanternflies: Radar sightings of spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Rotund spotted lanternflies like this one with a bright yellow underbelly are generally mated females with limited flight ability. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3422f24d-1521-4c5c-a78a-83ca70bef4a5/slfdistribution.jpg Current Issue - Mostly sunny with a chance of lanternflies: Radar sightings of spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out This map shows the current locations of established infestations of spotted lanternflies (blue counties) throughout the eastern United States. Map courtesy of Brian Eshenaur and the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program of Cornell University. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f96b1bc4-0ef3-48e5-8023-cae894a9f3d2/4spottedlanternflyeggmass1500.jpg Current Issue - Mostly sunny with a chance of lanternflies: Radar sightings of spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Non-descript lanternfly egg masses are easily overlooked. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/40565975-97eb-4b03-a6d7-c86a02b7e37c/potential-distribution-of-spotted-lanternfly-in-United-States%2B-%2BCopy.webp Current Issue - Mostly sunny with a chance of lanternflies: Radar sightings of spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out This map shows the potential distribution of spotted lanternfly in the United States based on climatological data. Areas with the highest probability of supporting lanternflies appear in dark orange and areas unsuitable for lanternflies are white. Map courtesy of the Entomological Society of America at Entomology Today, October 3, 2019. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/9/8/jor-spiders-enjoy-their-new-home-in-the-dmv-jor-spider-trichonephila-clavata monthly 0.5 2025-09-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f833da4e-041e-405f-ab80-33cc052c5173/jorodorsal.jpg Current Issue - Jorō spiders enjoy their new home in the DMV: Jorō spider, Trichonephila clavata - Make it stand out This is just one of the lovely Jorō spiders that now call Maryland home. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b92a58fb-c0e2-42de-ba28-f1f70f6f69bd/bobbellingerJoro2024+copy.jpg Current Issue - Jorō spiders enjoy their new home in the DMV: Jorō spider, Trichonephila clavata - Make it stand out The underside of the Jorō spider has striking red markings. Image credit: Bob Bellinger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/36f3c687-11a4-487c-a6ad-c7648f54bed5/Joro2.jpg Current Issue - Jorō spiders enjoy their new home in the DMV: Jorō spider, Trichonephila clavata - Make it stand out Despite what you may have heard, the Jorō spider is docile and poses no known threat to humans or pets. Image credit: David Coyle https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/9/1/spider-webs-in-the-mist-funnel-weaving-spider-pennsylvania-grass-spider-agelenopsis-pennsylvanica monthly 0.5 2025-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f7ddfcb6-4d6b-4c25-a176-d793ffb077f6/agelinid1+copy.jpg Current Issue - Spider webs in the mist – Funnel weaving spider, Pennsylvania Grass Spider, Agelenopsis pennsylvanica - Make it stand out Ready to pounce on an unlucky passerby, the dappled Pennsylvania Grass Spider waits in the mouth of her funnel. Paula Shrewsbury image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/80c3c1a7-f94b-426a-8fb5-b0e321e86035/agelinidwebs+copy.jpg Current Issue - Spider webs in the mist – Funnel weaving spider, Pennsylvania Grass Spider, Agelenopsis pennsylvanica - Make it stand out A foggy morning mist reveals the handiwork of funnel weaving spiders on a small boxwood shrub in a neighbor’s yard. Paula Shrewsbury image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/89ffbd8b-ebee-49c1-80d7-50a2943880ef/webs.jpg Current Issue - Spider webs in the mist – Funnel weaving spider, Pennsylvania Grass Spider, Agelenopsis pennsylvanica - Make it stand out Watch your step. A morning mist reveals just how many spider webs are in a landscape. Mike Raupp image https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/8/25/lady-beetles-with-a-taste-for-beans-mexican-bean-beetles-epilachna-varivestis monthly 0.5 2025-08-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7f9ed165-124d-4e7c-8437-da3246da01ac/mexadlarvdammjr.jpg Current Issue - Lady beetles with a taste for beans: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis - Make it stand out Tiny jaws of Mexican bean beetle larvae and adults remove leaf tissue creating types of damage called etching and skeletonization. Raupp image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5f1fb998-23ac-42c4-9a7e-fa8e2b4f7a41/beandamagemr.jpg Current Issue - Lady beetles with a taste for beans: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis - Make it stand out Unprotected beans are devastated by Mexican bean beetle. Raupp image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ad0f70e4-c698-43fa-b87f-3b7ab89f4ecc/floatingrowmjr.jpg Current Issue - Lady beetles with a taste for beans: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis - Make it stand out With the cover pulled back you can see how well floating row covers can protect beans from Mexican bean beetles. Raupp image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2e50037e-6f25-4334-8396-2f769296fd4e/mexbbmjr.jpg Current Issue - Lady beetles with a taste for beans: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis - Make it stand out When harassed by predators or entomologists, Mexican bean beetles release irritating chemicals that can turn your skin orange. Raupp image https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/8/15/beleaguered-boxwoods-beware-box-tree-moth-cydalima-perspectalis-arrives-in-the-dmv monthly 0.5 2025-08-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5a09da6d-2f8e-41b5-9bf1-fd550195539c/BTMcaterpillar.jpg Current Issue - Beleaguered boxwoods beware, box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, arrives in the DMV - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e1896f83-a0f0-4d86-93c4-dbf72be80e7c/Joe+boggs1.jpg Current Issue - Beleaguered boxwoods beware, box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, arrives in the DMV - Make it stand out This pretty box tree moth is the new invasive culprit behind the threat to our boxwoods. Joe Boggs, OSU. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5f283375-ebf2-4a69-9107-351aecd7233a/btmlarvae+copy.jpg Current Issue - Beleaguered boxwoods beware, box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, arrives in the DMV - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/74afd912-50ed-4925-833c-10a459e24d3f/boxtreemothhabitus+copy2.jpg Current Issue - Beleaguered boxwoods beware, box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, arrives in the DMV - Make it stand out Discolored leaves of these boxwoods could be due to several biotic or abiotic factors. A closer investigation would reveal the telltale presence of caterpillars. Paula Shrewsbury image https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f79d3c16-4f08-48ef-80f2-83390f6b4fe4/Joeboggs2.jpg Current Issue - Beleaguered boxwoods beware, box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis, arrives in the DMV - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/8/11/swallowtails-where-art-thou-swallowtail-butterflies-papilionidae monthly 0.5 2025-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/36c2c21c-aa7c-4405-b4d2-b557369d99d5/Easterntigeroncupplant.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtails where art thou? Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae - Make it stand out Beautiful swallowtail butterflies like this eastern tiger swallowtail seem to be less common this year in parts of the DMV. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/630fc207-a195-4b7b-9727-6912d7eb354e/swallowtailspuddle+copy.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtails where art thou? Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae - Make it stand out While scarce at my home in Columbia, several species of swallowtails frequented the muddy banks of the Potomac River to gain nutrients. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8fcb6d9f-0ca4-4e51-b8d3-8cf5b3167fc9/silverspottedskipper26+copy.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtails where art thou? Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae - Make it stand out Pretty silver spotted skippers showed up right on schedule in my garden. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/7/30/a-fly-with-a-golden-touch-mydas-fly-mydas-clavatus monthly 0.5 2025-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/959b0aba-2392-4510-ae71-c9eb1be26869/mydashollyps+copy.jpg Current Issue - A fly with a golden touch? Mydas fly, Mydas clavatus - Make it stand out Mydas flies are among the largest of all flies in the world. Photo credit Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8116c780-d4c6-4721-b1ab-9bcde051fc32/oakstump.jpg Current Issue - A fly with a golden touch? Mydas fly, Mydas clavatus - Make it stand out The decaying stump of a large pin oak tree serves as a home for insect grubs, the critical food source for the larvae of the mydas fly. Mydas flies are often found resting near or actively searching the stump for places to deposit their eggs. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/77df8cee-1b82-44c2-b205-0ea4acc2f38e/mydaspumpkinps.jpg Current Issue - A fly with a golden touch? Mydas fly, Mydas clavatus - Make it stand out Stealthy black wings of the mydas fly give it a waspish appearance. Photo credit Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/7/20/uh-oh-murder-hornets-in-the-dmv-nope-just-male-cicada-killer-wasps-sphecius-speciosus monthly 0.5 2025-07-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1595249513799-0V317MCIA1ETV6NFOBRW/malecicadakiller2_adj.jpg Current Issue - Don't fear male cicada killer wasps, Sphecius speciosus Male cicada killers are harmless and beautiful…well, unless you are another male cicada killer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/7/15/look-out-dmv-here-come-dastardly-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2025-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/63490a74-5ed4-41f1-b68f-fbe3a9ed08d5/jamesmurdoch3+copy.jpg Current Issue - Look out DMV, here come dastardly spotted lanternflies – Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Is this an albino spotted lanternfly? Maybe not. Learn more below. Photo credit to James Murdock https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d4c58913-5172-49bb-8ac1-64ee7f8f0733/slfhoneydew2.jpg Current Issue - Look out DMV, here come dastardly spotted lanternflies – Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Honeydew excreted by spotted lanternfly forms a substrate for the growth of sooty mold on plants below. Sooty mold reduces photosynthetic capacity of underlying plants. M.J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/7/2/7zjt0gwtr40ro10qo8meibvhmuhhhz monthly 0.5 2025-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9a9976e6-780c-4460-91d3-7e17fcd7c6f6/wheelbugwheel_1925.jpg Current Issue - Wheel Bug Takes a Spin, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out Only Mother Nature and the wheel bug know the function of the wheel. M. J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9555fb45-9187-4c8a-9fc1-a02552a68911/Joshua+Colgin+wheelbug.jpg Current Issue - Wheel Bug Takes a Spin, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out This slightly dizzy wheel bug took a spin at 8000 fpm in a machine in a paper mill. Joshua Colgin https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/233043d2-f07e-40a3-8e05-04109f19243e/wheelbugeggsnymphs.jpg Current Issue - Wheel Bug Takes a Spin, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out Several weeks ago, brilliant red, black, and orange wheel bug nymphs hatched from eggs that survived last winter. M. J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/6/27/mason-bees-in-peril-when-parasitic-wasps-arrive-leucospid-wasp-leucospis-affinis monthly 0.5 2025-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b0e8b29-04aa-45d1-a894-cd2045325bba/Leucospid+wasp.jpg Current Issue - Mason bees in peril when parasitic wasps arrive – Leucospid wasp, Leucospis affinis - Make it stand out Anatomically unusual, leucospid wasps have their egg-laying tube called an ovipositor slung over the back. M. J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6ec7227e-aed1-4ad3-94a0-552dd2743c0f/masonparasites.jpg Current Issue - Mason bees in peril when parasitic wasps arrive – Leucospid wasp, Leucospis affinis - Make it stand out These parasitic wasp larvae brought an end to mason bee babies on which they fed. M. J. Raupp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/6/24/scary-eyes-in-the-dmv-giant-polyphemus-silk-moth-antheraea-polyphemus monthly 0.5 2025-06-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8fdf6ee3-e584-4ce5-bb00-654b54d32b08/polyphemus1+copy.jpg Current Issue - Scary eyes in the DMV – Giant Polyphemus silk moth, Antheraea polyphemus - Make it stand out Eyespots on the wings of Polyphemus might startle a would-be predator. M. J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7f156d51-7a27-420b-ad89-0a0819a0d1de/polyphemus+%282%29.JPG Current Issue - Scary eyes in the DMV – Giant Polyphemus silk moth, Antheraea polyphemus - Make it stand out The beautiful Polyphemus caterpillar is one of the largest caterpillars in North America M.J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/6/19/fly-with-a-fondness-for-legs-aphid-midges-aphidoletes-aphidomyza monthly 0.5 2025-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/57c7fae2-b697-4386-badc-9c959ddc3e32/PredMidge_Uroeucon_aphid_6_2025_PMS+copy+2.jpg Current Issue - Fly with a fondness for legs - aphid midges, Aphidoletes aphidomyza - Make it stand out Amidst a colony of brown ambrosia aphids death awaits in the from of predatory midge larvae of Aphidoletes aphidomyza. These fierce mini-monsters may consume dozens of aphids during their development. Circles mark the locations of predatory midges. Photo by Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/155a36e9-6985-4761-b293-3bdaecf8cfb8/dead+aphids.jpg Current Issue - Fly with a fondness for legs - aphid midges, Aphidoletes aphidomyza - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4bf3295f-c384-414d-b831-4531474060c1/adultmidge2.jpg Current Issue - Fly with a fondness for legs - aphid midges, Aphidoletes aphidomyza - Make it stand out Adult predacious midges are small delicate flies resembling their cousin, the boxwood leafminer. Photo by Mike Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/6/13/death-to-aphids-brown-ambrosia-aphid-uroleucon-ambrosiae-and-other-assorted-aphids-meet-flower-fly-larvae-syrphidae monthly 0.5 2025-06-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/af368da0-27d3-4501-b09d-d177e6fc9cbf/syrphid+and+aphid+2+copy.jpg Current Issue - Death to aphids: Brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae and other assorted aphids meet flower fly larvae, Syrphidae - Make it stand out Amidst a horde of brown ambrosia aphids, a syrphid fly larva attacks its next victim. M. J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/704ed0dd-8439-41ae-ade5-975d3bbcb834/cycloneda%2Bcopy1225adj.jpg Current Issue - Death to aphids: Brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae and other assorted aphids meet flower fly larvae, Syrphidae - Make it stand out This little Cycloneda lady beetle has her jaws wrapped around a juicy brown ambrosia aphid. M. J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/6/8/gnoqmlxp2makc0xqpsok59azmclytl monthly 0.5 2025-06-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/302a59cf-5350-4174-bd3b-c6dca9d6cfda/lightclean%2Bcopy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies celebrate 20 years of Bug of the Week – Fireflies, Lightning Bugs, Lampyridae - Make it stand out The underside view of an adult firefly reveals the whitish light organs where photocytes, cells that produce light, are located. Large eyes help fireflies find the glow of mates at night. M.J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bb9ed0f8-2a95-4894-83f4-cf07b86de724/luminorgans%2Bcopy6.5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies celebrate 20 years of Bug of the Week – Fireflies, Lightning Bugs, Lampyridae - Make it stand out Firefly larvae called glow worms have luminescent organs on the underside of their abdomen. M. J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c6d1c235-f712-48f5-aa8d-d2bd5b19d557/glow+worms.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies celebrate 20 years of Bug of the Week – Fireflies, Lightning Bugs, Lampyridae - Make it stand out A pair of firefly larvae snack on a hapless earthworm. M. J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/5/28/hey-beetles-leave-some-milkweed-for-the-monarchs-milkweed-leaf-beetle-labidomera-clivicollis monthly 0.5 2025-05-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/792590aa-d97d-4bfb-ba9d-1b02cdc8189b/milkweedleafexcellent8x11_adj.jpg Current Issue - Hey beetles, leave some milkweed for the monarchs: Milkweed leaf beetle, Labidomera clivicollis - Make it stand out Beautiful adult milkweed leaf beetles sport Mother Nature’s warning colors of orange and black. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/5/8/how-to-raise-a-crop-of-termites-eastern-subterranean-termites-reticulitermes-flavipes monthly 0.5 2025-05-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/747532cb-ea0f-4acd-8d67-5e35d998c399/Reticulitermes%2BQueen%2B%26%2BKing%2BB.L.%2BThorne%2Bcopyright%2Bphoto_adj.jpg Current Issue - How to raise a crop of termites: Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes - Make it stand out Meet the royals. The smaller king is on the left and his queen on the right. During her reign as queen, which may be decades, she will lay hundreds of thousands of eggs. Photo credit: Dr. Barbara L. Thorne (copyrighted) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b965ca81-6287-43fd-a4f0-af2fae2de7c4/DSC_3166+copy5x4.jpg Current Issue - How to raise a crop of termites: Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes - Make it stand out A neglected bag of mulch is a great place to raise a colony of termites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ce98da09-5f6e-444f-a993-e6de101c8230/workerandsoldier+copy5x4.jpg Current Issue - How to raise a crop of termites: Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes - Make it stand out Eastern subterranean termite soldiers have enlarged heads with powerful jaws. A tiny newly molted worker nymph is overshadowed by the huge soldier. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/5/5/a-spotted-lanternfly-is-born-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2025-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/686f1a12-dbb6-4dd3-b327-8fb2448f0b0b/wings1500.jpg Current Issue - A spotted lanternfly is born: Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out The adult spotted lanternfly is a beautiful insect, but this sap-sucking plant hopper is nonetheless harmful to many plants in both the nymph and adult stages. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4831651e-556a-4f68-af2f-07ee909eaa1a/hatchcloseup+copy958.jpg Current Issue - A spotted lanternfly is born: Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Throughout the DMV, wraithlike spotted lanternfly nymphs pop the lid on their egg case and hatch head-first from eggs deposited last autumn by females. They will resume their mischiefs feeding on plants and producing vast amounts of sticky honeydew. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/4/24/parasitoids-at-the-porch-light-ichneumon-wasps-ophioninae monthly 0.5 2025-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b7c76ca9-128f-409a-a9f5-ce0d3d53fbe9/ichneumonporch+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Parasitoids at the porch light: Ichneumon wasps, Ophioninae - Make it stand out On warm nights in late winter and early spring, Ophioninae wasps are regular visitors to my porch light. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6ec5a923-d7bf-472b-a9ab-bc1648edf3ce/trogus2+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Parasitoids at the porch light: Ichneumon wasps, Ophioninae - Make it stand out A beautiful ichneumonid wasp rests on the chrysalis of a swallowtail butterfly from which it emerged. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/98d9aea2-ad0a-4aa2-9b4c-0cf58800c213/megarhyssa+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - Parasitoids at the porch light: Ichneumon wasps, Ophioninae - Make it stand out The humongous ovipositor on this ichneumon wasp in the genus Megarhyssa is used to drill beneath the bark of tree to deposit an egg inside a larva developing deep within the wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/4/21/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-26-2025 monthly 0.5 2025-04-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b9b8f73d-f2f3-409e-84ca-19aa63f9e31c/Paulamarylandday+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 26, 2025 - Make it stand out Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/13df92e9-0cd1-4191-990c-1b7fef5cc1f1/giant+lubber+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 26, 2025 - Make it stand out The lovely lubber sports multiple defense techniques. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/dc9745ea-7204-4717-b153-3f911e5760e1/giantleafinsect1+copy1888.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 26, 2025 - Make it stand out Is that a leaf or a leaf insect? Come to the Insect Petting Zoo at Maryland Day to find out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ca71b1fa-2ff4-464d-b8e3-74d4ee6d69c1/adultlanternflyMikeRaupp+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 26, 2025 - Make it stand out The Spotted Lanternfly is a beautiful insect, but a dastardly plant pest and nuisance in your landscape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/4/10/what-is-that-bee-and-why-is-it-divebombing-me-male-eastern-carpenter-bees-xylocopa-virginica monthly 0.5 2025-04-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8dc86a11-9201-4170-817e-5df3f87a1996/malecarpenter+copy1656.jpg Current Issue - What is that bee and why is it divebombing me? Male eastern carpenter bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out Next time you are dodging carpenter bees, take a moment to check out their head. I’ll bet you will find a white patch on its face between its eyes, the hallmark of the male carpenter bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f6d8a7d2-76e5-4ffa-bc95-e7b334162651/DSC_5885+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What is that bee and why is it divebombing me? Male eastern carpenter bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out On the outside of a piece of wood all you see of the carpenter bee’s handiwork is a perfectly round hole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/37da7d98-6f70-4153-9300-90527fd18026/Carpbeegallery1500.jpg Current Issue - What is that bee and why is it divebombing me? Male eastern carpenter bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out But on the inside, you can see a gallery of brood chambers carved into the wood by the mother bee for her babies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1abaff68-3c0e-47c1-a598-1825dbaf4d5d/malefemalecarp1500b.jpg Current Issue - What is that bee and why is it divebombing me? Male eastern carpenter bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out On a chilly dewy morning in spring don’t be surprised to see a male carpenter bee (left) and a female carpenter bee (right) resting on a flower head. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/4/6/when-will-periodical-cicadas-of-brood-xiv-make-their-appearance-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2025-04-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/afab5c30-75fc-41f8-9a70-38a62f7defa4/broodXnymph_1442.jpg Current Issue - When will periodical cicadas of Brood XIV make their appearance? Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Almost-ready-to-emerge cicadas like this one lack dorsal black patches behind their red eyes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c9f64721-351f-45c7-acbb-457d6cb7fee6/cicada+emergence+2020b.jpg Current Issue - When will periodical cicadas of Brood XIV make their appearance? Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out This graph shows the range of cicada emergence dates in Maryland in 2020. These periodical cicadas, early risers of Brood X cicadas called stragglers, emerged one year in advance of their brood mates that appeared in 2021. Note an extremely early riser in April with the vast majority of cicadas emerging in late May and early June. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b9706449-8ec4-4414-a28c-25dc571c4a70/cicadanymphs1500.jpg Current Issue - When will periodical cicadas of Brood XIV make their appearance? Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Note the black patches just behind the head of each cicada on the morning of their emergence. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/3/26/do-cicadas-bite-or-sting-what-other-mischief-do-they-create monthly 0.5 2025-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/97a48737-6480-4d0a-a2a9-20967da0299d/cicadaovipositorbeakmjr.jpg Current Issue - Do cicadas bite or sting? What other mischief do they create? - Make it stand out Cicadas insert soda-straw-like sucking mouthparts called a beak or proboscis into plant tissues to obtain nutrients for growth and development. Adult feeding results in minimal damage to plants compared to injury caused when female cicadas use their ovipositor to slit branches. Into these wounds eggs are deposited in egg-nests. Eggs develop during spring and summer. Cicada nymphs will hatch from these eggs, drop to the earth, and develop underground for the next seventeen years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cabb7c45-61d3-46cd-bf2d-a4adc34e0d5c/damageexel+copy6x5.jpg Current Issue - Do cicadas bite or sting? What other mischief do they create? - Make it stand out Young saplings and recently transplanted trees growing rapidly in the open are often heavily damaged by cicadas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4697e1d7-c425-40a1-9c1b-5bcfb6529b0a/DSC_0333+copy6x10.jpg Current Issue - Do cicadas bite or sting? What other mischief do they create? - Make it stand out Wrapping trees in netting will prevent periodical cicadas from damaging branches of young trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a9c40790-dfdf-4b16-8c76-50ff18007d59/efficacy+of+netting.jpg Current Issue - Do cicadas bite or sting? What other mischief do they create? - Make it stand out Young linden trees protected by netting had virtually no egg-nests laid in their branches while those treated with a systemic insecticide or left untreated had hundreds of egg-nests deposited in their branches. Data from Ahern et al. 2005. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/3/22/will-brood-xiv-cicadas-appear-in-my-yard-here-are-some-clues monthly 0.5 2025-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ada8502b-e151-49c1-8ece-a3e5fbdcfdc8/fossorialleg+%282%29+copy640.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in my yard? Here are some clues - Make it stand out Perfectly shaped for moving soil, greatly expanded forelegs enable the mature cicada nymph to create a pathway to the world above ground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4da54eb8-a476-4cb8-bca8-957215d23d63/2IMG_3290Kenigsberg_1500.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in my yard? Here are some clues - Make it stand out Beneath this stately old tree, a raccoon ravaged this lawn in early March. Were periodical cicadas the object of its gastronomic desire? Image credit: L. Kenigsberg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e751c567-7f3b-4127-93d6-7e192d144b80/Fox_cropped_MRaupp_3_30_2021+copy789.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in my yard? Here are some clues - Make it stand out After feasting on periodical nymphs beneath my holly tree, this handsome fox headed for the hills and almost escaped my camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5d236aa9-47db-4fa4-ba6c-66b548f6b918/mudturretmjr.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in my yard? Here are some clues - Make it stand out In moist soils like this, cicadas build mud turrets over their emergence holes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a8588a89-23ec-4607-88d8-6380d5021d89/Cicada_Holes_UnderBricks_cropped_KJayd_4_11_2021+%282%29+copy528.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in my yard? Here are some clues - Make it stand out Lifting a stepping stone may reveal cicada nymphs peering out of their escape tunnels. Image credit: Kristin Jayd https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/3/18/will-brood-xiv-cicadas-appear-in-the-dmv-yes-no-and-maybe-magicicada-septendecim-magicicada-cassini-and-magicicada-septendecula monthly 0.5 2025-03-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4dd71564-4a8e-4407-8efc-f5bc7a8041d6/cicadaadult+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Will Brood XIV cicadas appear in the DMV? Yes, no, and maybe – Magicicada septendecim, Magicicada cassini and Magicicada septendecula - Make it stand out Will cicadaphiles in the DMV have a chance to see beautiful periodical cicadas near their homes this year? Yes, no, and maybe. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/3/10/jaws-of-the-jungle-leafcutter-ants-and-army-ants monthly 0.5 2025-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/82c223aa-1820-4ab1-92ce-63755ba987a8/1armyantjaws+copy2576.jpg Current Issue - Jaws of the jungle: Leafcutter ants and Army ants - Make it stand out Tales are told of the Mayans using ant soldiers to close wounds. Where these the sickle-shaped jaws of army ants or the powerful jaws of leafcutter ants? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/49a276c5-c5e2-4434-90ae-320fbb548cbb/leafcutterjaw+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Jaws of the jungle: Leafcutter ants and Army ants - Make it stand out We discovered that the jaws of a leafcutter ant could surely open a wound. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6446f52a-26d6-48e3-995e-4add84b1239b/leafcutterdam+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Jaws of the jungle: Leafcutter ants and Army ants - Make it stand out Leaves can look like this after a visit from leafcutter ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fbb832ec-88df-425b-901e-a2c622a5a517/1armyantjaws+copy2576.jpg Current Issue - Jaws of the jungle: Leafcutter ants and Army ants - Make it stand out Sickle-shaped jaws of the army ant soldier compressed the skin and likely could act as sutures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/add1a505-22cc-4dae-833c-0e9e9a803b37/outhouse_aabiv+copy1664.jpg Current Issue - Jaws of the jungle: Leafcutter ants and Army ants - Make it stand out Army ants sometimes make their bivouac in unusual places which can cause a bit of panic for someone using an outhouse in the rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/3/3/wicked-spines-and-long-legs-spell-trouble-at-night-for-creatures-in-the-rainforest-whip-spider-paraphrynus-spp monthly 0.5 2025-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/487c64dc-1659-4fce-a994-88dc0e823183/whipspiderpedipalps3+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Wicked spines and long legs spell trouble at night for creatures in the rainforest: Whip spider, Paraphrynus spp. - Make it stand out Once the spines of the whip spider get you, there is no escape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8f6fcbb9-a683-43a5-a4e8-8a112246c58b/whip+spider+whip+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Wicked spines and long legs spell trouble at night for creatures in the rainforest: Whip spider, Paraphrynus spp. - Make it stand out The whips of the whip spider are its incredibly long front legs used to locate prey, mates, and danger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/aeb85b98-cf68-47d3-9ccf-cd3f992ca768/tinywhipspider+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Wicked spines and long legs spell trouble at night for creatures in the rainforest: Whip spider, Paraphrynus spp. - Make it stand out Who knows what the leaflike expansions are for on the hind legs of this tiny whip spider? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/490dd5b5-8952-4a53-af83-408ee80c593b/DSC_2547.JPG Current Issue - Wicked spines and long legs spell trouble at night for creatures in the rainforest: Whip spider, Paraphrynus spp. - Make it stand out On the steps of El Castello at the Mayan ruin of Xunantunich, students discover Mayan history and look forward to nighttime adventures in a tropical rainforest where amazing insects and arachnids abound. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/2/24/spooky-eyes-on-the-stygian-rainforest-floor-headlight-beetles-fire-beetles-pyrophorus-spp monthly 0.5 2025-02-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2c5b3cf0-8807-4788-b961-40a402fd38fe/Pyrophorus++copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Spooky eyes on the Stygian rainforest floor: Headlight beetles, fire beetles, Pyrophorus spp. - Make it stand out Two whiteish patches on the pronotum of the headlight beetle contain specialized cells called photocytes. Reactions in the photocytes produce the beetle’s eerie greenish bioluminescence, reputed to be the brightest light in the insect world. Image: Paula M. Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f7c93e0e-e30e-4259-b405-5abaf9fc492a/studentsonpyramid+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Spooky eyes on the Stygian rainforest floor: Headlight beetles, fire beetles, Pyrophorus spp. - Make it stand out Atop the great pyramid at the Mayan site of Xunantunich mysterious forces from the past make visitors do strange things. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/2/15/a-friendly-encounter-with-a-very-large-tarantula-red-rump-tarantula-tliltocatl-vagans monthly 0.5 2025-02-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/26faadc7-7979-45d9-9654-e5db7aa50bf0/tarantula_1500.jpg Current Issue - A friendly encounter with a very large tarantula: Red Rump Tarantula, Tliltocatl vagans - Make it stand out Beautiful red rump tarantulas are powerful nocturnal hunters of small creatures in the rainforests of Belize. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6caf0645-ec71-4163-9837-9f07738977fc/DSC_2547.JPG Current Issue - A friendly encounter with a very large tarantula: Red Rump Tarantula, Tliltocatl vagans - Make it stand out On the steps of El Castello at the Mayan ruin of Xunantunich, students discover Mayan history and culture in a tropical rainforest where amazing insects and spiders abound. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/2/9/a-pair-of-pretty-assassins-assassin-bugs-reduviidae-in-the-rainforest monthly 0.5 2025-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c7b2451f-b43f-4728-8f21-57c400d2d666/Saica2+copy2300.jpg Current Issue - A pair of pretty assassins: Assassin bugs, Reduviidae, in the rainforest - Make it stand out Don’t let the brilliant color of this gorgeous Saica assassin bug fool you. The hook at the tip of its beak spells trouble for small creatures on the rainforest floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b5c7dabb-58a5-4130-98a4-74788f69adef/unknownassassin2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - A pair of pretty assassins: Assassin bugs, Reduviidae, in the rainforest - Make it stand out Among the spoils of a decimated colony of some unidentified sucking insects, this handsome assassin bug poses for a bug geek. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f7435ba0-c31b-47c6-bbe8-7f9ec16b7b66/studentsonruinEl+Castello+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - A pair of pretty assassins: Assassin bugs, Reduviidae, in the rainforest - Make it stand out At the Mayan ruin of Xunantunich, students discover Mayan history, culture, and insects of the tropical rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/2/2/bananas-in-belize-get-some-help-from-stingless-bees-stingless-bees-tribe-meliponini monthly 0.5 2025-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1d8c851a-9aec-4dd6-99dc-cfae8df27dca/trigona+and+banana+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bananas in Belize get some help from stingless bees: Stingless bees, tribe Meliponini - Make it stand out Stingless bees in the genus Trigona are important native pollinators for their evolutionary plant partners in Belize, and also for non-native crops like bananas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a230bf0b-b342-477d-b730-ffef29318837/Tretragoniscabee+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bananas in Belize get some help from stingless bees: Stingless bees, tribe Meliponini - Make it stand out While several workers guard the entry to the colony, a pretty worker is on its final approach to the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1d080a6a-0902-4929-a41c-11306f3bb2d2/studentsonruinEl+Castello+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bananas in Belize get some help from stingless bees: Stingless bees, tribe Meliponini - Make it stand out At the Mayan ruin of Xunantunich, students discover Mayan history, culture, and insects of the tropical rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2025/1/27/monarchs-ring-in-the-new-year-at-home-non-migratory-monarch-butterflies-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2025-01-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5b84bb61-dd2e-4f66-917c-3897a451107a/IMG_2409+copy2000+copyMR.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs ring in the New Year at home: Non-migratory Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out In parts of Florida where milkweeds and other flowering plants grow year-round, monarch butterflies abandoned the migratory life style and remain in the same region throughout the year. Even the week before Christmas, beautiful monarch chrysalises can be found. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ec21963f-5fce-4c21-b060-5585179d5fd3/IMG_2420+copy15x10.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs ring in the New Year at home: Non-migratory Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Amidst the fallen leaves of a deciduous oak tree a fully grown monarch caterpillar prepares to pupate on the petiole of a leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/284c1650-c4f3-424e-81ff-40f8777b0de2/IMG_2345+copy1500+copyMR.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs ring in the New Year at home: Non-migratory Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Tropical milkweeds provide nectar and pollen for adult monarchs and nutritious leaves for monarch caterpillars throughout the year, affording monarchs the opportunity for year-round residence in Florida, Hawai’i, and several other states and lands around the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/12/16/tinsel-the-christmas-spider-and-other-arthropods-that-decorate-your-holiday-tree monthly 0.5 2025-02-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fd764b36-8d56-4f61-95fb-d487c07ded1f/dewonweb+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel, the Christmas spider and other arthropods that decorate your holiday tree - Make it stand out When morning dew glistens on silken strands, it's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/05683d59-03d7-40d9-984b-fc0488c22aec/eggsac+copy3x2.5.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel, the Christmas spider and other arthropods that decorate your holiday tree - Make it stand out In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and decorate my tree with silk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7c3c5cdf-e846-402f-b31c-4e6dd4706bc5/basilicaeggcase+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel, the Christmas spider and other arthropods that decorate your holiday tree - Make it stand out Spider egg sacs like these of the Basilica spider on holly sometimes inadvertently enter homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/be0e66d0-c273-4260-b9bd-434b0025d784/DSC_4501+copy5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel, the Christmas spider and other arthropods that decorate your holiday tree - Make it stand out Egg cases of praying mantises can also find their way into your home. If you find one, place it outdoors in your garden and reap the benefit of this apex predator next spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ff30c743-9a07-4512-ac96-b2171ea589a9/Presentation1.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel, the Christmas spider and other arthropods that decorate your holiday tree - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/12/16/insects-roasting-on-an-open-fire-bess-beetles-passalidae-carpenter-ants-formicidae-darkling-beetles-tenebrionidae-and-longhorn-beetles-cerambycidae monthly 0.5 2024-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4d0da4d8-0c3b-44c6-bf29-5a6a1d3a9487/longhorned1+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Insects roasting on an open fire: Bess beetles, Passalidae, carpenter ants, Formicidae, darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae, and longhorn beetles, Cerambycidae - Make it stand out This handsome longhorn beetle developed in the woody tissues of a hackberry log. It’s easy to see why it is called a longhorn beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/566ad5bd-5b4b-4e71-b513-d305237e245b/woodpile+copy5x4.jpg Current Issue - Insects roasting on an open fire: Bess beetles, Passalidae, carpenter ants, Formicidae, darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae, and longhorn beetles, Cerambycidae - Make it stand out Buggy adventures arise when splitting firewood for chilly winter nights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e3700632-8390-4788-ab96-772c97d5a47c/Carp+ants+queens_copy3x3copy.jpg Current Issue - Insects roasting on an open fire: Bess beetles, Passalidae, carpenter ants, Formicidae, darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae, and longhorn beetles, Cerambycidae - Make it stand out Next year’s carpenter ant queens winter in voids beneath the bark of trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/12cf924f-2cc1-4f09-981c-a4391e1dd2b9/tenebes1500.jpg Current Issue - Insects roasting on an open fire: Bess beetles, Passalidae, carpenter ants, Formicidae, darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae, and longhorn beetles, Cerambycidae - Make it stand out Bevies of darkling beetles can often be found overwintering beneath the bark of trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/12/9/cold-weather-arrives-but-dont-let-your-guard-down-for-a-tick-attack-blacklegged-tick-ixodes-scapularis monthly 0.5 2024-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/86163490-a69a-4529-9f1b-c8e9f3abae5b/nymphonarm+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Cold weather arrives but don’t let your guard down for a tick attack: Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis - Make it stand out On a warm day after Thanksgiving, I was surprised to see this blacklegged tick nymph embedded in my arm. Be vigilant when going outdoors on warm winter days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68f7501b-571d-4f9f-badc-e4c9464b6169/5quest1500.jpg Current Issue - Cold weather arrives but don’t let your guard down for a tick attack: Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis - Make it stand out In a behavior known as questing, ticks will climb high on vegetation and then with outstretched legs try to snare a victim on warm days in late fall, winter, and early spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a052c20a-7b26-4f32-9c87-3e80dfdcaa43/seasonalLyme.jpg Current Issue - Cold weather arrives but don’t let your guard down for a tick attack: Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis - Make it stand out This great chart from the CDC demonstrates that tick borne illnesses like Lyme disease can be contracted during winter months as well as those in warmer seasons. Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/91af01c5-42a8-4e75-b283-83485d928098/blacklegengorg+copy1.5x1.5.jpg Current Issue - Cold weather arrives but don’t let your guard down for a tick attack: Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis - Make it stand out This fully engorged tick is likely to survive winter’s chill here in the DMV and turn her blood-filled abdomen into thousands of eggs which will be laid next spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/12/2/what-do-insects-do-in-winter-part-3-avoiding-the-big-chill-emerald-ash-borers-agrilus-plannipenis-ground-beetles-carabidae-fall-webworms-hyphantria-cunea monthly 0.5 2024-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b57b3a56-78dd-4056-be8d-72fa6ec5b7aa/eab+larvae+copy2900p.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter, Part 3? Avoiding the big chill: emerald ash borers, Agrilus plannipenis, ground beetles, Carabidae, fall webworms, Hyphantria cunea - Make it stand out Overwintering larvae of the dastardly emerald ash borer use cryoprotectants to survive wintry temperatures as low as – 60 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of Canada. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b475f77-79f1-459b-93e2-ae8a3e5c0733/3falww350_1500.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter, Part 3? Avoiding the big chill: emerald ash borers, Agrilus plannipenis, ground beetles, Carabidae, fall webworms, Hyphantria cunea - Make it stand out Fall webworms are freeze avoiders. In autumn webworms move from branches to refuges under leaves or in soil to pupate. They produce cryoprotectant compounds in their hemolymph and tissues to avoid a chilly death. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0dada7f4-1244-459f-b441-a0cf2dab0f8f/1kudzuad1976.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter, Part 3? Avoiding the big chill: emerald ash borers, Agrilus plannipenis, ground beetles, Carabidae, fall webworms, Hyphantria cunea - Make it stand out Some invasive species from the south like kudzu bugs have little ability to tolerate winter temperatures in the low teens or single digits. Their presence in colder regions results from periodic recolonizations following cold winters which they cannot survive. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/11/22/what-do-insects-do-in-winter-part-2-tolerating-the-big-chill-banded-woolly-bears-pyrrharctia-isabella-field-crickets-gryllus-spp-baldfaced-hornets-dolichovespula-maculata-and-others monthly 0.5 2024-11-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e2a08083-9bc4-4ba9-a9e6-ce8bfe60f9c6/baldqueen+copy881.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter, Part 2? Tolerating the big chill: Banded woolly bears, Pyrrharctia isabella, field crickets, Gryllus spp., baldfaced hornets, Dolichovespula maculata, and others - Make it stand out Baldfaced hornets survive winter’s chill by hunkering down beneath the bark or in decomposing wood of fallen trees. Ice-nucleating compounds manufactured by the hornet allow water molecules to freeze outside rather than inside cells where ice crystals could be lethal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/dcc794d7-05b1-482e-ab6d-09b69441e746/DSC_0100+copy7.5x6.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter, Part 2? Tolerating the big chill: Banded woolly bears, Pyrrharctia isabella, field crickets, Gryllus spp., baldfaced hornets, Dolichovespula maculata, and others - Make it stand out After finishing the season’s last meal, banded woolly bear caterpillars move to protected locations under ground cover, fallen leaves, or bark of fallen trees to overwinter. Cryoprotectant compounds such as glycerol produced by the caterpillar act like antifreeze, preventing its blood and cells from freezing and allowing the caterpillar to survive subfreezing temperatures. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/11/18/dashing-caterpillars-predicting-weather-and-preparing-for-winter-banded-woolly-bear-pyrrharctia-isabella-giant-woolly-bear-hypercompe-scribonia-and-saltmarsh-caterpillar-estigmene-acrea monthly 0.5 2024-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ac18e400-6e3f-48f1-b204-c241e52a8fec/woolly2+copy2522.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea - Make it stand out Does the wide orange band portend a mild winter ahead? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/de773a90-3bec-4a77-a35e-b2b5b8518f78/IsabellatigerKarinB1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea - Make it stand out The banded woolly bear turns into the pretty Isabella tiger moth. Image: Karin Burghardt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0fb4941f-3691-4476-b43b-c9d0465df81f/giantleopardmoth+copy2062.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea - Make it stand out When threatened, the giant woolly bear caterpillar presents a phalanx of stout spines punctuated by crimson rings between body segments – a strong warning to would-be predators and bug geeks. It’s astonishing that such a fearsome appearing creature should pupate into the delicate and gorgeous leopard moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7e9c3a5f-c562-4de4-a7ea-2807d8957d1b/Leopardmoth1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea - Make it stand out The mother of the giant woolly bear, an adult leopard moth, is a thing of beauty with black patterned white wings. Image: Chris Sargent https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/11/11/what-do-insects-do-in-winter-migrants-in-the-dmv-common-buckeye-junonia-coenia-variegated-fritillary-euptoieta-claudia-painted-lady-vanessa-cardui-large-milkweed-bug-oncopeltus-fasciatus monthly 0.5 2024-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9f704ca1-a11d-40b8-b181-514ecbfb0e2a/buckeyenectaring+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter? Migrants in the DMV: Common Buckeye, Junonia coenia, Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta Claudia, Painted Lady, Vanessa cardui, Large Milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out As my zinnias deliver their last blossoms, this pretty common buckeye sips nectar in preparation for its journey south to escape a chilly winter in the DMV. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/aed8aa45-bf0b-4378-8a29-445e2e512439/variegatedbask+copy5.6x4.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter? Migrants in the DMV: Common Buckeye, Junonia coenia, Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta Claudia, Painted Lady, Vanessa cardui, Large Milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out When not visiting flowers, variegated fritillaries often bask in the bright autumn sun before taking flight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/472cafcc-561c-4d1e-9d4a-77a1e19d50be/paintedladymigrant+copy15x13.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter? Migrants in the DMV: Common Buckeye, Junonia coenia, Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta Claudia, Painted Lady, Vanessa cardui, Large Milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out One of the most astounding migrants of the insect world, this pretty painted lady stopped by the flower bed to carbo-load before escaping to warmer climes in advance of winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/36e3b4e4-4775-49db-be50-0c18ba4dda22/largemilkweedbug+copy5x6.jpg Current Issue - What do insects do in winter? Migrants in the DMV: Common Buckeye, Junonia coenia, Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta Claudia, Painted Lady, Vanessa cardui, Large Milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out Large milkweed bugs are also seasonal migrants spending the summer in the DMV before retreating to warmer regions to escape northern winters. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/11/3/catching-up-with-magical-monarchs-monarch-butterflies-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2024-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/549e79ed-b8ae-4683-97b5-736e719ad080/monarchpines+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Catching up with magical monarchs: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Western monarch butterflies cluster on a Monterey Pine in the Monarch Sanctuary at Pacific Grove, California. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8cafcaf5-bc7e-4760-a33a-69b253b1815a/IMG_2064+copy6x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Catching up with magical monarchs: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out The Beavertail lighthouse at Beavertail State Park in Rhode Island is a great place to watch Eastern migratory monarchs heading south to their overwintering grounds in Mexico. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/be1c5b59-a947-4312-8bea-33f87fa6810b/monarchsign+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - Catching up with magical monarchs: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out If you can, plan a trip to Pacific Grove, California to visit the Monarch Sanctuary to witness one of the greatest wonders of the natural world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/aa66cae2-e406-4a57-9246-7265b22c50b8/milkweedandmonarch+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Catching up with magical monarchs: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Research indicates that milkweeds planted along the perimeter of butterfly gardens had 2.5-4 times more monarch eggs and larvae than those planted in the interior. So, if you want lots of monarch caterpillars and butterflies, plant the milkweeds at the edges of pollinator gardens. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/10/18/just-in-time-for-halloween-insect-zombies-mind-altered-crickets-ants-beetles-flies-and-cicadas monthly 0.5 2024-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/509d3f7f-8ab4-4497-b3e6-2ada1e6a3087/MASSOSPORA1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas - Make it stand out Massospora fungi will zombiefy periodical cicadas, taking control of their minds and behaviors while turning their abdomens into buff-colored fungus gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/35c7901f-3d3d-4aae-8c40-1e595ad9caef/crickbabe1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas - Make it stand out Crickets become “suicidal” after being infected by horsehair nematode worms. Click here to see images of horsehair worms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b30b7528-29b2-4ba8-a701-f0f9e8ad86a2/ophiocordyceps_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas - Make it stand out Ready to release their spores, parasol-like fruiting bodies of Ophiocordyceps rise from the corpse of their zombie ant host. Photo courtesy of David P. Hughes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d11a3dc7-ff05-4a01-8723-4734abb59833/seedcorn3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas - Make it stand out Seedcorn flies infected with Entomophthora climb high on plants. Their grotesquely swollen abdomens are attractive to male flies that will attempt to mate with them, thereby becoming infected and furthering the spread of Entomophthora. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f854f05c-a02e-47ea-bec5-1a43e9d6680a/Jack%2Bo%27%2BLantern.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/10/18/bugs-in-orange-and-black-a-spooky-halloween-trick-for-predators-small-and-large-milkweed-bugs-lygaeus-kalmii-and-oncopeltus-fasciatus monthly 0.5 2024-10-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/98ac8292-71cd-4e38-81b4-f1db958ddf56/smallmilkweed2018_1069.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: A spooky Halloween trick for predators, Small and large milkweed bugs, Lygaeus kalmii and Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out Small milkweed bugs are members of the cabal of milkweed feeders that sequester noxious cardiac glycosides from their host plant, a nasty trick on would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ff2822d6-57fa-4346-ab60-e76c57ea0eed/largemilkweedhorde2018_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: A spooky Halloween trick for predators, Small and large milkweed bugs, Lygaeus kalmii and Oncopeltus fasciatus - Make it stand out Predators beware of an unpleasant dining experience if you ignore the spooky Halloween colors displayed by large milkweed bug nymphs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/10/7/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-a-rainbow-arrives-to-preserve-our-air-from-the-infection-of-dungs-rainbow-dung-beetle-phanaeus-vindex monthly 0.5 2024-10-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5567bdef-126a-48f8-9403-cb8436bf7ea6/dungbeetle2+copy4132.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag a rainbow arrives to preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, Phanaeus vindex - Make it stand out A gorgeous male rainbow dung beetle bears an amazing horn. Image: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5a7b5860-e677-46e8-af5d-28df9c7481c3/dunghorse2+copy6.6x5.5.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag a rainbow arrives to preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, Phanaeus vindex - Make it stand out Large mammals generate large amounts of waste. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7b686a00-560f-4056-b42b-b2d5a2c95fc2/dung+copy7x6.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag a rainbow arrives to preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, Phanaeus vindex - Make it stand out Dung beetle larvae will turn a pile of horse manure into remarkable beetles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/10/7/watch-out-tree-of-heaven-native-and-invasive-insects-are-ready-to-wage-war-on-you-ailanthus-webworm-atteva-aurea-and-spotted-lanternfly-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2024-10-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3f4f68de-297a-4d44-8f00-bff983b11368/ailanthuswwadult+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Watch out Tree of Heaven, native and invasive insects are ready to wage war on you: Ailanthus webworm, Atteva aurea, and spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Many moths are nighttime feeders but beautiful ermine moths, the adult stage of ailanthus webworms, feed during the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/853800ed-cb54-4944-8a6f-daa620992ea5/IMG_1935+copy28x32.jpg Current Issue - Watch out Tree of Heaven, native and invasive insects are ready to wage war on you: Ailanthus webworm, Atteva aurea, and spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out After years of infestation by hordes of spotted lanternflies, Tree of Heaven like these two may succumb to their ancient nemesis from Asia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fafd7a60-89cf-4209-a7d6-b4ebfc131753/slfhorde2024+copy15x14.jpg Current Issue - Watch out Tree of Heaven, native and invasive insects are ready to wage war on you: Ailanthus webworm, Atteva aurea, and spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Spotted lanternflies often reach huge densities and rob vital nutrients from Tree of Heaven. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/9/30/eerie-green-lights-along-the-potomac-glow-worms-larval-lampyridae monthly 0.5 2024-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4ddccd25-06c0-4346-9f3e-e17436d48cb6/glow-worms2+copy1536.jpg Current Issue - Eerie green lights along the Potomac: Glow-worms, larval Lampyridae - Make it stand out A pair of glow-worms team up to enjoy a tasty earthworm meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2ffb548b-88b5-452a-8675-d97abacc3bb1/luminorgans+copy6.5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Eerie green lights along the Potomac: Glow-worms, larval Lampyridae - Make it stand out Glow-worms produce their eerie lights with paired luminescent organs on the underside of their abdomen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/9/15/field-crickets-invade-a-home-with-a-wake-up-call-fall-field-cricket-gryllus-pennsylvanicus monthly 0.5 2025-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a9262ebb-70f9-4fa2-ad02-beb89a2ac718/fieldcrick2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Field crickets invade a home with a wake-up call: Fall field cricket, Gryllus pennsylvanicus - Make it stand out While some home invaders are unwelcomed guests, the annual visit by field crickets always provides a bit of alright for me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c4160ae7-44b0-4756-83f0-babd3a970177/filescraper+copy.jpg Current Issue - Field crickets invade a home with a wake-up call: Fall field cricket, Gryllus pennsylvanicus - Make it stand out Melodious male crickets bear a multi-ridged structure called the file on one forewing. The opposite forewing bears a hardened structure called the scraper. As wings open and close, the file moves across the scraper creating vibrations, or chirps, that resonate from the cricket’s wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/9/15/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-whos-been-munching-on-my-deck-dogwood-sawfly-macremphytus-tarsatus monthly 0.5 2024-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f2a04cc7-afae-4c3f-9ab5-c5ea80ee631d/sawflyBobCauser+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s been munching on my deck? Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus - Make it stand out An almost fully developed dogwood sawfly larva checks out a deck to find the perfect spot to construct its winter refuge in wood. Image credit: Bob Causer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8b8c9e29-0c9a-4541-84c5-db76cdd2c64c/sawflyholesBobCauser+copy10x10.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s been munching on my deck? Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus - Make it stand out Several small pock marks reveal locations where dogwood sawflies attempted to construct overwintering galleries in a deck. Image: Bob Causer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a061ab13-40f5-4376-a75b-7a30ab176794/caterpillarsawfly+copy8x5.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s been munching on my deck? Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus - Make it stand out An easy way to tell the difference between caterpillars (the larvae of moths and butterflies) and sawfly larvae, is to count the pairs of appendages called prolegs on their abdominal segments. Caterpillars like the larva on top have five or fewer pairs of prolegs. Sawfly larvae like the one below usually have six or more pairs of prolegs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8c6dacd3-2b64-4289-8dab-419c86326d7f/dogwoodsawflies+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s been munching on my deck? Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus - Make it stand out Beautiful dogwood sawfly caterpillars assume their characteristic curly pose between bouts of defoliating dogwoods. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/9/9/fright-and-fun-courtesy-of-flying-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2024-09-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/105f1e6f-17e1-4325-9fd4-3786309837c0/squashedlanternfly+copy2339.jpg Current Issue - Fright and fun courtesy of flying spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Encounters with humans often result in lanternflies feeling a little flat. Image: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/08300945-e8db-431f-a032-0b96ac165430/IMG_2497+copy6x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Fright and fun courtesy of flying spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Why spotted lanternflies invaded this playground in Maryland remains a mystery. Image: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7bf51630-7dd7-4ddb-ae8c-213bf8846054/slfdist+copy7x6.jpg Current Issue - Fright and fun courtesy of flying spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Since its discovery in Berks County, Pennsylvania in 2014, spotted lanternfly has established populations in locations more than 600 miles away. New York State Integrated Pest Management Program of Cornell University. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/9/2/west-nile-virus-and-other-fly-borne-diseases-in-the-news-beware-of-disease-vectors-the-northern-house-mosquito-culex-pipiens-asian-tiger-mosquito-aedes-albopictus-and-other-biting-flies monthly 0.5 2024-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2414bd40-fbe8-4994-b149-796252a4a2af/cpipmol20172_underH2O.jpg Current Issue - West Nile Virus and other Fly Borne Diseases in the News - Beware of disease vectors: the Northern House mosquito, Culex pipiens, Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and other biting flies - Make it stand out Hungry Northern House mosquitoes, vectors of West Nile virus, are thriving and on the hunt for blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f309ef52-c8e6-4ae9-89c5-9a4973786b26/noseeum2022+copy3.5x3.3.jpg Current Issue - West Nile Virus and other Fly Borne Diseases in the News - Beware of disease vectors: the Northern House mosquito, Culex pipiens, Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and other biting flies - Make it stand out At only a few millimeters in length, tiny no-see-um midges can carry serious human viruses including the strange sloth fever virus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/baf60211-f3f6-44b6-9acb-68b896770f79/west+Nile+Incidence.jpg Current Issue - West Nile Virus and other Fly Borne Diseases in the News - Beware of disease vectors: the Northern House mosquito, Culex pipiens, Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and other biting flies - Make it stand out Historically, September is the second most common month to contract West Nile virus. Image courtesy of Centers for Disease Control https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/55d792cd-1494-44bf-b74e-5ed636d7fad3/feed2+copy2x1.3.jpg Current Issue - West Nile Virus and other Fly Borne Diseases in the News - Beware of disease vectors: the Northern House mosquito, Culex pipiens, Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and other biting flies - Make it stand out Asian tiger mosquitos are active during daylight hours. They vector important human diseases including dengue, chikungunya and Zika. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/47c5f4be-7e07-4aa4-843d-c9c33e660a41/3mosqbreeders.jpg Current Issue - West Nile Virus and other Fly Borne Diseases in the News - Beware of disease vectors: the Northern House mosquito, Culex pipiens, Asian Tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, and other biting flies - Make it stand out Wheelbarrows and pails full of water? Dump them now! They are nurseries for mosquito larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/8/26/pits-of-despair-for-ground-dwelling-insects-antlions-family-myrmeleontidae monthly 0.5 2024-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b760c62c-c14b-4561-a3df-fdfa84c188e9/antlionkenpaynter.jpg Current Issue - Pits of despair for ground dwelling insects: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae - Make it stand out This gorgeous adult Glenurus antlion made a surprising guest appearance on a window screen. Image credit: Ken Paynter https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/474b9d1b-e209-45b7-a982-6cd1a68ee725/antlionpits+copy+6x5.jpg Current Issue - Pits of despair for ground dwelling insects: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae - Make it stand out Conical pits in dry soil spell danger for ants and other small ground-dwelling arthropods. Death awaits at the bottom of the antlion’s pit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6e46aaa0-8893-40ff-8d1e-81f27e5d0a56/antlionlarvaraupp+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - Pits of despair for ground dwelling insects: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae - Make it stand out Wicked jaws of the antlion larva capture victims and drain their blood. Jaws are also used to construct the antlion’s pit and flick sand to capture prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68aae77c-5339-491e-bc0e-de7ad2c45230/antlionadult+copy+6x7.jpg Current Issue - Pits of despair for ground dwelling insects: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae - Make it stand out Adult antlions sometimes frequent vegetation in my garden. Females will find mates and return to dry sandy soils around my home to lay eggs in the soil. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/8/17/mellow-mallow-bees-ptilothrix-bombiformis monthly 0.5 2024-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bd081fa1-5c65-4a15-ab0e-a4d84a37e9f4/mallowbee6+copy.jpg Current Issue - Mellow mallow bees, Ptilothrix bombiformis - Make it stand out This pretty Ptilothrix bombiformis took a time-out from the business of gathering food for her young to glam for the bug geek with a camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1ce1218f-4850-44e8-ab9d-05ad99e36d04/gallerywithmudpellets.jpg Current Issue - Mellow mallow bees, Ptilothrix bombiformis - Make it stand out Piles of irregularly shaped mud pellets surrounding a turreted hole in the ground mark the nest site of Ptilothrix bombiformis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/8/12/throwback-monday-recyclers-in-the-circle-of-life-bess-beetles-odontotaenius-disjunctus monthly 0.5 2024-08-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/17a0feda-9350-4921-90d2-ed192bf67626/bessadultlarvae+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Throwback Monday: Recyclers in the circle of life - Bess beetles, Odontotaenius disjunctus - Make it stand out Look who is recycling a dead tree of heaven branch - a family of bess beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/53ee5c32-6dcc-4e25-8607-a9d4c8bb1c02/bessbeetlejaws1500.jpg Current Issue - Throwback Monday: Recyclers in the circle of life - Bess beetles, Odontotaenius disjunctus - Make it stand out These powerful jaws can gnaw through even super-tough wood like oak. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8adbeb48-6e45-4ef6-beb5-43c6d4c67dbe/bessbeetleashley1500.jpg Current Issue - Throwback Monday: Recyclers in the circle of life - Bess beetles, Odontotaenius disjunctus - Make it stand out Dilemma for a bess beetle at a picnic, “Do I go for the hamburger bun or find a dead tree to eat?” Image credit: Ashley May https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/8/5/early-rising-bees-in-the-pumpkin-patch-eastern-cucurbit-bee-peponapis-pruinosa-and-two-spotted-longhorn-bee-melissodes-bimaculatus monthly 0.5 2024-08-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fc0e6a2a-6c55-4e34-8f57-d11d05d4553e/curcurbitmale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Early rising bees in the pumpkin patch: Eastern cucurbit bee, Peponapis pruinosa, and two-spotted longhorn bee, Melissodes bimaculatus - Make it stand out Good morning, sir! A male eastern cucurbit bee greets the camera while another gathers food in a pumpkin blossom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8544d286-a9ea-4c34-9a09-bc8f1c42e096/two-spottedlonghornandcurcurbit+copy5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Early rising bees in the pumpkin patch: Eastern cucurbit bee, Peponapis pruinosa, and two-spotted longhorn bee, Melissodes bimaculatus - Make it stand out A female two-spotted longhorn bee shares a blossom with an eastern cucurbit bee at dawn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/7/28/bane-of-dogbane-the-beautiful-and-the-ugly-dogbane-leaf-beetle-chrysochus-auaratus-and-dogbane-webworm-saucrobotys-futilalis monthly 0.5 2024-07-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b70019e7-e6e7-484e-90ca-a0bec3c57c79/dogbaneleafbeetle+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Bane of dogbane, the beautiful and the ugly: Dogbane leaf beetle, Chrysochus auaratus, and dogbane webworm, Saucrobotys futilalis - Make it stand out In the meadow, beautiful dogbane leaf beetles can be found dining on leaves of dogbane. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/eb174cb1-9791-4e35-af81-5b9eb5b4198b/dogbanewebworm+copy3x3.jpg Current Issue - Bane of dogbane, the beautiful and the ugly: Dogbane leaf beetle, Chrysochus auaratus, and dogbane webworm, Saucrobotys futilalis - Make it stand out As they age, dogbane webworms will change color from leaf-blending green to aposematic orange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d99fa3f8-ef7b-4f50-877b-69b500e7e06f/dogbanewebwormwebs+copy3x3.jpg Current Issue - Bane of dogbane, the beautiful and the ugly: Dogbane leaf beetle, Chrysochus auaratus, and dogbane webworm, Saucrobotys futilalis - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/7/22/why-am-i-seeing-more-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2024-07-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/50d1d4e0-5b6c-4cec-b104-3d5410ce5c17/nymphsadults2+copy1898.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out In regions infested with spotted lanternflies bright red nymphs (left) are molting into adults (right) ready for mischief. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7d20176b-fcba-4465-b15c-b49d2d274439/HoneydewDSC_0112+copy6x6.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Vegetation beneath trees infested by spotted lanternflies glisten with honeydew excreted by lanternflies as they suck sap from trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/75f74bec-c18a-4ca6-a202-29e47da77174/slfmap.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Since its discovery in Berks County, PA a decade ago, with human assistance the spotted lanternfly has moved more than 600 miles to several states. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/feb2a51e-aa82-49d5-850a-dd41baf6b519/yellowjacket+copy7x7.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Sugar-rich honeydew excreted by spotted lanternflies attracts yellow jackets and other stinging insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/7/15/chafer-madness-oriental-beetle-anomala-orientalis-and-asiatic-garden-beetle-maladera-castanea monthly 0.5 2024-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/21954eb8-f801-49b2-ac38-7af15166a899/AsiaticandOriental+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Chafer madness: Oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis, and Asiatic garden beetle, Maladera castanea - Make it stand out Chafers such as exotic invasive Asian garden beetles (top) and Oriental beetles (bottom) can mean big trouble for your ornamental plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/39b71d36-dfb1-4422-a6a1-008d04e5818f/sunflowerdefoliatedbychafers+copy6x6.jpg Current Issue - Chafer madness: Oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis, and Asiatic garden beetle, Maladera castanea - Make it stand out Despoiling petals of my coneflowers is just another meal for the Oriental beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7c22dc71-bb37-482e-b2dd-79b45a014424/whitegrub+%281%29.jpeg Current Issue - Chafer madness: Oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis, and Asiatic garden beetle, Maladera castanea - Make it stand out Like other species of white grubs, Oriental beetle larvae consume the nutritious roots of plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/7/4/always-a-surprise-european-earwig-forficula-auricularia monthly 0.5 2024-07-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4b27752d-9f86-4a0d-90a4-9cc0cef3acdb/earwig1crop+copy1213.jpg Current Issue - Always a surprise: European earwig, Forficula auricularia - Make it stand out The earwig, my dear, is nothing to fear. Despite what you heard; it won’t climb in your ear. Those pinchers you see at the end of its tail are for picking up groceries, garbage, and mail. From “26 Things that Bug Me” by M.J. Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/65d0b289-95e8-42a8-bbb3-559ee3ad2190/DSC_1841+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Always a surprise: European earwig, Forficula auricularia - Make it stand out Clusters of earwigs are often found on flowers or foliage where they munch blossoms and leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/7/1/watch-out-monarda-munchers-a-wicked-wasp-is-coming-to-get-you-four-toothed-mason-wasp-monobia-quadridens monthly 0.5 2024-07-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/62273f4f-9321-41a8-ac88-ce8906534cb8/DSC_8434+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Watch out monarda munchers, a wicked wasp is coming to get you: Four-toothed mason wasp, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out When not hunting caterpillars, four-toothed mason wasps can be found pollinating a variety of plants like snow-on-the-mountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/285aa6a1-246c-4ff3-9f41-325df3cbcb57/beebalmdamage+copy3x3.jpg Current Issue - Watch out monarda munchers, a wicked wasp is coming to get you: Four-toothed mason wasp, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out Left unchecked, caterpillars of the raspberry pyrausta wreak havoc on blossoms of bee balm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1458679a-921a-44e8-b74f-ec33320b8c00/masonwasplarvae+copy1823+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - Watch out monarda munchers, a wicked wasp is coming to get you: Four-toothed mason wasp, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out I discovered these cells containing larvae of mason wasps in a channel of my living room window. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/6/23/fireflies-are-busy-flashing-for-mates-lampyridae-spp monthly 0.5 2024-06-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6db61b61-15b8-4266-a987-2f9d5108a5b4/lightningad+copy+6x4.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies are busy flashing for mates! Lampyridae spp. - Make it stand out An adult of the common eastern firefly, Photinus pyralis. In this picture, the head is sticking out from underneath the shield-like projection of the thorax. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b27df770-64d3-4e91-8fc2-5ff91fd46308/lightclean+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies are busy flashing for mates! Lampyridae spp. - Make it stand out Underside view of an adult firefly showing the abdomen where the light organ is located (white segments). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fce2ecf6-e237-43af-ade5-3a2ddd78ad28/glowworm1+copy7x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Fireflies are busy flashing for mates! Lampyridae spp. - Make it stand out Glow-worms, larvae of fireflies, are predators that live in the soil and search for prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/6/14/return-of-the-monarda-marauder-raspberry-pyrausta-pyrausta-signatalis monthly 0.5 2024-06-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/be856aa4-dccb-4c7e-94db-ac4c6395b8d7/raspberrypyraustaadult+copy1226.jpg Current Issue - Return of the monarda marauder: Raspberry pyrausta, Pyrausta signatalis - Make it stand out Eggs laid in buds of leaves and flowers by the pretty raspberry pyrausta moth hatch into hungry caterpillars ready to pillage monarda foliage and blossoms. Image: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d23cce0d-0cc7-4efb-9553-8e1bbafef9db/raspberrypyraustacaterpillar+copy17x16.jpg Current Issue - Return of the monarda marauder: Raspberry pyrausta, Pyrausta signatalis - Make it stand out A small creamy colored caterpillar is the marauder feasting on my flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/51693ddc-b1f3-4eeb-a37e-d514b8b358f8/pyraustadamage+copy5x5.5.jpg Current Issue - Return of the monarda marauder: Raspberry pyrausta, Pyrausta signatalis - Make it stand out Early generations of the raspberry pyrausta defoliate leaves and distort developing terminal buds. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/6/10/is-the-jor-spider-coming-to-your-neighborhood-trichonephila-clavata monthly 0.5 2024-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/985feb2c-93e2-4153-a7e6-9a09c07dfeec/Joro2+copy11x9.jpg Current Issue - Is the Jorō spider coming to your neighborhood? Trichonephila clavata - Make it stand out Despite what you may have heard, the Jorō spider is docile and poses no known threat to humans or pets. Image credit: David Coyle https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7bc84854-a768-48f2-a3a5-28405670b359/bobbellingerJoro2024+copy+2_11x9.jpg Current Issue - Is the Jorō spider coming to your neighborhood? Trichonephila clavata - Make it stand out The underside of the Jorō spider has striking red markings. Image credit: Bob Bellinger https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/6/1/from-the-mailbag-whats-that-fly-march-flies-in-may-bibionidae monthly 0.5 2024-06-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7d0810dc-065c-46cc-a5d7-7b259ce4c2dd/bibionidmale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: What’s that fly? March flies in May – Bibionidae - Make it stand out Large eyes of the male March fly provide excellent vision for chasing competitors and selecting mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/92e6752c-25c4-47ad-9e9e-4dad69bd9f27/BillMiller+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: What’s that fly? March flies in May – Bibionidae - Make it stand out This little male March fly piqued the interest of a nature enthusiast and inspired this episode. Image: Bill Miller https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/871970a2-f953-4233-b363-23331008e62a/bibholly1+copy4.3x4.2.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: What’s that fly? March flies in May – Bibionidae - Make it stand out March flies like this little beauty help pollinate spring blooming trees and shrubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/5/27/waxy-lady-beetles-come-to-the-rescue-of-pest-plagued-crapemyrtles-hyperaspis-spp monthly 0.5 2024-05-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ebd9d714-1f59-4799-b436-4721750a6298/hyperaspislarva+copyAdj.jpg Current Issue - Waxy lady beetles come to the rescue of pest-plagued crapemyrtles, Hyperaspis spp. - Make it stand out This white waxy creature is no pest. It is the larva of a Hyperaspis lady beetle, destroyer of dastardly crapemyrtle bark scale. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4e3d10c2-f28c-4bbf-ac74-49ebd59f3132/hyperaspis1+copy1397.jpg Current Issue - Waxy lady beetles come to the rescue of pest-plagued crapemyrtles, Hyperaspis spp. - Make it stand out Adult Hyperaspis beetles will continue the carnage of crapemyrtle bark scales. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/5/20/from-the-mail-bag-oh-theyre-back-and-theyre-bad-spotted-lanternfly-nymphs-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2024-05-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9458143a-ad60-480f-8f57-c3f7ac701df1/Nymphs+on+leaves+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mail bag - “Oh they’re back and they’re bad”: Spotted lanternfly nymphs, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Spotted lanternfly nymphs are back, and they’re bad! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7303296b-2e4c-470a-8291-dcf2bdefc57d/lanternflyhatch+copy6x6.jpg Current Issue - From the mail bag - “Oh they’re back and they’re bad”: Spotted lanternfly nymphs, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Tiny, wraithlike spotted lanternfly nymphs pop the lid on their egg case and hatch head-first from eggs deposited last autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8f9587ca-1830-45af-a373-d6aafe039e0e/DSC_4501+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - From the mail bag - “Oh they’re back and they’re bad”: Spotted lanternfly nymphs, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Ravaging hordes of spotted lanternfly nymphs may be controlled by natural enemies, by simple mechanical means such as knocking them into soapy water, or by the use of OMRI approved pesticides. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/5/13/vanishing-viburnums-vandalism-by-the-viburnum-leaf-beetle-pyrrhalta-viburni monthly 0.5 2024-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c1c6380f-bdb4-41d2-a079-fc8c2293f8b7/vlblarva+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Vanishing viburnums: vandalism by the Viburnum leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta viburni - Make it stand out Larvae of viburnum leaf beetles can lay waste to beautiful viburnums. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7fa017f4-a6aa-4c77-ad7c-8820acdf2faf/vlbdamclose2+copy6.5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Vanishing viburnums: vandalism by the Viburnum leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta viburni - Make it stand out Yikes! Shredded leaves are the hallmark of feeding by viburnum leaf beetle larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/650e70ad-31e4-46f0-95b6-090feeaf103b/vlbadults+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - Vanishing viburnums: vandalism by the Viburnum leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta viburni - Make it stand out In June adult viburnum leaf beetles will emerge from the soil and move to leaves to mate, feed, and lay eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4582818c-96dd-44d3-95af-a20a8e77ca31/eggnestsvlb+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Vanishing viburnums: vandalism by the Viburnum leaf beetle, Pyrrhalta viburni - Make it stand out Viburnum branches bear the scars of egg nests made by viburnum leaf beetles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/5/6/when-ants-move-in-odorous-house-ants-tapinoma-sessile monthly 0.5 2024-05-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/429d7d38-0f5d-41f7-a5fc-f2d081a757c2/odorants1+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - When ants move in: Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile - Make it stand out Odorous house ants regularly tend aphids and gather sugar-rich honeydew produced by the aphids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/85f7c948-6a10-44f0-9793-2cca6cbf034a/antsmany+copy3.3x3.3.jpg Current Issue - When ants move in: Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile - Make it stand out A drop of syrup on a countertop can attract a large crowd of ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9ca87232-d676-44a5-8f6d-a6fa82278555/antbait6+copy4.4x5.7.jpg Current Issue - When ants move in: Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile - Make it stand out This highly attractive poison bait will bring a swift end to home-invading odorous house ants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/4/29/from-the-mailbag-fig-eating-kudzu-bugs-come-to-college-megacopta-cribraria monthly 0.5 2024-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9bb50c72-8a26-424c-ad7c-bafd9c733650/kudzubugsSamBahr+copy16x11.png Current Issue - From the mailbag: Fig-eating Kudzu bugs come to college, Megacopta cribraria - Make it stand out A small cluster of kudzu bugs feed on a branch near the base of a developing ‘Sicilian Dark’ figs. Image credit: Sam Bahr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/75071b5f-b340-4eb6-871f-2ff1923e121b/DSC_0499+copy5.6x5.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: Fig-eating Kudzu bugs come to college, Megacopta cribraria - Make it stand out Highly invasive kudzu can engulf native vegetation and wreak havoc on ecosystems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3e08a561-12ab-4ef4-bbae-e942d087d2ec/kudzunymph1+copy5.5x5.2.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: Fig-eating Kudzu bugs come to college, Megacopta cribraria - Make it stand out Nymphs of kudzu bugs are almost as hairy as the vines of kudzu on which they feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1405ef0f-cf54-472a-8fad-36afd6831550/kudzuadult+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag: Fig-eating Kudzu bugs come to college, Megacopta cribraria - Make it stand out Kudzu bugs are kind of cute. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/4/22/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-27-2024 monthly 0.5 2024-04-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d4d60c9e-5c1f-4680-9801-e2f235f06e21/mddayfun+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - COME ONE, COME ALL TO EXPLORE THE INSECT PETTING ZOO: MARYLAND DAY, SATURDAY APRIL 27, 2024 - Make it stand out Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e3b3b986-169e-4aed-aa4b-d76fb23ebdd8/adultlanternflyMikeRaupp+copy5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - COME ONE, COME ALL TO EXPLORE THE INSECT PETTING ZOO: MARYLAND DAY, SATURDAY APRIL 27, 2024 - Make it stand out The Spotted lanternfly is a beautiful insect, but a devastating plant pest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8af0faa4-b40b-4d42-aac9-33d9ed0f49d3/DSC_6837+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - COME ONE, COME ALL TO EXPLORE THE INSECT PETTING ZOO: MARYLAND DAY, SATURDAY APRIL 27, 2024 - Make it stand out The ferocious looking whip scorpion does not live up to its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0c91e284-8590-4617-8080-189673d8d6fa/teneraladultmjr+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - COME ONE, COME ALL TO EXPLORE THE INSECT PETTING ZOO: MARYLAND DAY, SATURDAY APRIL 27, 2024 - Make it stand out Learn about the epic dual appearance of Brood XIII and Brood XIX periodical cicadas. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/4/15/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-be-on-the-lookout-for-one-slowly-moving-invasive-pest-euonymus-leaf-notcher-pryeria-sinica monthly 0.5 2024-04-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3fcfae75-de6c-4ac2-866d-0dea3fb51a8c/Jeremy+S+copy.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Be on the lookout for one slowly moving invasive pest: Euonymus leaf notcher, Pryeria sinica - Make it stand out Yikes! Euonymus leaf notching caterpillars are on the loose. Credit: Jeremy S. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1aef91f3-c452-4bb4-864a-ced6368ba9a4/enot2sm+copy1640.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Be on the lookout for one slowly moving invasive pest: Euonymus leaf notcher, Pryeria sinica - Make it stand out During March and April, hordes of caterpillars strip leaves and create frass fouled foliage (repeat three times fast). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/29e8a76a-9185-45c2-b401-cb876f46b997/leafnotchadulckrause1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Be on the lookout for one slowly moving invasive pest: Euonymus leaf notcher, Pryeria sinica - Make it stand out Adult euonymus leaf-notcher moths fly in autumn and mimic wasps. This one was found less than 10 miles from the Pennsylvania boarder in Hampstead, Maryland. Credit: Charles Krause https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/4/8/natures-other-epic-event-this-spring-periodical-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2024-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/65ac8fa1-58b2-4bee-aee5-f15edeaf6c84/CicadaHoles_PMShrewsbury.jpg Current Issue - Nature’s other epic event this spring: Periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out When you see dime-sized holes like these beneath a tree over the next few weeks, you’ve found a place where periodical cicadas will soon emerge. Image: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/72be80ea-5b6a-4bd2-b902-3cf354b52ab1/mudturretmjr.jpg Current Issue - Nature’s other epic event this spring: Periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Under some soil conditions, cicadas build mud turrets over their exit holes before emerging from their subterranean nurseries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d269cc1d-c46b-459e-8e7d-2c3aa527a138/emergence2020.jpg Current Issue - Nature’s other epic event this spring: Periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Brood X cicadas appearing one year early in the spring of 2020 provide clues as to when cicadas will appear in 2024 in Maryland and Virginia. The first cicada to emerge was seen on April 19 and the last on June 14. If 2024 is anything like 2020, outliers will appear in April, but the great cicada tsunami hits the last two weeks of May. By Memorial Day weekend the cicadapalooza will be rocking the treetops in 18 states around the country. Graph: Michael J. Raupp, PhD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/3/23/why-are-males-first-to-emerge-for-mason-bees-osmia-spp monthly 0.5 2024-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b3badd59-8c37-4ed4-8fec-2e5cf53be832/hornface+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Why are males first to emerge for mason bees? Osmia spp. - Make it stand out A newly minted horn-faced mason bee prepares to take her first flight. Golden hairs called scopa line her abdomen. These will be festooned with pollen when she returns to her gallery to make pollen cakes for her young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f4f7b0aa-486e-4550-8bab-0ca9e849e843/masonbeecondo+copy5x4.3.jpg Current Issue - Why are males first to emerge for mason bees? Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/775fe0c2-71ae-4e0b-b0fb-8032b03fae33/hornfacemale2+copy5x5.jpg Current Issue - Why are males first to emerge for mason bees? Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Male mason bees emerge before females each season in a phenomenon known as protandry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3dd7c642-8c44-47cd-aa0e-fcbe210c11ea/masonpollenballs+copy6x4.jpg Current Issue - Why are males first to emerge for mason bees? Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Glorious yellow pollen cakes line each cardboard tube and gallery. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/3/18/wake-up-call-for-boxelder-bugs-boisea-trivittatus monthly 0.5 2024-03-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/89a86fde-f980-4d99-b4fa-1b7318884fcb/boxeldermargi2+copy1500+copy.jpg Current Issue - Wake-up call for boxelder bugs: Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out Warm weather puts boxelder bugs on the move. You may see one or buckets of boxelder bugs outside your home in coming weeks. Image credit: Margi Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/659d2631-8fcf-443e-8f2e-9ebe14a3bc23/boxelderpoop3a+copy5x4.5.jpg Current Issue - Wake-up call for boxelder bugs: Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out When not feeding on seeds, boxelder bugs will dine on bird poop. Yum! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/177a453c-1180-4116-b73b-725fa6b1567c/boxeldereggs2+copy3x3.jpg Current Issue - Wake-up call for boxelder bugs: Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out Female boxelder bugs deposit eggs in clusters. Tiny nymphs will hatch and move to the ground to consume seeds and other plant tissues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d18cc1f2-4aab-4ba3-ab16-b1b4c3233f27/boxeldernymph+copy5x4.jpg Current Issue - Wake-up call for boxelder bugs: Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out Boxelder bug nymphs are wingless nymphs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/3/18/spring-arrives-and-with-it-delightful-plasterer-bees-colletes-spp monthly 0.5 2024-03-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/afcfa6b6-6166-40e0-ad6c-4d9a0c6b761f/1plastererclose1764.jpg Current Issue - Spring arrives and with it, delightful Plasterer bees: Colletes spp. - Make it stand out From the safety of its burrow, a plasterer bee takes a peek at a bug geek with a camera. How cute is that? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d3e726b1-02aa-437b-be9b-aebbdf014d98/marlene+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - Spring arrives and with it, delightful Plasterer bees: Colletes spp. - Make it stand out Soil conditions in this lawn support nesting sites for thousands of plasterer bees. Credit: Marlene Stamm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8cdc1f05-6707-45e0-8b67-956b25602fe5/plastererlawn+copy6.5x6.5.jpg Current Issue - Spring arrives and with it, delightful Plasterer bees: Colletes spp. - Make it stand out Thin grass, a sunny hillside, and sandy soil provide nice conditions for plasterer bees in my backyard. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/3/11/reveille-for-bmsb-wake-up-call-for-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-bmsb-halyomorpha-halys monthly 0.5 2024-03-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5b9f8a7b-ba83-4795-912a-85993a625876/coffcupBMSB+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Reveille for BMSB: Wake-up call for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys - Make it stand out One morning I discovered a stink bug waiting on my travel mug for some morning joe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/58ed513b-2bea-4ab9-96e0-e65f22b2d845/stinkassault+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Reveille for BMSB: Wake-up call for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys - Make it stand out In autumn stink bugs seek shelter in attics, beneath siding, and behind shutters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/56624177-fb73-45b8-9f3f-ae55357c24cd/bmsbsmall3+copy1394.jpg Current Issue - Reveille for BMSB: Wake-up call for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), Halyomorpha halys - Make it stand out Window sills collect stink bugs on warm days in late winter and spring as they attempt to exit homes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/3/4/beautiful-butterflies-pumping-water-daggerwings-marpesia-spp-and-a-pierid-butterfly-cepora-spp monthly 0.5 2024-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8a97ebb6-7a7e-481a-812a-4533be92605b/Cepura+iudith2+copy1188.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful butterflies pumping water: Daggerwings, Marpesia spp., and a pierid butterfly, Cepora spp. - Make it stand out A beautiful Cepora butterfly rests on a stone along a riverbank where other pierids gather to gain nutrients from alluvial soils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9e4cb31c-4810-4717-b71a-7219819cb6bd/marpesiabeach2+copy620.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful butterflies pumping water: Daggerwings, Marpesia spp., and a pierid butterfly, Cepora spp. - Make it stand out Marpesia are famous for their glorious colors and wing patterns. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/2/26/the-bornean-caterpillar-hunter-potter-wasp-delta-pyriforme monthly 0.5 2024-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9998f239-97bf-479b-9e72-1aaa08b73809/wwaspwithmud+copy2335.jpg Current Issue - The Bornean caterpillar hunter: Potter wasp, Delta pyriforme - Make it stand out Cradling a fresh ball of mud, this pretty female potter wasp gets ready to put finishing touches on clay pots provisioned with caterpillars for her developing youngsters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/80a1ceb8-d66b-4730-b2e3-a8bd7171470d/potterwasplarva+copy5x6.jpg Current Issue - The Bornean caterpillar hunter: Potter wasp, Delta pyriforme - Make it stand out Green and brown caterpillars and a legless wasp larva filled the pot of a potter wasp discovered in my garden in Columbia, Maryland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8f2b8847-87e0-4a0a-83b6-9bbfaaef01ee/pot1s+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - The Bornean caterpillar hunter: Potter wasp, Delta pyriforme - Make it stand out What wonders lie within this diminutive piece of earthenware adorning a rock wall in my garden? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/81a6f248-5708-40e2-938d-3fc75229342b/eumen+copy4x4.jpg Current Issue - The Bornean caterpillar hunter: Potter wasp, Delta pyriforme - Make it stand out Potter wasps eat nectar and pollen when not throwing pots. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/2/19/picking-up-good-vibrations-from-big-bornean-beetles-flat-faced-lamiinae-and-tooth-necked-prioninae-longhorn-beetles monthly 0.5 2024-08-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d6ed3ae1-8f89-45a7-a042-edf485df8b7a/Batocera+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Picking up good vibrations from big Bornean beetles: flat-faced (Lamiinae) and tooth-necked (Prioninae) longhorn beetles - Make it stand out One look at this beautiful Batocera beetle makes it easy to understand why they are called longhorn beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2d32931d-f0ff-4204-a245-712ec14bf38d/Prionis+copy6x5_1800.jpg Current Issue - Picking up good vibrations from big Bornean beetles: flat-faced (Lamiinae) and tooth-necked (Prioninae) longhorn beetles - Make it stand out Someone left the light on in the bathroom and someone else had a big surprise when they walked into the bathroom the next morning. Longhorn beetles are really big in Borneo. Credit: P. M. Shrewsbury, UMD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/2/12/destinations-lizard-island-australia-and-mulu-national-park-borneo-to-learn-about-cooperation-a-lesson-delivered-by-green-tree-ants-oecophylla-smaragdina monthly 0.5 2024-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a1c763ba-3087-44d0-b40e-bbf34035ac51/greenantalert2018_adj.jpg Current Issue - Destinations: Lizard Island, Australia and Mulu National Park, Borneo to learn about cooperation - a lesson delivered by Green tree ants, Oecophylla smaragdina - Make it stand out With sharp jaws ready, workers prepare to defend the colony from nosy bug geeks. Image: P. M. Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6e07dc01-6fde-49d3-b015-9deba0c5882f/workerstalk++copy2345.jpg Current Issue - Destinations: Lizard Island, Australia and Mulu National Park, Borneo to learn about cooperation - a lesson delivered by Green tree ants, Oecophylla smaragdina - Make it stand out A pair of workers exchange some information and maybe some food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/20f4c2e5-144f-42bc-a844-bd3d77625ea7/greentreeantnest2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destinations: Lizard Island, Australia and Mulu National Park, Borneo to learn about cooperation - a lesson delivered by Green tree ants, Oecophylla smaragdina - Make it stand out A single colony of green tree ants may consist of several smaller nests distributed in several trees. P. M. Shrewsbury, UMD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/2/5/gi-ant-malaysian-giant-forest-ants-in-borneo-dinomyrmex-gigas monthly 0.5 2024-02-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ebe92b39-2915-4fc2-b011-0408625bb588/giantantnight+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Gi-ant! Malaysian Giant Forest Ants in Borneo, Dinomyrmex gigas - Make it stand out Night time is the right time to observe and enjoy Malaysian giant forest ants in Borneo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ff8dff02-ac85-4b22-a121-04e38ec07004/giantvsodrous+copy2600.jpg Current Issue - Gi-ant! Malaysian Giant Forest Ants in Borneo, Dinomyrmex gigas - Make it stand out A giant forest ant from Borneo ogles its puny North American cousin, the odorous house ant. Size differences are accurate and, yes, this image is photo-shopped. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/1/29/sorry-dc-and-baltimore-no-periodical-cicadas-for-you-this-year-unless-you-take-a-road-trip-brood-xiii-13-and-brood-xix-19-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2024-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cf4cba73-ed6d-4f61-b287-07398ab53cb7/1photo2+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year, unless you take a road trip: Brood XIII (13) and Brood XIX (19), Magicicada spp - Make it stand out Holes about the size of dimes beneath trees appearing in March and April foretell the emergence of periodical cicadas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c0080744-f4cb-4093-8bf2-355db2c33d0e/5mapcicada+copy8x6.jpg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year, unless you take a road trip: Brood XIII (13) and Brood XIX (19), Magicicada spp - Make it stand out Map of current known distributions of periodical cicada broods in the Mid-Atlantic. Source: https://www.cicadas.info/?page_id=96 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/93d36537-5743-4a34-9567-f286d738c8b9/handfullnymphsmjr+copy5.3x4.4.jpg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year, unless you take a road trip: Brood XIII (13) and Brood XIX (19), Magicicada spp - Make it stand out Billions of cicada nymphs from Broods 19 and 13 will emerge in more than 15 states in the US this spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2d709378-cfc7-47a4-8c29-1c4394f90976/3tymbalsigned+copy5x4.jpg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year, unless you take a road trip: Brood XIII (13) and Brood XIX (19), Magicicada spp - Make it stand out Male cicadas produce their otherworldly sounds by vibrating a tymbal organ on their abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/358a1a80-30c1-4d5f-9a56-92b85e773ca3/4cicadaovipositormjr+copy5x3.6.jpg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year, unless you take a road trip: Brood XIII (13) and Brood XIX (19), Magicicada spp - Make it stand out Female cicadas use a sharp, tubelike appendage called an ovipositor to slice small branches into which they deposit a cluster of eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/1/21/rainforest-raiders-fierce-leptogenys-ants monthly 0.5 2024-01-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6ed3f762-dacb-45ae-98b3-d7fbbfb0712c/leptogenys+copy1600.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest raiders: Fierce Leptogenys ants - Make it stand out On the rainforest floor, a column of Leptogenys workers like this one transport food to the colony and help relocate the colony from one hunting zone to another. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7d952179-d1f6-4def-8133-24696716f884/leptogenyscoop+copy940.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest raiders: Fierce Leptogenys ants - Make it stand out Cooperation is the name of the game when sister Leptogenys capture prey like this moth and move it back to the nest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/1/15/encounters-with-bornean-kelulut-stingless-bees-meliponini monthly 0.5 2024-02-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8236c886-faba-49b8-8c50-d504a8f0093c/stinglessbeeborneo1+copy2191.jpg Current Issue - Encounters with Bornean kelulut: stingless bees, Meliponini - Make it stand out Pollen baskets loaded? Check. One last sip of nectar? Check. Passion flower pollinated? Check. Time to return to the hive to feed the sisters. The passion flower says thanks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d32afbd3-cdf5-4379-8e0b-a2ccdfa2a57b/stinglessbeeentry+copy1829.jpg Current Issue - Encounters with Bornean kelulut: stingless bees, Meliponini - Make it stand out Cracks in masonry walls often provide a suitable nest site for stingless bees. The horn-shaped entrance made of propolis (wax and other substances) narrows the entry way to the hive, making entry from intruders more difficult. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/73f8b687-8b85-4d4b-905c-05c20c62f23f/stinglessbeesBorneo2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Encounters with Bornean kelulut: stingless bees, Meliponini - Make it stand out Almost home, a stingless bee with pollen baskets fully loaded is on final approach to an ancient tree where her nestmates guard the horn-shaped entryway to the hive. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/1/8/lanternflies-vandals-in-vineyards-beauties-in-borneo monthly 0.5 2024-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3153be1b-dc4c-4e51-8905-c72026117a23/Pyrops+intricatusbotw+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies: vandals in vineyards, beauties in Borneo - Make it stand out Does the bulb at the tip of Pyrops intricatus’ headgear really produce light? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2024/1/1/recyclers-of-the-rainforest-bornean-myriapods-millipedes-diplopoda-and-their-nemesis-giant-centipedes-chilipoda monthly 0.5 2024-01-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f16681a8-187e-4ea7-afb7-83953896681f/redmillipedes+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of the rainforest: Bornean myriapods, millipedes (Diplopoda), and their nemesis, giant centipedes (Chilipoda) - Make it stand out Rainforest romance ensues when randy red millipedes (Trachelomegalus modestior) of Borneo get face-to-face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1a775d23-f24a-4c81-9c93-38da152da542/noodlemillipedes+copy1600.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of the rainforest: Bornean myriapods, millipedes (Diplopoda), and their nemesis, giant centipedes (Chilipoda) - Make it stand out Clusters of strange “noodle” millipedes (Pseudodesmus sp.) frequent decaying logs in the Bornean rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/43289ceb-29b5-4090-a75a-aee21a0b118b/tractormillipede+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of the rainforest: Bornean myriapods, millipedes (Diplopoda), and their nemesis, giant centipedes (Chilipoda) - Make it stand out Guess why these rainforest recyclers in the genus Stenoniodes are called tractor millipedes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/12a8330c-2ee1-4aaf-bc3a-dc05473b6e2a/giantpillmillipede+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of the rainforest: Bornean myriapods, millipedes (Diplopoda), and their nemesis, giant centipedes (Chilipoda) - Make it stand out When under attack by a predator, giant pill millipedes (Sphaerotheriida) go armadillo and curl into a defensive ball to foil attacks by would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a0e13a15-e016-40af-833a-68828b47bd51/poisonclaw2+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers of the rainforest: Bornean myriapods, millipedes (Diplopoda), and their nemesis, giant centipedes (Chilipoda) - Make it stand out Highly modified legs called toxicognaths deliver lethal venom to victims of predacious centipedes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/12/18/deck-the-halls-with-boughs-of-holly-adorned-with-cheery-red-and-green-berries-green-is-good-for-holly-berry-midge-asphondylia-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2023-12-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9e83b500-0082-4dd5-b8ff-1725a15e4b17/hollyberrys+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly adorned with cheery red and green berries! Green is good for holly berry midge, Asphondylia ilicicola - Make it stand out What’s up with the green berries on the holly tree? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a128d958-d0aa-4a73-ba8c-466a508dc1d9/hollyberrylarv3+copy1766.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly adorned with cheery red and green berries! Green is good for holly berry midge, Asphondylia ilicicola - Make it stand out This tiny fly larva and an associated fungus have the power to turn a holly berry from red to green, thereby enhancing chances of its own survival. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/29c43c65-086a-4bb0-8a07-398b778cb472/hollyberry_midge_adult_l+copy10xLighten.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly adorned with cheery red and green berries! Green is good for holly berry midge, Asphondylia ilicicola - Make it stand out Adult holly berry midges are small mosquito-like flies. After the midge emerges, you may sometimes find its distinctive calling card - a papery pupal case protruding from the holly berry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/18ff7d22-690f-4617-9b89-35e808e63a58/xmas2018mantis.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly adorned with cheery red and green berries! Green is good for holly berry midge, Asphondylia ilicicola - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/12/10/deck-the-halls-with-boughs-of-holly-and-maybe-some-leaves-with-the-native-holly-leaf-miner-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2023-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/49e31ed4-48e4-4403-aade-9c108350b94a/hollylmgalleries+copy2450.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly - and maybe some leaves with the native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola - Make it stand out Oh no, these less-than-pretty snakelike galleries are the handiwork of the native holly leafminer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9bbf15af-5cfb-49ef-a46d-92ce7656d7a5/adulthollyleafminers+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly - and maybe some leaves with the native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola - Make it stand out Adult holly leaf miners resemble small houseflies. The male is on the left and the female is on the right, a cute couple. Credit: John Davidson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68d3e322-99c1-4bd3-b3de-dbeef92da6a5/hollyberrypunctures+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly - and maybe some leaves with the native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola - Make it stand out Feeding punctures on the leaf surface made by adult flies may cause leaves to curl. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/12/4/a-mast-year-brings-a-bountiful-harvest-to-acorn-weevils-curculio-glandium monthly 0.5 2023-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/db506a9e-be66-440f-abd7-a52ec17b1f66/adult2+copy1519.jpg Current Issue - A mast year brings a bountiful harvest to acorn weevils, Curculio glandium - Make it stand out The acorns weevil’s proboscis is remarkable by any standard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b345f955-f54a-4ee8-80d5-7de90fc4d041/acornweevsteph+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - A mast year brings a bountiful harvest to acorn weevils, Curculio glandium - Make it stand out Legless weevil larvae emerge from circular holes in acorns and enter the soil in advance of winter. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/11/26/death-of-a-lanternfly-part-3-when-a-chinese-mantis-has-an-old-friend-for-dinner-chinese-praying-mantis-tenodera-sinensis monthly 0.5 2023-11-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d45f3ba1-c181-4445-8bcb-9374caa1cc82/mantiswith2slf+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a Lanternfly, Part 3: When a Chinese mantis has an old friend for dinner – Chinese praying mantis, Tenodera sinensis - Make it stand out Mantie, Slayer of Lanternflies, says “make mine a double” when it comes to eating spotted lanternflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1f23840c-e5bc-4b95-986e-31994c1ff4bc/mantis+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Death of a Lanternfly, Part 3: When a Chinese mantis has an old friend for dinner – Chinese praying mantis, Tenodera sinensis - Make it stand out Stout spines on the forelegs enable the mantis to snare and hold its prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/11/20/death-of-a-lanternfly-part-2-lanternfly-on-the-thanksgiving-menu-for-a-gal-called-carolina-carolina-mantis-stagmomantis-carolina monthly 0.5 2023-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cba23630-ff6c-467f-b13d-05198153b84b/carolinamantisslf2+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a lanternfly, Part 2: Lanternfly on the Thanksgiving menu for a gal called Carolina – Carolina mantis, Stagmomantis carolina - Make it stand out A gorgeous Carolina mantis named Dot enjoys an early Thanksgiving feast of spotted lanternfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c7e0cc3f-b454-4dac-a91a-875ea70db41f/carolina2+copy1766.jpg Current Issue - Death of a lanternfly, Part 2: Lanternfly on the Thanksgiving menu for a gal called Carolina – Carolina mantis, Stagmomantis carolina - Make it stand out After emerging from an egg case called an ootheca, a tiny Carolina mantis takes its first glimpse of a world full of wonderful morsels to eat. Hopefully, many of these meals will be spotted lanternflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/11/13/death-of-a-lanternfly-what-a-frosty-night-means-to-spotted-lanternfly-lycorma-deliculata monthly 0.5 2023-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bc9ee106-1ac8-4ebd-b127-bfb922b4aebe/slfdeadontrunk+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a lanternfly, Part 1: What a frosty night means to spotted lanternfly, Lycorma deliculata - Make it stand out Frozen to death on a tree trunk with its beak still embedded in bark, a rapid drop in temperature caught this spotted lanternfly by surprise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bd829ddf-1faf-4560-ba0f-4f75f45bbc15/deadonground+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a lanternfly, Part 1: What a frosty night means to spotted lanternfly, Lycorma deliculata - Make it stand out At the base of a tree of heaven, a season of sucking sap and laying eggs ended when local temperatures dropped into below freezing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fee0c469-0984-48e9-8e02-3991f641faf7/eggmass+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Death of a lanternfly, Part 1: What a frosty night means to spotted lanternfly, Lycorma deliculata - Make it stand out While temperatures in the 20-degree Fahrenheit range are lethal to adult lanternflies, much colder winter temperatures must occur before overwintering eggs will die. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/11/2/bumble-bee-carpenter-bee-redux-bombus-spp-and-xylocopa-spp monthly 0.5 2023-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b8128ea6-1391-44e9-bb07-f7acc3cc1ef5/carpmalefemale+copy1495.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, redux: Bombus spp. and Xylocopa spp. - Make it stand out On a dewy morning, male (left) and female (right) carpenter bees await a warm-up from the brilliant autumn sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/968eaec8-1ce3-4bea-b5ac-6e9bf320a1e6/broodtunnels+copy5x3.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, redux: Bombus spp. and Xylocopa spp. - Make it stand out You may have seen the carpenter bee’s hole on the outside of your siding - here’s a look at the brood galleries on the inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ec07609a-1bdc-4edf-b002-649f2501958d/caprbeeabdo+copy3.5x3.5.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, redux: Bombus spp. and Xylocopa spp. - Make it stand out Note the shiny hairless abdomen of the carpenter bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a94de002-0e98-4d9e-a9a5-1d9431dade32/Bumbleabdomen+copy3.5x3.5.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, redux: Bombus spp. and Xylocopa spp. - Make it stand out A hairy abdomen is a hallmark of the bumble bee. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/10/30/bugs-in-orange-and-black-part-3-trick-or-treat-two-spotted-stink-bug-perillus-bioculatus-has-a-lethal-trick-that-turns-colorado-potato-beetle-leptinotarsa-decemlineata-into-a-tasty-treat monthly 0.5 2023-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c725a6a2-80c2-4f9a-b9b4-27aa8c375011/2spottedadult3+copy2062coolfilter.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black, Part 3 – Trick or treat? Two-spotted stink bug, Perillus bioculatus, has a lethal trick that turns Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, into a tasty treat - Make it stand out The Colorado potato beetle larva dangling from the beak of a tricky two-spotted stink bug becomes a nutritious autumn treat for this native predatory bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/da0cd36b-1e98-48a7-9f32-a8bebe826342/colpotlarv2+copy692.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black, Part 3 – Trick or treat? Two-spotted stink bug, Perillus bioculatus, has a lethal trick that turns Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, into a tasty treat - Make it stand out Orange and black Colorado potato beetle larvae play nasty tricks on leaves of potatoes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/10/22/bugs-in-orange-and-black-part-ii-a-spooky-southern-predator-heads-north-in-a-warming-world-florida-predatory-stink-bug-euthyrhynchus-floridanus monthly 0.5 2023-10-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/24ad2c64-e722-4ab3-93a8-b357a4fbf26f/floridapredstinkad+copy1145.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: A spooky southern predator heads north in a warming world – Florida predatory stink bug, Euthyrhynchus floridanus - Make it stand out Bedecked in their finest colors of orange and black, Florida predatory stink bugs are now more common in the DMV and other northern states as our world warms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/34a645f2-08b0-49f4-b980-9f75df639122/craigr+FPSB+nymphs+on+meter+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: A spooky southern predator heads north in a warming world – Florida predatory stink bug, Euthyrhynchus floridanus - Make it stand out Are utility companies employing Florida predatory stink bugs to do jobs once performed by humans? Image: Craig J. Regelbrugge https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9f5deeb4-b1a0-47cd-86d0-6a33f8f66393/floridastinkbug+Zastrow+copy1444.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: A spooky southern predator heads north in a warming world – Florida predatory stink bug, Euthyrhynchus floridanus - Make it stand out Color variations in Florida predatory stink bugs range from greenish to black backgrounds bearing orange to reddish spots. Image: Sarah Zastrow https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/10/15/bugs-in-orange-and-black-1-nightmare-for-collards-when-harlequin-bugs-arrive-murgantia-histrionica monthly 0.5 2023-10-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7587cc91-9d96-4b06-9b69-04288ca81cf3/harleq1+copy2500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 1: Nightmare for collards when harlequin bugs arrive - Murgantia histrionica - Make it stand out Orange and black harlequin bugs are a nightmare for cole crops. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9a367d1d-02f6-413c-9523-9911deb8ca41/harleqeggs+copy1100.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 1: Nightmare for collards when harlequin bugs arrive - Murgantia histrionica - Make it stand out Distinctive barrel shaped eggs colored black and white are an excellent clue that harlequin bugs are about. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6bef86c9-1f67-47c9-ac51-c9002784df65/harliquindamage+copy1724.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 1: Nightmare for collards when harlequin bugs arrive - Murgantia histrionica - Make it stand out Feeding by wingless harlequin bug nymphs severely damages vegetables like cabbage, kale, broccoli, and other members of the mustard family. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/23/magic-of-the-recycle-bin-and-an-edamame-surprise-soldier-flies-stratiomyidae monthly 0.5 2023-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2f2c8fcf-f324-4687-8459-840fc87eb98b/blacksoldierfly+copy1726.jpg Current Issue - Magic of the recycle bin and an edamame surprise: Soldier flies, Stratiomyidae - Make it stand out Black soldier flies have a wasp-like appearance but pose no threat to humans or pets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/59edb5b5-455b-4f3f-b4a0-9b215dd2b7d0/fishingspider+copy1985.jpg Current Issue - Magic of the recycle bin and an edamame surprise: Soldier flies, Stratiomyidae - Make it stand out Lurking in a corner of the recycle bin, a fishing spider awaits its next victim. Will it be a maggot, fly, or another member of the food web within the compost bin? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/238aab77-cd7b-4248-b209-a40f5b37e4f2/soldierlarva1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Magic of the recycle bin and an edamame surprise: Soldier flies, Stratiomyidae - Make it stand out What a surprise, a soldier fly larva in my edamame. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/23/danger-in-the-wildflowers-for-bees-ambush-bugs-phymata-spp monthly 0.5 2023-10-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ff0e5c23-ab31-41a9-a699-60f2c1a6b9ed/ambushwhite+copy1885.jpg Current Issue - Danger in the wildflowers for bees: Ambush bugs, Phymata spp. - Make it stand out Powerful raptorial forelegs enable ambush bugs to snare prey several times larger than themselves. Mottled shades of white and brown allow the hunter to blend with the blossom on which it hides. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/853e0d71-cf7d-46d4-95ab-c3297015d838/ambushbeak+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Danger in the wildflowers for bees: Ambush bugs, Phymata spp. - Make it stand out A perfidious kiss of the ambush bug paralyzes a paper wasp and seals its fate. Liquified tissues of the wasp will be drawn into the digestive tract of the ambush bug through its beak. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/23/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-rose-of-sharon-on-the-menu-for-the-hibiscus-scentless-plant-bug-niesthrea-louisianica monthly 0.5 2023-09-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fb66c63b-98d3-42e9-9963-bfa95863ab45/adultscentlessplantbug+copy770.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Rose of Sharon on the menu for the hibiscus scentless plant bug, Niesthrea louisianica - Make it stand out An adult hibiscus scentless plant bug hiding beneath a flower bud glams for the paparazzi. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/14727777-a16d-4a55-b36c-e149387e2573/soniascentlesspb+copy480.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Rose of Sharon on the menu for the hibiscus scentless plant bug, Niesthrea louisianica - Make it stand out Harlequin colors of orange, black, and white are definitely “in” this pre-Halloween season. Just ask nymphs of pretty hibiscus scentless plant bugs as they the suck fluids from buds of Rose of Sharon. Image credit: Sonia Smith https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d0dd30bb-b86d-4be6-b50e-71e7403e10d7/bumblebee+copy1066.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag – Rose of Sharon on the menu for the hibiscus scentless plant bug, Niesthrea louisianica - Make it stand out Rose of Sharon is a favored pollen source for many pollinators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/18/got-lanternflies-tired-of-squishing-get-a-spider-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-argiope-aurantia monthly 0.5 2024-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e96fd5e7-57d4-4f5c-96de-84dca07620b1/blackandyellowinweb+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Got lanternflies? Tired of squishing? Get a spider! Black and Yellow Garden Spider, Argiope aurantia - Make it stand out My lovely black and yellow garden spider spends most of her day resting on the stabilimentum at the center of her enormous web. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fd42af71-4346-40dc-b099-0e1eb6cbc417/blackyelloweggsac+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Got lanternflies? Tired of squishing? Get a spider! Black and Yellow Garden Spider, Argiope aurantia - Make it stand out The egg sac of the black and yellow garden spider contains hundreds of eggs and is the size of a large marble. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/4/high-fiber-diets-for-baldfaced-hornets-nah-construction-materials-for-enlarging-nests-baldfaced-hornets-dolichovespula-maculata monthly 0.5 2023-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8b7af661-2693-43f8-9424-4d2686039792/baldfacedgnaw+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - High fiber diets for baldfaced hornets? Nah, construction materials for enlarging nests: Baldfaced hornets, Dolichovespula maculata - Make it stand out Baldfaced hornets find wood fibers of T-111 siding to be the perfect raw material for making paper to build their nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/470916aa-3a37-4578-8e32-dc63ff9656fa/shannonbignest+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - High fiber diets for baldfaced hornets? Nah, construction materials for enlarging nests: Baldfaced hornets, Dolichovespula maculata - Make it stand out Nests can be the size of beach balls and contain hundreds of hornets. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/9/4/dragonfly-meets-spider-spider-eats-dragonfly-seaside-dragonlet-erythrodiplax-berenice-and-daddy-long-legs-pholcus-spp monthly 0.5 2023-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/795d9d61-2b1f-4ed0-9128-505a680852f8/dragonletperch+copy1409.jpg Current Issue - Dragonfly meets spider, spider eats dragonfly: Seaside Dragonlet, Erythrodiplax Berenice, and daddy-long-legs, Pholcus spp. - Make it stand out Seaside Dragonlets spend much of their time perching on vegetation and are unique in their ability to breed in salty pools of water near the ocean. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fa805ce6-26de-4d86-a103-0bd9d1f832be/pholcidspider+copy711.jpg Current Issue - Dragonfly meets spider, spider eats dragonfly: Seaside Dragonlet, Erythrodiplax Berenice, and daddy-long-legs, Pholcus spp. - Make it stand out A large pholcid spider takes advantage of the illuminated porch of a bayside home to construct its deadly web. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/76cf5418-6c82-4e74-8059-e9ca56d15053/dragonfly2+copy962.jpg Current Issue - Dragonfly meets spider, spider eats dragonfly: Seaside Dragonlet, Erythrodiplax Berenice, and daddy-long-legs, Pholcus spp. - Make it stand out Snared by the web of a pholcid spider, a Seaside Dragonlet faces impending doom courtesy of lethal fangs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/8/28/from-the-mailbag-when-spotted-lanternflies-arrive-do-stinging-insects-follow-eastern-yellowjackets-vespula-maculifrons-and-a-few-other-friends monthly 0.5 2023-08-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c58fd021-1c19-45b8-90df-bebd4508ac5a/easternyellowjacketnest+copy2000B.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag - When spotted lanternflies arrive, do stinging insects follow? Eastern yellowjackets, Vespula maculifrons, and a few other friends - Make it stand out This pretty yellowjacket nest was found beneath a set of steps near a deck outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a7adbfea-f5db-401e-a9ce-cfd9c6f7bc15/IMG-9405+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag - When spotted lanternflies arrive, do stinging insects follow? Eastern yellowjackets, Vespula maculifrons, and a few other friends - Make it stand out In some locations infested with spotted lanternflies, yellowjackets have become huge problems. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/8/21/why-am-i-seeing-more-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2023-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/39aae50a-18ef-4839-98d8-21fa2c8f50a7/slfaug2022+copy1350.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Get ready to spot spotted lanternflies as they aggregate on trees in your landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e04f2563-e4e7-4b2f-9ed9-6b6fcee76640/Fig.1infestedcounties2023.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Fig. 1. This graph summarizes the rapid spread of spotted lanternflies in the DMV and neighboring states over a period of five years. Data summarized by Michael Raupp from New York State IPM Program. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f9aff61d-0f2b-4509-a3ca-f6ba692a76c1/Fig.2slf2019.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Fig. 2. Compare the distribution of spotted lanternflies in the United States in November of 2019 to the following image of their distribution in June of 2023. Data from New York State IPM Program. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0347106e-bcbe-4164-a598-e335502c02fc/Fig.3slfdist2023+copy700x598.jpg Current Issue - Why am I seeing more spotted lanternflies? Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Fig. 3. Compare the distribution of spotted lanternflies in the United States in June of 2023 to the previous image of their distribution in November 2019. Data from New York State IPM Program. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/8/14/light-pollution-imperils-imperial-moths-eacles-imperialis monthly 0.5 2023-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3afc3f8c-b9a0-41d6-8ead-f80660ddc570/DSC_6721+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Light pollution imperils Imperial moths, Eacles Imperialis - Make it stand out Beneath a high intensity security light, resting on the leg of a plastic lawn chair, a beautiful Imperial moth quivers in a morning breeze. Chances of survival in this alien environment? Not good. Image: Paula M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2dff2235-bdc1-496a-9df6-0d4c63671b40/imperialadult+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Light pollution imperils Imperial moths, Eacles Imperialis - Make it stand out On the bark of a maple tree an Imperial moth awaits its mate just as nature intended. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/8/7/from-the-mailbag-large-scary-bees-buzzing-the-backyard-nah-green-june-beetles-cotinus-nitida monthly 0.5 2023-08-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b28e923b-7b96-4282-8cc6-1184e3f2e798/greenjunebeetlechris+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag - large scary bees buzzing the backyard? Nah, Green June Beetles, Cotinus nitida - Make it stand out Caught by the lens of a cell phone as it rested on some bare soil, this image reveals a Green June Beetle that was buzzing above the lawn. Credit: Chris Millward https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/87ee9cde-6cd9-4f08-8fc6-0dd90ae5450c/greenjbadonflower+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag - large scary bees buzzing the backyard? Nah, Green June Beetles, Cotinus nitida - Make it stand out Doesn’t this Green June Beetle look lovely posed on a flowerhead? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/7/31/crazy-snaky-worms-in-your-garden-could-be-jumping-worms-amynthas-spp monthly 0.5 2023-07-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/86bd07d1-8366-4472-833b-2cb2b3b49f7b/jumpingworms2023+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Crazy, snaky worms in your garden? Could be jumping worms, Amynthas spp. - Make it stand out Vigorous snake-like movements and a saddle-like pale white band called the clitellum encircling the body are diagnostic clues to the identity of jumping worms. Credit: Paula M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/857f6edc-950a-40a9-b6b1-e829b3f6b7b6/wormcastings+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Crazy, snaky worms in your garden? Could be jumping worms, Amynthas spp. - Make it stand out Jumping worms produce coffee-ground-like excrement called worm castings. These appear on the surface of the soil and are another indicator of a jumping worm infestation. Paula M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/7/24/hammer-time-in-the-dmv-hammerhead-worms-bipalium-spp monthly 0.5 2023-07-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6697dab7-be38-4224-a534-57bc82e53af4/HammerHeadCloseup11+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Hammer time in the DMV: Hammerhead worms, Bipalium spp. - Make it stand out One look at a hammerhead worm lets you know how it got its name. Image credit: Kevin Ambrose https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/58e5d38c-b606-4741-aeb4-9be0322322cc/TwoWorms-lr+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Hammer time in the DMV: Hammerhead worms, Bipalium spp. - Make it stand out In the damp warmth of a summer morning, hammerhead worms can be found on paved surfaces as they move about the landscape. Image credit: Kevin Ambrose https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/54318cb3-ce85-44cc-98fd-538ac80ecdf8/22inchworm+copy1401.jpg Current Issue - Hammer time in the DMV: Hammerhead worms, Bipalium spp. - Make it stand out At 22 inches in length, this hammerhead worm takes first prize in the “how big can they get?” competition. Image credit: Kevin Ambrose https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/7/17/beautiful-beetles-and-gnarly-elm-leaves-larger-elm-leaf-beetle-monocesta-coryli-and-elm-leaf-beetle-xanthogaleruca-luteola monthly 0.5 2023-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3f349d0e-478a-4d77-9bb4-e820c41d3b94/1largerelb3+copy1211.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Gorgeous larger elm leaf beetles often frequent elms in riparian forests in the eastern United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d50452e2-7f93-4db9-a6f5-dfd6c355208a/2skeletonization+-+Copy+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Elm leaf beetles remove tender leaf tissue leaving behind epidermis and leaf veins. These skeletonized leaves turn brown and crispy in the heat of summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ace089a2-3bc5-4220-80eb-3516810274a7/3elbadult+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Adult elm leaf beetles make ragged holes in leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/eecac289-d99c-4e4b-88df-6adea301aa4c/4elmlarva+copy1506.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Here an elm leaf beetle larva removes leaf tissue. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/43282551-389a-4574-9b78-4590593d7572/5elbeggs+copy1619.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Female elm leaf beetles can lay hundreds of eggs in clusters like these on elm leaves. Notice the small holes where larvae have chewed their way out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cf36a1df-fb68-4a6c-91f9-4dae387f852a/6elbpupaandprepupa+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful beetles and gnarly elm leaves: Larger elm leaf beetle, Monocesta coryli, and elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola - Make it stand out Pupae and prepupae like these can be found on tree bark or in soil beneath elm trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/7/10/tiny-raptors-mantisflies-mantispidae-and-praying-mantises-mantidae monthly 0.5 2023-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/119c7858-a8ab-4043-9c90-b8195d6f57e5/mantisfly2+copy1894.jpg Current Issue - Tiny raptors: Mantisflies, Mantispidae, and Praying mantises, Mantidae - Make it stand out Looks like a praying mantis, hunts like a praying mantis, but is not a praying mantis. Meet the green mantisfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3e57712a-0774-40b0-bc7c-f5f9c8939b78/raptorialleg+copy852.jpg Current Issue - Tiny raptors: Mantisflies, Mantispidae, and Praying mantises, Mantidae - Make it stand out Although less than an inch in length, this tiny mantis is equipped with raptorial forelegs armed with sharp spines on femur and tibia to snare unsuspecting prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/7/3/my-what-ginormous-jaws-you-have-my-dear-elephant-stag-beetle-lucanus-elaphus monthly 0.5 2023-07-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6a896c6f-f758-4082-928b-fe4b35a28b23/1elephantstagmale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - My, what ginormous jaws you have my dear: Elephant stag beetle, Lucanus elaphus - Make it stand out With jaws almost as long as its body, the elephant stag beetle is the largest of its kind in the United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/82d63550-161d-4b1a-be3d-ca3bfd7a6ef0/2reddish-brownstagmale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - My, what ginormous jaws you have my dear: Elephant stag beetle, Lucanus elaphus - Make it stand out Other stag beetles with somewhat less impressive mandibles like this reddish-brown stag beetle also help recycle wood here in the DMV and around the nation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/44da718e-b9a9-4203-aa62-5eebd8aed281/3stagelephantclose+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - My, what ginormous jaws you have my dear: Elephant stag beetle, Lucanus elaphus - Make it stand out Armament such as gnarly teeth and forks help male stag beetles grapple with other males. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/6/26/dr-jekyll-and-mr-hyde-wage-war-on-thistles-thistle-head-weevils-rhinocyllus-conicus monthly 0.5 2023-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5792197b-14b7-4f7f-8ec6-36158e8deed3/1thistleweevil2+copy1478coolLBB.jpg Current Issue - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde wage war on thistles: Thistle head weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus - Make it stand out Amidst defoliated leaves and deposits of beetle frass, a thistle head weevil stares back at a bug geek. Image: Paula M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bed68c7d-30b5-4ddb-8acc-6fb291aea8b0/spinyplumelessthistle+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde wage war on thistles: Thistle head weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus - Make it stand out Spiny plumeless thistles and several other thistles from abroad create major problems for agricultural crops and natural ecosystems throughout North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/242f9c50-3bb0-47e8-8eab-924ac7c86e90/thistleweevildamage+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde wage war on thistles: Thistle head weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus - Make it stand out Flower heads infested with weevil larvae will fail to produce seeds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/362a3d2f-ea4e-431f-954a-2e20c4ece713/longsnoutweevil+copy850.jpg Current Issue - Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde wage war on thistles: Thistle head weevils, Rhinocyllus conicus - Make it stand out Thistle head weevils have a short snout. Hiding on a thistle was a similar weevil with a long snout. Could this weevil be the thistle bud weevil, Larinus planus? Like the thistle head weevil, the thistle bud weevil was imported from Europe to help control thistles in North America. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/6/19/yellow-snake-along-the-trail-spicebush-swallowtail-caterpillar-papilio-troilus monthly 0.5 2023-06-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/da9fb81a-141e-4099-a86d-f5031032946c/1spicebushlastinstar+copy2000+copy.jpg Current Issue - Yellow snake along the trail: Spicebush swallowtail caterpillar, Papilio troilus - Make it stand out Small snake resting on a stem? Nope, spicebush swallowtail caterpillar. Image credit: P. M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c4292ef2-0e6f-4cab-b775-173616932b42/naturalbridge+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Yellow snake along the trail: Spicebush swallowtail caterpillar, Papilio troilus - Make it stand out Visit Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia to experience spectacular scenery and fascinating wildlife. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1088ede9-1c57-4fc7-afef-8a99389558ae/spicebushcat2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Yellow snake along the trail: Spicebush swallowtail caterpillar, Papilio troilus - Make it stand out Large snake-like eyespots on the body might give a hungry bird second thoughts about attacking this caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/69e64a3b-d10d-4b48-9f4c-1115d14dab7b/spicebush4+copy1915.jpg Current Issue - Yellow snake along the trail: Spicebush swallowtail caterpillar, Papilio troilus - Make it stand out With the body of a bird dropping and the head of a serpent, this young caterpillar presents a confusing visage to a would-be predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/adc52f5d-1c51-492b-9327-92ccf504c0fd/spicebush+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Yellow snake along the trail: Spicebush swallowtail caterpillar, Papilio troilus - Make it stand out The beautiful spicebush butterfly is thought to mimic the distasteful pipevine swallowtail. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/6/12/oh-no-engorged-tick-lyme-disease-maybe-not-tick-identification monthly 0.5 2023-06-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9e824930-2dd0-4e02-869e-cf1b43d5bf4f/lonestarnymph2018+copy.jpg Current Issue - Oh no, engorged tick! Lyme disease? Maybe not: Tick Identification - Make it stand out Engorged tick embedded in your skin? Before you toss it away, get it identified. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/57bb6979-b263-4bb7-a208-f0f77a92f0ce/lonestarbite+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Oh no, engorged tick! Lyme disease? Maybe not: Tick Identification - Make it stand out The bite from a lone star tick nymph produced an itchy red rash that lasted more than a week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/599da4d1-7e6b-41d9-b12e-7eb6dd9eee73/tickmorphology2.jpg Current Issue - Oh no, engorged tick! Lyme disease? Maybe not: Tick Identification - Make it stand out Panel B of this diagram shows how to separate blacklegged ticks and their kin, vectors of Lyme disease, from other ticks that do not carry Lyme disease. The upper tick is Ixodes which include blacklegged ticks, and the lower tick could be one of many others that do not transmit Lyme disease, but do transmit other diseases. To see a complete diagram useful in tick identification, please click on this link: https://www.inspq.qc.ca/en/it-tick Credit: Québec National Institute of Public Health. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/6/5/vanquished-vanishing-columbines-columbine-sawfly-pristiphora-rufipes monthly 0.5 2023-06-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f39d45ea-ef9a-4d27-8f17-342c3ea5d2e1/1femaleovip+copy1532.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out Look out columbine! That sawfly is laying eggs in your leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a5531beb-ac16-4e4d-bbd1-82409001ac4c/sitkacolumbine+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out Columbines are among the most glorious perennials found in gardens and landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f07ad503-92b7-4ca1-a96e-1c7b6a7f8e1b/eggslits2+copy1435.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out These slits in the epidermis of a leaf hold eggs deposited by the female columbine sawfly. Eggs will soon hatch and leaf-munching larvae will begin to feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1e852eb5-73b9-43f2-a404-6af7c585d55e/columbinesawflyearly+copy1724.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out Newly hatched columbine sawfly larvae begin their nefarious work of defoliating leaves of columbine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2274ba30-de26-4683-9c9c-1409e3560384/sawflycaterpillar+copy960.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out An easy way to tell many caterpillars, the larvae of moths and butterflies, from sawfly larvae is to count the number of abdominal appendages called prolegs. Caterpillars (upper image) will have five or fewer pairs of prolegs and most sawfly larvae (lower image) will have six or more pairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7f664ca3-7257-4f01-9c6b-d9ee10837252/culumbinesawflypupae+copy1430.jpg Current Issue - Vanquished vanishing columbines: Columbine sawfly, Pristiphora rufipes - Make it stand out After defoliating columbines, sawfly larvae move to the soil and spin brown cocoons in which to pupate. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/5/29/bee-balm-blues-courtesy-of-fourlined-plant-bug-poecilocapsus-lineatus monthly 0.5 2023-05-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/52058b23-39f7-4040-8507-41576f4966d3/10-Afourlinedplantbug+copy1338.jpg Current Issue - Bee Balm Blues Courtesy of Fourlined plant bug, Poecilocapsus lineatus - Make it stand out Can you guess why they are called fourlined plant bugs? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/dd950290-7b9a-4141-bbd3-823cd4874311/foulinedadultanddamage+copy1388.jpg Current Issue - Bee Balm Blues Courtesy of Fourlined plant bug, Poecilocapsus lineatus - Make it stand out Digestive enzymes injected into a leaf by fourlined plant bugs create long lasting necrotic lesions. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/5/22/paper-wasp-dilemma-destroy-or-defend-paper-wasps-polistes-spp monthly 0.5 2023-05-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/69ab0d5b-4739-46b0-99d8-71d8bbbfa311/paperwaspgoldenrod+copy1875.jpg Current Issue - Paper wasp dilemma, destroy or defend? Paper wasps, Polistes spp. - Make it stand out In addition to removing pests from plants, paper wasps provide a second ecosystem service of pollination and often frequent goldenrod in late summer and autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1c854836-a1f2-46b4-84fd-a14095a05a5a/DSC_3469.JPG Current Issue - Paper wasp dilemma, destroy or defend? Paper wasps, Polistes spp. - Make it stand out Paper wasps are fierce predators and turn pests like fall webworm caterpillars into food for developing nest mates. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/5/15/there-will-be-blood-northern-house-mosquito-culex-pipiens-and-friends monthly 0.5 2023-05-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5ddf1d30-e119-4900-8bab-1aa4cdd6a02e/cpipmol20172_underH2O.jpg Current Issue - There will be blood: Northern House Mosquito, Culex pipiens, and friends - Make it stand out Don’t be surprised to be greeted by hungry Northern House mosquitoes in the next few weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1bd1d2d2-da23-4061-b281-d474f2b9e589/DSC_0137+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - There will be blood: Northern House Mosquito, Culex pipiens, and friends - Make it stand out Wheelbarrows and pails full of water? Dump them now! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/69484027-3377-43c2-92c1-3f83002eddec/feed2+copy800.jpg Current Issue - There will be blood: Northern House Mosquito, Culex pipiens, and friends - Make it stand out The Asian Tiger mosquito can make your evenings outdoors miserable. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/5/8/tigers-along-the-potomac-bronzed-tiger-beetle-cicindela-repanda-repanda monthly 0.5 2023-05-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c17a7474-5552-456e-a97b-736e2259fe60/bronzetiger2+copy931filterLBB.jpg Current Issue - Tigers along the Potomac: Bronzed Tiger Beetle, Cicindela repanda repanda - Make it stand out On the banks of the Potomac, beautiful bronzed tiger beetles search for their next meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b96fb231-e767-4b61-997f-a1734947e960/tigerlarv1+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Tigers along the Potomac: Bronzed Tiger Beetle, Cicindela repanda repanda - Make it stand out The strange tiger beetle larva lives in an underground lair and captures unsuspecting prey that stray too near. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/5/1/a-spotted-lanternfly-is-born-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2023-05-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7de4df48-eb1b-46df-8424-38257b95072b/hatchcloseup+copy958.jpg Current Issue - A spotted lanternfly is born - Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Throughout the DMV, wraithlike spotted lanternfly nymphs pop the lid on their egg case and hatch head-first from eggs deposited last autumn by females. They will resume their mischiefs feeding on plants and producing vast amounts of sticky honeydew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/79941239-d73b-41d8-8c03-8f1dc85cd57a/wings1500.jpg Current Issue - A spotted lanternfly is born - Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out The adult spotted lanternfly is a beautiful insect, but nonetheless harmful to many plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/4/24/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-29-2023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/eeaff74f-ba95-43c5-b9e6-b66a191c8617/mddayfun-adj.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 29, 2023 - Make it stand out Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f0409eae-af40-459e-89ab-a2bf8a674e63/giant+lubber1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 29, 2023 - Make it stand out The lovely lubber sports multiple defense techniques. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6db074c4-2eda-48d6-88f1-395a44181340/lanternflyhand1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 29, 2023 - Make it stand out The Spotted lanternfly is a beautiful insect, but a devastating plant pest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/4/17/guardians-of-the-galleries-male-eastern-carpenter-bees-xylocopa-virginica monthly 0.5 2023-04-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1d12d241-a2f3-4f53-977e-a0434101b209/carpmalefemale+copy1603.jpg Current Issue - Guardians of the galleries: Male Eastern Carpenter Bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out On a chilly dewy morning in spring don’t be surprised to see a male carpenter bee (left, with a white spot on its face) and a female carpenter bee (right, no white spot) resting on a flower head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f8fa1e4c-fba6-47d9-94ef-ef905164ca01/DSC_5885+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Guardians of the galleries: Male Eastern Carpenter Bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out On the outside of a piece of wood all you see of the carpenter bee’s handiwork is a perfectly round hole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/93153da1-2474-46bd-9776-1e2ecc691070/broodtunnels+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Guardians of the galleries: Male Eastern Carpenter Bees, Xylocopa virginica - Make it stand out But on the inside, you can see a gallery of brood chambers carved into the wood by the mother bee for her babies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/4/10/danger-afoot-for-ground-nesting-bees-look-out-for-bee-flies-bombyliidae monthly 0.5 2023-04-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/422218c6-21ba-4971-821c-94e259dee556/bfly1+copy1533.jpg Current Issue - Danger afoot for ground nesting bees: Look out for bee flies, Bombyliidae - Make it stand out Bee flies like this Greater Bee Fly frequent meadows bustling with blossoms and are often mistakenly identified as bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/87fd472f-35f9-4f2d-8486-aca66b72fe4c/Chrysanthrax+cypris+copy1270.jpg Current Issue - Danger afoot for ground nesting bees: Look out for bee flies, Bombyliidae - Make it stand out Distinct patches of black on the wings of Chrysanthrax cypris make it easy to identify this pollinator in the meadow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/91e40305-d4ab-4618-ab60-60f0a80797a7/Anthrax+georgicus+copy912.jpg Current Issue - Danger afoot for ground nesting bees: Look out for bee flies, Bombyliidae - Make it stand out Pretty Anthrax georgicus devours larvae of ground dwelling tiger beetles as they develop in their earthen galleries. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/4/3/how-nice-to-see-a-bee-tree-honey-bees-apis-mellifera monthly 0.5 2023-04-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/23514819-70ac-41ae-be18-b1e6bf94a9f9/DSC_2199+%282%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - How nice to see a bee tree: Honey bees, Apis mellifera - Make it stand out Hairy beggar tick is irresistible to honey bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/eb9c6694-a6eb-40e3-924d-11dfd0b4ecf5/IMG-0887+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - How nice to see a bee tree: Honey bees, Apis mellifera - Make it stand out Interpretive signs alert trail walkers and cyclists to bee-ware of honeybees at work. What a delight to see a bee tree amidst a beautiful urban park and to acknowledge important ecosystem services provided by honey bees. Image: Paula M. Shrewsbury, PhD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/3/19/destination-big-cypress-national-preserve-and-corkscrew-swamp-sanctuary-florida-to-meet-the-mighty-eastern-lubber-grasshopper-romalea-microptera monthly 0.5 2023-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b92052a7-ee41-4612-8f8c-f1cd1311dac9/1giant+lubber+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida to meet the mighty eastern lubber grasshopper, Romalea microptera - Make it stand out Lubber locusts are one of the largest of insects found in the United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/02d3399b-a956-4a22-81c0-927da2887e61/3spines+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida to meet the mighty eastern lubber grasshopper, Romalea microptera - Make it stand out Wicked spines on legs can stab the flesh of attackers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6a6950ff-21f7-4ace-b793-f89716e69bee/2tobaccojuice+copy928.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida to meet the mighty eastern lubber grasshopper, Romalea microptera - Make it stand out When threatened, lubbers and other grasshoppers regurgitate noxious gut contents colloquially known as ‘tobacco juice’ that may be repellent to predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c59e7638-ec4c-4e1e-a08d-070979e986dc/4spiracle+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida to meet the mighty eastern lubber grasshopper, Romalea microptera - Make it stand out An opening on the side of the lubber’s body emits a noxious froth produced by glands within the exoskeleton. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/3/19/destination-big-cypress-national-preserve-to-meet-a-smiley-face-spider-spiny-orbweaver-gasteracantha-cancriformis monthly 0.5 2023-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/817d458d-aac0-4f67-81fa-a4bdbb5c9f0f/spinyorbweaver+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve to meet a smiley face spider: Spiny orbweaver, Gasteracantha cancriformis - Make it stand out What would a predator think when it saw this tiny thorny face with a ghoulish grin leering back at it? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9704adee-eedc-49e6-a4f0-8bedb7627032/spinysixeyes+copy1795.jpg Current Issue - Destination Big Cypress National Preserve to meet a smiley face spider: Spiny orbweaver, Gasteracantha cancriformis - Make it stand out Spiny orbweavers may be even creepier when they have six eyes instead of two. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/3/13/will-record-warmth-result-in-suicidal-emergence-of-tent-caterpillars-eastern-tent-caterpillars-malacosoma-americanum monthly 0.5 2023-03-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6c776ff6-aa8a-490f-a341-5e1cd45dacfd/etccatarbnews1500.jpg Current Issue - Will record warmth result in suicidal emergence of tent caterpillars? Eastern tent caterpillars, Malacosoma americanum - Make it stand out The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe running down the center of its back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c8624520-d5bd-4c98-bec7-abfdc917e30b/forsyth1+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Will record warmth result in suicidal emergence of tent caterpillars? Eastern tent caterpillars, Malacosoma americanum - Make it stand out Forsythia blossoms herald the return of eastern tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/028f5750-938a-4fb1-bfb9-b14930eeefe6/etcdefol+copy1976.jpg Current Issue - Will record warmth result in suicidal emergence of tent caterpillars? Eastern tent caterpillars, Malacosoma americanum - Make it stand out Will this spring bring bountiful bivouacs of eastern tent caterpillars or will an early arrival of caterpillars and late arrival of cherry leaves spell trouble for these early season defoliators here in the mid-Atlantic? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/3/6/from-the-mailbag-mealybugs-pseudococcidae-in-the-greenhouse-and-their-destroyer-cryptolaemus-montrouzieri monthly 0.5 2023-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a69e9f40-aba8-434c-8a9a-6d1461bbe7d6/mealydestroyeradlv+copy+2_Adj.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mealybugs, Pseudococcidae, in the greenhouse and their destroyer, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri - Make it stand out On leaves heavily infested by mealybugs it is not unusual to find both adult and larval mealybug destroyers. The waxy filaments adorning the beetle larva may help protect the larva from attack by its own enemies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0b27adb4-7da9-48dd-a8a2-4751083a5006/DSC_2042+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mealybugs, Pseudococcidae, in the greenhouse and their destroyer, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri - Make it stand out In tropical and semitropical realms, mealybugs like these dining on a palm frond reach astounding densities. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6402e799-1207-4f85-bb51-5ac29af5390b/mealydestroyerhibisc+copy955.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mealybugs, Pseudococcidae, in the greenhouse and their destroyer, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri - Make it stand out Fair hibiscus, though your buds may be withered by the dreaded mealybug, fear not. The destroyer is nigh to bring an end to your season of terror. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/2/27/from-the-mailbag-whos-that-large-dead-insect-on-the-driveway-green-june-beetle-grub-cotinus-nitida monthly 0.5 2023-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/831744da-22c1-4908-8c47-df26d23e7773/greenjunebeetlegrub+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Who’s that large dead insect on the driveway? Green June Beetle Grub, Cotinis nitida - Make it stand out A very large green June beetle grub discovered its thermal limits on a cold December night. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/dbeb592e-40af-479a-b940-4f6e5776e717/DSC_0050+%283%29+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Who’s that large dead insect on the driveway? Green June Beetle Grub, Cotinis nitida - Make it stand out A pair of green June beetles exhumed in a mulch pile tries to escape a prying camera lens. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/2/20/from-the-mailbag-mud-daubers-and-humans-partner-to-create-unique-pottery-black-and-yellow-mud-dauber-wasps-sceliphron-caementarium monthly 0.5 2023-02-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5a726644-4215-424f-85e3-fb7601efec85/muddauber+copy1966.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mud daubers and humans partner to create unique pottery: Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, Sceliphron caementarium - Make it stand out A beautiful black and yellow mud dauber prepares to gather mud at the water’s edge of the mighty Shenandoah. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9142d216-55c4-43f9-8f0e-17acae2f61d6/andysmith+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mud daubers and humans partner to create unique pottery: Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, Sceliphron caementarium - Make it stand out By building a nest inside a woodstove, a mud dauber unwittingly helped create an interesting piece of pottery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/45df437e-2b90-4fe4-8f6d-488f12a35dc1/blackand+yellowdauber+copy1816.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mud daubers and humans partner to create unique pottery: Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, Sceliphron caementarium - Make it stand out After provisioning all the cells with spiders and laying an egg in each cell, a mud dauber puts the finishing touches on a nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3732721e-9199-46a1-96de-b03ec1d3384e/DSC_7961+%282%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mud daubers and humans partner to create unique pottery: Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, Sceliphron caementarium - Make it stand out Several juicy paralyzed spiders await the hungry jaws of a mud dauber larva inside their clay crypt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c5052c36-d88a-44e6-b249-f40c5f766681/Exit+holes1500_7964.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – Mud daubers and humans partner to create unique pottery: Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, Sceliphron caementarium - Make it stand out Exit holes mark emergence sites of mud daubers that have completed development within mud nests constructed by their mothers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/2/13/from-the-mailbag-white-lilies-feeling-the-blues-could-it-be-the-banded-greenhouse-thrips-hercinothrips-femoralis monthly 0.5 2023-02-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6cd45d40-b32d-4e85-b745-f697ba3b764b/DSC_2734+copy1074.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – white lilies feeling the blues: Could it be the banded greenhouse thrips, Hercinothrips femoralis? - Make it stand out Herds of yellow thrips larvae and dark brown adult thrips turn green leaf tissue silver as they suck the life out of a white swamp lily. Spherical blobs of dark brown excrement are another clue of a thrips infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/fb885996-f6a4-42b9-a061-437991c3d3a3/IMG-8758+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – white lilies feeling the blues: Could it be the banded greenhouse thrips, Hercinothrips femoralis? - Make it stand out This poor swamp lily is headed to the compost heap after being attacked by thrips. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ec07ca97-cc25-4bb4-a902-85deb6306bd0/minutepirate+copy1720.jpg Current Issue - From the mailbag – white lilies feeling the blues: Could it be the banded greenhouse thrips, Hercinothrips femoralis? - Make it stand out When not dining on lace bugs, minute pirate bugs like this one attack and kill thrips outdoors and also when released in thrips-infested greenhouses. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/2/6/me-and-my-shadow-cellar-spider-pholcus-phalangioides monthly 0.5 2023-02-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1fc8b82d-573a-4402-8247-2c4e1990fdd2/cellar2small+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Me and my shadow: Cellar spider, Pholcus phalangioides - Make it stand out It’s easy to see why cellar spiders are often called daddy-long-legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a1e8220a-2d49-4b1c-8432-c306f331013e/DSC_2609+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Me and my shadow: Cellar spider, Pholcus phalangioides - Make it stand out A pile of tiny insect carcasses and some white droplets of spider excrement mark the spot beneath a cellar spider’s lair. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/1/30/rotting-vegetation-is-picture-perfect-for-picture-winged-flies-in-paradise-picture-winged-flies-drosophilidae monthly 0.5 2023-02-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/59027323-63fa-46b7-986f-a0cbaf2fe680/hawaiiabdrosoph+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Rotting vegetation is picture perfect for picture-winged flies in paradise: Picture-winged flies, Drosophilidae - Make it stand out Picture this picture-winged fly, which will soon deposit eggs on decomposing vegetation nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9ce94bc1-fc31-4984-b93f-3612232e9a27/DSC_2389+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Rotting vegetation is picture perfect for picture-winged flies in paradise: Picture-winged flies, Drosophilidae - Make it stand out Beautiful blossoms of the cannonball tree fall, rot, and become food for recyclers like the larvae of picture-winged flies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/950173a5-dfe4-496d-8c5b-adf43e84fac2/DSC_2439+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Rotting vegetation is picture perfect for picture-winged flies in paradise: Picture-winged flies, Drosophilidae - Make it stand out Can you guess how the strange cannonball tree got its name? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/1/23/on-the-prowl-to-paralyze-pests-here-in-the-dmv-four-toothed-mason-wasps-monobia-quadridens monthly 0.5 2023-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1782ae34-7a81-4a09-adf1-0216f626df83/masonmountainmint+copy1978.jpg Current Issue - On the prowl to paralyze pests here in the DMV: Four-toothed mason wasps, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out Mountain mint, Pycnanthemum, is a delightful native plant and super attractor for many pollinators, including caterpillar-hunting, four-toothed mason wasps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f95aecd3-cadf-4c76-93c4-14651d8c9fc5/masonwasplarvae+copy1823.jpg Current Issue - On the prowl to paralyze pests here in the DMV: Four-toothed mason wasps, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out Nestled in tiny chambers made of mud, wasp larvae complete their development within a channel in my vinyl window frame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0de67ffe-507d-4e03-b6da-7e4d749fb328/monobia+%282%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - On the prowl to paralyze pests here in the DMV: Four-toothed mason wasps, Monobia quadridens - Make it stand out Spotted horsemint, Monarda, is another gorgeous native perennial highly attractive to many beneficial wasps, including four-toothed mason wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/1/16/paralyzing-prey-in-paradise-keyhole-wasp-pachodynerus-nasidens monthly 0.5 2023-01-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e160cbfb-9bdd-4ddc-a10f-1e2e088cd47a/keyholewaspcleans+copy1550.jpg Current Issue - Paralyzing prey in Paradise: Keyhole wasp, Pachodynerus nasidens - Make it stand out Pretty keyhole wasps remove debris from holes in wood that are potential nurseries for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b8f78d54-b10b-4e52-91b8-f05ac8c49039/holesinpost+copy1717.jpg Current Issue - Paralyzing prey in Paradise: Keyhole wasp, Pachodynerus nasidens - Make it stand out Abandoned galleries in wooden posts made by wood-boring insects are ideal nest sites for keyhole wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/1/9/unwelcome-guests-in-hawaii-american-cockroach-periplaneta-americana-german-cockroach-blattella-germanica-and-western-yellowjacket-vespula-pensylvanica monthly 0.5 2023-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ee563f39-2e07-48fc-b9c4-d6dc291e2b86/yellowjackroachhaw+copy1616.jpg Current Issue - Unwelcome guests in Hawai’i: American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, German cockroach, Blattella germanica, and Western yellowjacket, Vespula pensylvanica - Make it stand out Doing what comes naturally, an invasive yellowjacket is a diner while an invasive cockroach becomes dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f0c76731-ccde-4bd7-a5f1-efc3f3589ca5/german2+copy1400.jpg Current Issue - Unwelcome guests in Hawai’i: American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, German cockroach, Blattella germanica, and Western yellowjacket, Vespula pensylvanica - Make it stand out German cockroaches like this female carrying her egg case have colonized the Hawaiian Islands and countries around the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2023/1/2/gulf-fritillaries-wish-you-a-happy-new-year-from-their-new-home-in-hawaii-gulf-fritillary-agraulis-vanillae monthly 0.5 2023-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c1113864-d8a2-4a35-9f3e-912712dc21d0/gulffritbest+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Gulf fritillaries wish you a Happy New Year from their new home in Hawai’i: Gulf Fritillary, Agraulis vanillae - Make it stand out The gorgeous Gulf Fritillary butterfly is an exotic visitor welcomed by many on the islands of Hawai’i. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bd1fecf5-1820-41b7-a5ce-0dca3b197983/passionvineflower+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Gulf fritillaries wish you a Happy New Year from their new home in Hawai’i: Gulf Fritillary, Agraulis vanillae - Make it stand out Flowers of the passion vine are among the most magnificent in the plant world but some passion vines are invasive on the Hawaiian Islands. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/12/18/royal-wanderers-settle-into-a-far-away-home-monarch-butterflies-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2023-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b68f0d2e-356f-4118-80f0-ee4b63e51c1d/monarchchristmas2022+copy+2000.jpg Current Issue - Royal wanderers settle into a far-away home: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out On behalf of Bug of the Week, monarch butterflies wish you a Happy Holiday Season and Joyous New Year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ce859f91-b89e-4576-be5a-97a1e4b44a77/milkweed+copy916.jpg Current Issue - Royal wanderers settle into a far-away home: Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Beautiful milkweeds provide nutritious sources of food for caterpillars and monarch butterflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/12/12/orchids-and-ants-early-invaders-of-lava-flows-bamboo-orchid-arundina-graminifolia-and-an-unidentified-ant-formicidae-sp monthly 0.5 2022-12-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f553e746-d0c8-4622-862b-ff79aaf3fd59/orchidant2+copy800.jpg Current Issue - Orchids and ants, early invaders of lava flows: Bamboo orchid, Arundina graminifolia and an unidentified ant, Formicidae sp. - Make it stand out Non-native bamboo orchids and ants are early colonists to newly formed volcanic soils in Hawai’i. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/320db7ae-fbde-4104-a8fe-6911211da058/bambooorchid+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Orchids and ants, early invaders of lava flows: Bamboo orchid, Arundina graminifolia and an unidentified ant, Formicidae sp. - Make it stand out Native to several countries in Asia, beautiful bamboo orchids are now found on continents and islands around the globe. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/12/5/destination-hawaii-where-strange-insects-colonize-new-land-psyllid-galls-on-hia-tree-pariaconus-spp monthly 0.5 2022-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8d50d5ab-5128-4904-a6f9-d3f2ebc18f56/ohiapsyllid2+copyAdj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Hawai’i, where strange insects colonize new land: Psyllid galls on ʻŌhiʻa tree, Pariaconus spp. - Make it stand out Nestled inside a leaf gall, a tiny Pariaconus nymph with wing buds will soon molt to become an adult. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4e28f025-1d9a-446e-8cea-7e913f87a83c/DSC_1566+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Hawai’i, where strange insects colonize new land: Psyllid galls on ʻŌhiʻa tree, Pariaconus spp. - Make it stand out New land formed this week with ongoing eruptions in the lava lake of Kilauea and lava flows of Mauna Loa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f0c7875e-c8b9-46fe-afed-de6f8633632f/DSC_1629+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Hawai’i, where strange insects colonize new land: Psyllid galls on ʻŌhiʻa tree, Pariaconus spp. - Make it stand out In the other-worldly landscape of a recent lava flow, sacred ʻŌhiʻa trees are among the first colonists to take root. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d1e6daa9-3cd7-4265-a1f4-3b2baf69d65d/rod+copyPMS_2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Hawai’i, where strange insects colonize new land: Psyllid galls on ʻŌhiʻa tree, Pariaconus spp. - Make it stand out Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) caused by two fungi has killed tens of thousands of trees on Hawai’i, threatening not only this culturally important tree but myriad insects, birds, and other wildlife intimately associated with this keystone species. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/11/28/crapemyrtles-are-not-dreaming-of-a-white-christmas-crapemyrtle-bark-scale-acanthococcus-eriococcus-lagerstroemiae monthly 0.5 2022-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1847753f-53ac-4a5f-b9f4-df88a30a5f08/oviscaeggs+copy834.jpg Current Issue - Crapemyrtles are not dreaming of a white Christmas: Crapemyrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus (=Eriococcus) lagerstroemiae - Make it stand out What lies beneath the snowy white egg-sac of crepe myrtle bark scale? Hundreds of pink eggs! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/158e0a1d-ffdd-4993-88fd-ac26d5450069/crepemyrtlebarkscale3+copy1468.jpg Current Issue - Crapemyrtles are not dreaming of a white Christmas: Crapemyrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus (=Eriococcus) lagerstroemiae - Make it stand out That’s not snow on the branches of this crapemyrtle. Thousands of crapemyrtle bark scales suck sap, killing limbs and excreting honeydew which supports the growth of black sooty mold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a8383221-97d7-4d6a-bd98-f93bf7536e9a/DSC_3882crop+copy1597.jpg Current Issue - Crapemyrtles are not dreaming of a white Christmas: Crapemyrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus (=Eriococcus) lagerstroemiae - Make it stand out A close-up reveals egg-sacs of females and encrustations of black sooty mold covering a branch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b8b293db-4802-4ffc-8ac5-37d29ddb3224/DSC_0150+%282%29+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Crapemyrtles are not dreaming of a white Christmas: Crapemyrtle bark scale, Acanthococcus (=Eriococcus) lagerstroemiae - Make it stand out Predators like this lady beetle eat scale insect, including crapemyrtle bark scale. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/11/21/whats-that-on-an-oak-leaf-animal-plant-fungus-nah-gall-insect-galls-wasps-cynipidae monthly 0.5 2022-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8fc76318-262a-433f-8b78-4249e4e54f1e/suehauser+copy996.jpg Current Issue - What’s that on an oak leaf? Animal? Plant? Fungus? Nah, gall insect – Galls wasps, Cynipidae - Make it stand out Weird structures on oak leaves, branches, and reproductive structures may be galls, the handiwork of tiny wasps called cynipids. Image credit: Sue Hauser https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8dc4a0ea-a2d6-4b0d-afbe-4df9708bb950/cynipid2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What’s that on an oak leaf? Animal? Plant? Fungus? Nah, gall insect – Galls wasps, Cynipidae - Make it stand out This tiny wasp with a very large abdomen is a cynipid gall wasp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/59936b79-2dc0-4e10-88cf-244eb9a7f1ed/woolsower+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What’s that on an oak leaf? Animal? Plant? Fungus? Nah, gall insect – Galls wasps, Cynipidae - Make it stand out Beautiful wool sower galls frequent branches of oak trees throughout the eastern United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e9b093a2-0093-4a7e-9044-33fcf8f009f8/oaksdulles+copy813.jpg Current Issue - What’s that on an oak leaf? Animal? Plant? Fungus? Nah, gall insect – Galls wasps, Cynipidae - Make it stand out Heavy infestations of horned oak galls contributed to the demise of pin oaks at Dulles airport. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7c237b28-b0bd-4cd5-9344-44c61d6b0749/waspsgalls+copy1914.jpg Current Issue - What’s that on an oak leaf? Animal? Plant? Fungus? Nah, gall insect – Galls wasps, Cynipidae - Make it stand out Sweet secretions produced by cynipid galls attract sugar-craving yellow jackets and paper wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/11/14/two-tiny-vampires-leave-their-itchy-calling-cards-along-the-potomac-black-flies-simuliidae-and-no-see-ums-ceratopogonidae monthly 0.5 2023-11-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/27c6bce4-c037-4017-8ca8-1096f9a05e29/blackflyenlarged+copy1549.jpg Current Issue - Two tiny vampires leave their itchy calling cards along the Potomac: black flies, Simuliidae and no-see-ums, Ceratopogonidae - Make it stand out Whoa! If she drinks any more blood this black fly might explode! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2d87af67-c029-420b-b2cc-33d5fdad500c/blackflybites.jpeg Current Issue - Two tiny vampires leave their itchy calling cards along the Potomac: black flies, Simuliidae and no-see-ums, Ceratopogonidae - Make it stand out Some people will have severe reddish welts and swollen legs that persist for days and weeks following black fly bites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/03b1932a-5f0c-486b-9f8d-e1d2cc6e016f/noseeum2022+copy940.jpg Current Issue - Two tiny vampires leave their itchy calling cards along the Potomac: black flies, Simuliidae and no-see-ums, Ceratopogonidae - Make it stand out Female no-see-ums gain several times their body weight at each blood meal. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/11/7/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-monarchs-arent-the-only-orange-and-black-migrant-here-in-the-dmv-variegated-fritillary-euptoieta-claudia monthly 0.5 2022-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/209ff3a7-2a6e-403a-8974-498f1f1488c5/variegatedfrit_adj.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag: Monarchs aren’t the only orange and black migrant here in the DMV – Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta claudia - Make it stand out Many flowering plants including butterfly weed are used as nectar sources for variegated fritillaries and many other pollinators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/42573506-d8c5-4097-941a-1032e4ece14d/adreonhubbard+copy670.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag: Monarchs aren’t the only orange and black migrant here in the DMV – Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta claudia - Make it stand out Variegated fritillaries will be seen in gardens even during the month of November here in Maryland. Photo credit: Adreon Hubbard https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c4fa2327-fb5d-4c10-8cd1-b1d05929e75d/fritcat1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag: Monarchs aren’t the only orange and black migrant here in the DMV – Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta claudia - Make it stand out A gorgeous fritillary caterpillar happily munches on violets in my landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/eb814ef3-22f5-4cab-9d9e-44f73b78a18a/fritpup_adj.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag: Monarchs aren’t the only orange and black migrant here in the DMV – Variegated Fritillary, Euptoieta claudia - Make it stand out Within a breathtaking chrysalis, the caterpillar becomes a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/10/31/bugs-in-orange-and-black-three-spooky-assassins-milkweed-assassin-bug-zelus-longipes-orange-assassin-bug-pselliopus-barberi-and-wheel-bug-arilus-cristatus monthly 0.5 2022-10-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0e964c7f-99f7-4135-924b-cfb03f294b2c/1orangeassassin2+copy1644.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black – Three spooky assassins: milkweed assassin bug, Zelus longipes; orange assassin bug, Pselliopus barberi; and wheel bug, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out This orange assassin bug wearing black jailhouse stripes delivered a trick, not a treat to a hapless leafhopper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9085273f-16ff-4494-8346-1d24761f526e/2milkweedassassin+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black – Three spooky assassins: milkweed assassin bug, Zelus longipes; orange assassin bug, Pselliopus barberi; and wheel bug, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out Sticky forelegs help the milkweed assassin bug snare its prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a55e63a8-da29-4055-9532-89291e447606/3assassinhighfive2+copy1534.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black – Three spooky assassins: milkweed assassin bug, Zelus longipes; orange assassin bug, Pselliopus barberi; and wheel bug, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out What does it mean when wheel bug nymphs give each other a high five? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68a4e54e-f0ef-4729-a27a-0b60b6a0ae25/Pumpkin+copy.75x.75.png Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black – Three spooky assassins: milkweed assassin bug, Zelus longipes; orange assassin bug, Pselliopus barberi; and wheel bug, Arilus cristatus - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/10/23/bumpy-sticky-times-for-oaks-in-cities-oak-lecanium-scale-parthenolecanium-quercifex monthly 0.5 2022-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/884d7f14-5db6-4088-9f39-88eb0758bf22/1DSC_3088+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bumpy, sticky times for oaks in cities: Oak lecanium scale, Parthenolecanium quercifex - Make it stand out Brown bumps lining branches of oak trees are the bloated bodies of scale insects that suck vital sap from trees. They excrete a sticky sugar-rich liquid called honeydew. Honeydew fouls leaves and objects beneath the tree and attracts stinging insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/891aeff3-03e7-4760-9523-92e26c1097de/2DSC_3095+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Bumpy, sticky times for oaks in cities: Oak lecanium scale, Parthenolecanium quercifex - Make it stand out Oaks provide shade and beauty to city streets but are sometimes plagued by insect pests, diseases, and environmental stress. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/515730d5-4522-4af7-8f44-829fbd306c66/3DSC_0087+copy1582.jpg Current Issue - Bumpy, sticky times for oaks in cities: Oak lecanium scale, Parthenolecanium quercifex - Make it stand out Immature scale insects suck sap from oak leaves in spring, summer, and autumn. They excrete honeydew, which serves as a substrate for the growth of a dark fungus called sooty mold. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/10/15/sunny-with-a-chance-of-aphid-flurries-elm-cockscomb-gall-aphid-colopha-ulmicola monthly 0.5 2022-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9ec0476f-63b5-45e8-8aed-af0f742a55fd/elmaphid1+copy1185.jpg Current Issue - Sunny with a chance of aphid flurries: Elm cockscomb gall aphid, Colopha ulmicola - Make it stand out Overwintering female aphids seek a crevice or bark flap on elm in which to lay a single egg to survive winter’s perils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a509661e-fd68-47dd-aaca-34db6dca6d5d/DSC_7766+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Sunny with a chance of aphid flurries: Elm cockscomb gall aphid, Colopha ulmicola - Make it stand out This strange gall resembling the comb of a rooster is the early summer home for hundreds of aphids. Early in formation, these galls are green. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/799d59e5-14e8-4bbd-a8a7-c7b0525fbe3a/elmcockscombrabaglia1+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Sunny with a chance of aphid flurries: Elm cockscomb gall aphid, Colopha ulmicola - Make it stand out Later in the season galls assume the brilliant red color of a cockscomb. This elm tree might hold the record for the most galls ever. Image credit: Bob Rabaglia https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/10/10/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mail-bag-death-spider-nah-spotted-orbweaver-neoscona-crucifera monthly 0.5 2022-10-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/955fb56a-e27c-490c-b4e7-22272da991ea/spottedorb+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mail bag: Death spider? Nah, Spotted orbweaver, Neoscona crucifera - Make it stand out My spotted orbweaver just hanging out near the front porch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/95262bd4-addd-40c7-8a9a-2d2215ec3f16/spottedorberin+copy1054.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mail bag: Death spider? Nah, Spotted orbweaver, Neoscona crucifera - Make it stand out A spotted orbweaver hanging upside-down presents a spooky visage to a curious mom. Image credit: Erin Kollins https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e7f3bb15-83ec-4c81-b7a9-6a129833984d/spottedorbweb+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mail bag: Death spider? Nah, Spotted orbweaver, Neoscona crucifera - Make it stand out A fine morning mist reveals the beautiful web of a spotted orbweaver. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/10/3/look-but-do-not-touch-puss-caterpillar-megalopyge-opercularis-white-flannel-moth-norape-ovina-io-moth-automeris-io-buck-moth-hemileuca-spp-and-hag-moth-phobetron-pithecium monthly 0.5 2022-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/75dc85e7-537f-4401-b068-42661c050c1a/Jo-ann1+copy+2Adj.jpg Current Issue - Look but do not touch: puss caterpillar, Megalopyge opercularis; White flannel moth, Norape ovina; Io moth, Automeris io; buck moth Hemileuca spp.; and hag moth, Phobetron pithecium - Make it stand out Look at - but do not touch! - the furry puss caterpillar. Image credit: Jo-Ann Chason https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e01e1110-a74f-42c8-9290-4099734d48b5/DSC_5766+%282%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Look but do not touch: puss caterpillar, Megalopyge opercularis; White flannel moth, Norape ovina; Io moth, Automeris io; buck moth Hemileuca spp.; and hag moth, Phobetron pithecium - Make it stand out Tropical Io moth caterpillars have incredibly long urticating spines. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/9/26/steel-blue-cricket-hunters-steal-lives-steel-blue-cricket-hunters-chlorion-aerarium monthly 0.5 2022-09-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/18050975-acf8-4920-8af9-7a12788a2a06/steelbluehunter2022+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Steel-blue cricket-hunters steal lives: Steel-blue cricket-hunters, Chlorion aerarium - Make it stand out With a cricket securely tucked beneath, a steel-blue cricket-hunter scaled my brick siding, apparently to gain altitude for flight to her nesting site. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e049cca4-cb51-49ef-8736-ddd49efc02d3/cicadakillerburrow+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Steel-blue cricket-hunters steal lives: Steel-blue cricket-hunters, Chlorion aerarium - Make it stand out Burrows of cicada killer wasps are often used as nest sites for steel-blue cricket-hunters. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/9/19/when-pearly-eye-meets-dragonfly-northern-pearly-eye-enodia-anthedon-and-clubtail-dragonflies-gomphidae-spp monthly 0.5 2022-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1c375dbc-38e4-4920-8a77-67533def5270/1DSC_0741+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - When pearly-eye meets dragonfly: Northern pearly-eye, Enodia anthedon, and clubtail dragonflies, Gomphidae spp. - Make it stand out Gorgeous Cobra Clubtails often rest with wings widespread on trees near their riverine hunting grounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68bb1ec8-05f3-43f5-97f3-0c8a94afb77c/dragonnymph+-+Copy1500.jpg Current Issue - When pearly-eye meets dragonfly: Northern pearly-eye, Enodia anthedon, and clubtail dragonflies, Gomphidae spp. - Make it stand out While living the life aquatic, fierce dragonfly nymphs consume untold numbers of mosquito larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c3991411-a1fd-4ea7-97b2-1519a81c0f07/2DSC_0208+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - When pearly-eye meets dragonfly: Northern pearly-eye, Enodia anthedon, and clubtail dragonflies, Gomphidae spp. - Make it stand out Dragonfly nymphs exit their aquatic nursery, climb vegetation, and shed juvenile skins to become aerial hunters in the world above the water. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/9/12/devilish-times-for-hickory-hickory-horned-devils-and-royal-walnut-moths-citheronia-regalis monthly 0.5 2022-09-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b1d399f4-f721-460c-aed0-24cd5f5c9e94/IMG-0060+copyBMiller_2000.jpg Current Issue - Devilish times for hickory: Hickory horned devils and royal walnut moths, Citheronia regalis - Make it stand out Adorned with horns and almost six inches in length, the hickory horned devil caterpillar is harmless unless you are a hickory tree. Image credit: Bill Miller https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/98926d52-25ac-41c5-a422-3530927b2be8/2royalpup_1500.jpg Current Issue - Devilish times for hickory: Hickory horned devils and royal walnut moths, Citheronia regalis - Make it stand out The ginormous pupal case of the royal walnut moth is the largest one I’ve ever seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2d02c1b4-685a-4884-8a89-a1748781ba0b/royalchamber+copy1496.jpg Current Issue - Devilish times for hickory: Hickory horned devils and royal walnut moths, Citheronia regalis - Make it stand out From her royal chamber, the female royal walnut moth released a pheromone to attract a mate. It worked and in the morning a male had joined her in the cage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9e71b98b-6d21-46f4-abfe-630b2797fd09/DSC_0064+copy1964.jpg Current Issue - Devilish times for hickory: Hickory horned devils and royal walnut moths, Citheronia regalis - Make it stand out Female (above) and male (below) royal walnut moths make a regal couple indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/db03b5ab-6b7d-431c-888e-bb4255d58f4a/royaleggs+copy1468.jpg Current Issue - Devilish times for hickory: Hickory horned devils and royal walnut moths, Citheronia regalis - Make it stand out Leaves of walnut and hickory are favored sites for royal walnut moths to lay eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/9/5/tiny-toads-and-even-tinier-toad-bugs-big-eyed-toad-bug-gelastocoris-oculatus monthly 0.5 2022-09-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/13eed7cf-a790-49e2-ad3c-1234a691e3e7/toadbug2022+copy1411+copy.jpg Current Issue - Tiny toads and even tinier toad bugs: Big-eyed toad bug, Gelastocoris oculatus - Make it stand out Toad bugs really do live up to their namesake in both appearance and hopping ability. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/8/29/underway-doomed-flights-of-spotted-lanternflies-in-the-dmv-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2024-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b608f31d-34ca-4e8e-9fc6-a3f17cf94329/squashedlanternfly+copy1330adj.jpg Current Issue - Underway - doomed flights of spotted lanternflies in the DMV: Spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Dispersal flights by spotted lanternflies are underway. In the human-built environment many spotted lanternflies will fail to reach suitable host plants and will perish like this one, crushed on a sidewalk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0239eca5-3d53-476a-a8bc-0b031c9e4bc9/DSC_3774+%282%29+copy2000adj.jpg Current Issue - Underway - doomed flights of spotted lanternflies in the DMV: Spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Near a grove of heavily infested Tree of Heaven, a short flight into a forest brings a spotted lanternfly to a new host tree suitable for growth and reproduction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/23479464-6d8d-419f-90d8-1c2d5daa19b9/SLF-reported-distribution-9-23-20.jpg Current Issue - Underway - doomed flights of spotted lanternflies in the DMV: Spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out This map charts the distribution of spotted lanternflies in the United States in September of 2020. Credit: New York State IPM. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/422b6f1c-975a-40ea-a363-6fd5c4c6b3a2/SLF-reported-distribution-8-24-20221024_1.jpg Current Issue - Underway - doomed flights of spotted lanternflies in the DMV: Spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out The most recent map of the distribution of spotted lanternfly in the United States in August of 2022 shows a remarkable increase in the number of infested states and counties. Credit: New York State IPM. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/8/22/the-other-monarch-caterpillar-milkweed-tussock-moth-euchaetes-egle monthly 0.5 2024-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/00278a38-9556-48d5-987f-291b9dd37a27/milktussocksamtaylor+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - The other monarch caterpillar: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle - Make it stand out Hairy caterpillars of the milkweed tussock moth resembling “Cousin Itt” are busy consuming leaves of milkweeds. Image credit: Sam Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c8d703f3-e07e-46b7-9fa1-4cdf15afc315/moncat1_adj+copy500.jpg Current Issue - The other monarch caterpillar: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle - Make it stand out No mistaking the rather naked monarch caterpillar for its dining partner on milkweeds, the milkweed tussock moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c05c2b97-d253-439d-aa33-bd341a96a65c/milkweedtussock2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - The other monarch caterpillar: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle - Make it stand out Adult milkweed tussock moths have drab brown wings but a pretty racy abdomen sporting Halloween colors of orange and black. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/8/15/weeding-can-turn-spicy-when-saddlebacks-are-around-saddleback-caterpillar-acharia-stimulae monthly 0.5 2022-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2ac9f57e-fab1-4cc7-a570-586adf81363a/saddlebackoniris+copy1546.jpg Current Issue - Weeding can turn spicy when saddlebacks are around: Saddleback caterpillar, Acharia stimulae - Make it stand out Front, rear, and along the flanks, venom glands in the skin of the caterpillar prepare a potent venom delivered via urticating hairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f5151685-225d-493b-afc8-5bebd418fab1/saddlebackmalefemale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Weeding can turn spicy when saddlebacks are around: Saddleback caterpillar, Acharia stimulae - Make it stand out Adult saddleback moths are rather nondescript rascals commonly seen in summer and autumn in the DMV (male above, female below). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e6249dbe-8ee8-4007-be56-82e5ad0c6dac/cotesia2+copy1862.jpg Current Issue - Weeding can turn spicy when saddlebacks are around: Saddleback caterpillar, Acharia stimulae - Make it stand out Tiny brachonid wasps emerge from silken cocoons that festooned the exterior of a parasitized saddleback caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/8/8/saving-hercules-and-a-moon-moth-hercules-beetle-dynastes-tityus-and-luna-moth-actias-luna monthly 0.5 2022-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68c1c948-7ecb-4802-8d61-dc8bf1f21377/hercules2022+copy1581adj.jpg Current Issue - Saving Hercules and a moon moth: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus, and Luna moth, Actias luna - Make it stand out Attracted by a parking lot light at night, this handsome Hercules beetle deposited on the asphalt below stood little chance of surviving long enough to find a mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/42b61baa-c2b7-41cd-a480-9f6eb80a6123/lunafalseyespots+copy2000+copy.jpg Current Issue - Saving Hercules and a moon moth: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus, and Luna moth, Actias luna - Make it stand out Beneath a security light at a day care center, a beautiful male luna moth is imperiled by small feet as children arrive early in the morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b0ce6751-08e7-4d73-8489-cd894818ea1b/lightpost+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Saving Hercules and a moon moth: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus, and Luna moth, Actias luna - Make it stand out High intensity lights in parking lots attract many insects that may not survive a day in this unnatural and hostile location. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/8/1/scorched-locust-courtesy-of-the-locust-leafminer-odontota-dorsalis monthly 0.5 2022-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b416f334-db65-4e64-bae3-67f07d980c41/1adultandeggslocustlm+copy1000.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust, courtesy of the Locust leafminer, Odontota dorsalis - Make it stand out After laying a batch of eggs, this leafminer mama will cover them with excrement. Yikes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/608e0f6d-1a62-4b5e-a76d-a7063f9b3ec6/2locustleafminerhabitus+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust, courtesy of the Locust leafminer, Odontota dorsalis - Make it stand out Feeding by larval and adult locust leafminers scorch foliage of black locust trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b23625b0-a8c4-4192-b069-5ef4c36ac710/3locustleafminerlarvae+copy1250.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust, courtesy of the Locust leafminer, Odontota dorsalis - Make it stand out Larvae mine the soft tissue between the upper and lower leaf surfaces, creating a white blotch that later turns brown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/8439b6e0-3500-4f53-8e5a-58c905f7cf52/4pupaadultlocustlm+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust, courtesy of the Locust leafminer, Odontota dorsalis - Make it stand out Ready to continue the feast on locust this adult leafminer emerges from its pupal case. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4792e3b7-80ae-4639-b2b7-8ff695e3c010/5loclmaddam2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust, courtesy of the Locust leafminer, Odontota dorsalis - Make it stand out A second generation of locust leafminers begins to eat leaves already attacked by larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/7/25/my-what-big-jaws-you-have-my-dear-reddish-brown-stag-beetle-lucanus-capreolus monthly 0.5 2022-07-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f83ebed6-8e92-4ed9-a095-594379c76c79/1DSC_7649+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - My, what big jaws you have my dear: Reddish-brown Stag Beetle, Lucanus capreolus - Make it stand out Do the impressive jaws of a male reddish-brown stage beetle strike fear in your heart? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/df7f8102-f3aa-4578-b7a8-9a261436a071/2DSC_0255+copy1850.jpg Current Issue - My, what big jaws you have my dear: Reddish-brown Stag Beetle, Lucanus capreolus - Make it stand out Is the pretty female stag beetle a little less scary than its mate? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ae596c82-2b32-48e9-a7da-48d683f67fe9/3DSC_0479+copy1800.jpg Current Issue - My, what big jaws you have my dear: Reddish-brown Stag Beetle, Lucanus capreolus - Make it stand out Larvae of stag beetles are quite similar in appearance to this rather large scarab grub. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/7/18/waxy-wanderers-flocking-flowers-planthoppers-flatidae-and-acanaloniidae monthly 0.5 2022-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9a7938a5-ebd3-42de-9706-b5a0d2790d28/1flatidnymphs2022+copy1700.jpg Current Issue - Waxy wanderers flocking flowers: Planthoppers - Flatidae and Acanaloniidae - Make it stand out See how many flatid nymphs you can find hiding amongst their white wax on this branch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6c0b7469-19a4-4d13-9a6e-e1ed6cd9e009/2acanalonnymph+copy1700.jpg Current Issue - Waxy wanderers flocking flowers: Planthoppers - Flatidae and Acanaloniidae - Make it stand out Strange looking acanaloniid nymphs remind me of the fierce Blurrg of Mandalorian lore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7db66739-1643-42f5-a2a0-6b94cb1913cf/3citrusflatids+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Waxy wanderers flocking flowers: Planthoppers - Flatidae and Acanaloniidae - Make it stand out It’s not unusual to find ranks of waxy adult citrus flatids lining stems and branches of many kinds of plants in the summertime. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ed6b1057-cf23-478a-9988-0ef2d6bc24c0/4acanalonidadult+copy1700.jpg Current Issue - Waxy wanderers flocking flowers: Planthoppers - Flatidae and Acanaloniidae - Make it stand out Leaf-mimicking cone-headed planthoppers are masters of disguise. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/7/11/feasting-and-frolicking-spell-trouble-when-japanese-beetles-popillia-japonica-arrive monthly 0.5 2022-07-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/498a4ebb-e3f8-4a64-8da8-f87cbab340e4/1jpbeetle2014+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Feasting and frolicking spell trouble when Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica, arrive - Make it stand out Volatile chemicals released by damaged leaves and sex pheromones released by female Japanese beetles result in a rambunctious feeding frenzy and love fest on infested plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4d26555a-9aaa-4ad1-a823-af528442be5c/2jbdam+copy1660.jpg Current Issue - Feasting and frolicking spell trouble when Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica, arrive - Make it stand out Lindens, a favorite host for Japanese beetles, can be severely damaged when beetles are numerous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3b2d9aa4-1f10-4e02-891b-d71d13527d49/3jbtrap+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Feasting and frolicking spell trouble when Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica, arrive - Make it stand out Traps collect large numbers of Japanese beetle but plants near traps may be damaged when beetles assemble nearby. Place traps away from plants you want to protect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e0c6d4f5-4e2b-4ffd-ad1a-9b0e0d7f9e66/4whitegrubs+copy1850.jpg Current Issue - Feasting and frolicking spell trouble when Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica, arrive - Make it stand out Larvae of many species of scarabs, including Japanese beetles, are called white grubs. They damage roots of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b313e7eb-eb63-41a0-9983-d3c1240b2c97/5DSC_8495+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Feasting and frolicking spell trouble when Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica, arrive - Make it stand out Mammals including skunks and raccoons damage lawns as they hunt for white grubs of Japanese beetles and other scarabs in soil. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/7/4/small-strange-bugs-with-very-long-legs-stilt-bugs-berytidae monthly 0.5 2022-07-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f8b31d5c-4b19-4e76-b992-54a50bd838f8/stilt+bug1+copy1351.jpg Current Issue - Small, strange bugs with very long legs: Stilt bugs, Berytidae - Make it stand out A stilt bug ponders its next move at the edge of a zinnia leaf. Credit: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5b2fd069-77f0-4144-af4d-1709afc78267/stiltbug2+copy1295.jpg Current Issue - Small, strange bugs with very long legs: Stilt bugs, Berytidae - Make it stand out Amazingly long legs transport the stilt bug across a hairy leaf surface. Note its super long antennae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/600fcc23-783b-4420-83fc-6fbb46a93d40/stiltbugnymphs+copy1680.jpg Current Issue - Small, strange bugs with very long legs: Stilt bugs, Berytidae - Make it stand out This bevy of stilt bug nymphs are “beaks in” on this tender flower stem. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/6/27/life-and-death-in-a-cone-flower-minute-pirate-bugs-orius-spp-and-their-prey-flower-thrips-frankliniella-spp monthly 0.5 2022-06-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e9ba38ed-44cb-4cf0-b2cb-e0aa5b410fc1/Orius2022+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Life and death in a cone flower: Minute pirate bugs, Orius spp., and their prey, flower thrips, Frankliniella spp. - Make it stand out Ahoy matey and thrips beware, minute pirate bugs have landed on the cone flower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c30d0568-23d7-4f51-81df-7b929aac8fb7/DSC_0069+%282%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Life and death in a cone flower: Minute pirate bugs, Orius spp., and their prey, flower thrips, Frankliniella spp. - Make it stand out Cone flowers provide food not only for iconic pollinators like bumble bees but also for a rich community of tiny unseen predators and their prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bd2dc877-1b04-4882-a902-6451d77902a6/minutepiratebugnymph+copy1521.jpg Current Issue - Life and death in a cone flower: Minute pirate bugs, Orius spp., and their prey, flower thrips, Frankliniella spp. - Make it stand out Immature minute pirate bugs are also omnivores, consuming both soft bodied prey and pollen from flowers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/6/13/what-are-those-strange-green-wrapped-leaves-in-unusual-places-leafcutter-bees-megachilidae monthly 0.5 2022-06-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/425f42f6-f493-4b64-a679-00490f4594c8/wellsleafcuttertubes+-+Copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What are those strange green wrapped leaves in unusual places? Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae - Make it stand out Strange tubes of rolled leaves within a vent of a lawn mower are the handiwork of a leafcutter bee. Image credit: Darlene Wells https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e6afa911-1d22-41ba-95b2-648499dcc639/leafcutterrose+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - What are those strange green wrapped leaves in unusual places? Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae - Make it stand out Keep an eye out for circular cuts on leaf margins of trees and shrubs in your garden. These leaf clippings are used by marvelous leafcutter bees to build their nurseries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/117c14a2-1baa-4377-a9ab-ae537fb2bccb/leafcutterintreevoid+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What are those strange green wrapped leaves in unusual places? Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae - Make it stand out In the natural world, tubes constructed by leafcutter bees are often found in voids of trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b557454-cb56-4924-91e3-66136be859ce/European+wool+carder+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What are those strange green wrapped leaves in unusual places? Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae - Make it stand out Coming in for a landing and with its tongue hanging out, this European wool carder bee prepares to sip some nectar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/6/13/cup-plant-feeds-brown-ambrosia-aphid-uroleucon-ambrosiae-which-in-turn-provides-dinner-for-lynx-spiders-lady-beetles-long-legged-flies-flower-flies-and-green-lacewings monthly 0.5 2022-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0bada80c-2fe1-4cb3-a766-9a23ba79a696/Uroleucon_ambrosiae_aphid2_Silphium_5_2022_MJR+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Cup plant feeds brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae, which in turn provides dinner for lynx spiders, lady beetles, long-legged flies, flower flies, and green lacewings - Make it stand out Colonies of brown ambrosia aphids are manufacturing legions of hungry predators ready to sally forth and feast on other pests in my garden. Although an adult flower fly was not sighted, her telltale egg (inside the circle) in the aphid colony confirms her visit and spells trouble for aphids in just a few days when her predatory larva hatches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d229c5c2-cdca-4627-9f9a-72f48d5161d7/cycloneda+copy1225adj.jpg Current Issue - Cup plant feeds brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae, which in turn provides dinner for lynx spiders, lady beetles, long-legged flies, flower flies, and green lacewings - Make it stand out This little Cycloneda lady beetle has her jaws wrapped around a juicy brown ambrosia aphid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/dd3e2589-48a8-44be-a24e-6a5cdcbd196f/lacewingoncupplant+copy755cool80.jpg Current Issue - Cup plant feeds brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae, which in turn provides dinner for lynx spiders, lady beetles, long-legged flies, flower flies, and green lacewings - Make it stand out Early one morning this pretty green lacewing adult stopped by an aphid-infested cup plant. How soon will her meat-eating youngsters appear in the aphid colony? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b080ac2-8ad9-4f34-a4d5-913e7b2f7620/lynxspideroxyopisDSC_3726+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Cup plant feeds brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae, which in turn provides dinner for lynx spiders, lady beetles, long-legged flies, flower flies, and green lacewings - Make it stand out Lynx spiders like this male Oxyopes find aphids irresistibly tasty any time of day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/955803ca-d230-437a-a24f-9bd01bf7f8f6/dolicopodidcupplant+copy782adj.jpg Current Issue - Cup plant feeds brown ambrosia aphid, Uroleucon ambrosiae, which in turn provides dinner for lynx spiders, lady beetles, long-legged flies, flower flies, and green lacewings - Make it stand out Long-legged flies prowl leaves of cup plant in search of prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/6/6/nectar-rewards-for-peony-protecting-body-guards-carpenter-ants-camponotus-spp monthly 0.5 2022-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e5370aec-52f1-4f84-a980-964a694eb8e9/1twoantsonpeony+copy1816.jpg Current Issue - Nectar rewards for peony protecting body guards: Carpenter ants, Camponotus spp. - Make it stand out Are ants really necessary for peonies to bloom? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ffffe0f0-7dff-4d61-a6dc-8216c469b3c3/3DSC_0778+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Nectar rewards for peony protecting body guards: Carpenter ants, Camponotus spp. - Make it stand out Given a choice between tending a herd of sap-sucking aphids for their honeydew reward or protecting the peony bud from aphids, the ants are going with the aphids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/750c1a67-ca35-44f2-a6a6-dc308724f4e1/2nectardrop+copyAdj.jpg Current Issue - Nectar rewards for peony protecting body guards: Carpenter ants, Camponotus spp. - Make it stand out A close look at the peony reveals a drop of nectar secreted by the peony as a reward for guarding the bud. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/5/30/brood-x-encore-billions-of-cicadas-not-this-time-straggling-cicadas-of-brood-x-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2022-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b2050274-25d6-4268-a095-f8573c920ff1/Broodxstraggler2022+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Brood X encore, billions of cicadas? Not this time – Straggling cicadas of Brood X, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Guess who you might see in the next few weeks in your neighborhood, Brood X stragglers! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/303d4542-029b-4cd8-9530-42f5c1b65522/stragglerexuvea2022+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Brood X encore, billions of cicadas? Not this time – Straggling cicadas of Brood X, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out In several states in the eastern half of the US, shed skins appearing on plants in your landscape during the next several weeks are likely those of straggling Brood X cicadas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/182d115b-487e-4efe-aee9-d3f01e3264d7/May+25+map.jpg Current Issue - Brood X encore, billions of cicadas? Not this time – Straggling cicadas of Brood X, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out This recent map compiled from data sent to iNaturalist and Cicada Safari apps shows locations where Brood X cicada stragglers are likely to be seen this spring. Credit: Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/5/23/a-surprisingly-early-visit-by-a-royal-monarch-butterflies-and-their-caterpillars-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2022-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7bc50f39-1d32-4def-a1bc-076f78911d3f/1femalemonarchmay2022+copy957.jpg Current Issue - A surprisingly early visit by a royal: Monarch butterflies and their caterpillars, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out This pretty monarch arrived early to the milkweed patch this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/0906ee45-ee40-4fd0-83e5-fa3e54945770/2malemonarch+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - A surprisingly early visit by a royal: Monarch butterflies and their caterpillars, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Zinnias are dynamite attractors for many butterflies, including male monarchs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2d9a4fe9-4849-4f43-b0d7-067478f04548/20220517_usdm.jpg Current Issue - A surprisingly early visit by a royal: Monarch butterflies and their caterpillars, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Will exceptional drought and extreme heat imperil milkweeds and monarchs as they continue their annual migrations? Graph credit: Richard Heim, NCEI/NOAA https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/5/16/boisterous-bee-havior-of-ground-nesting-bees-colletes-thoracicus monthly 0.5 2022-05-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6eded60e-25ee-45a4-bcde-eb60a8bd27a8/plastererbeemate+copy1645.jpg Current Issue - Boisterous bee-havior of ground nesting bees, Colletes thoracicus - Make it stand out Splendor in the grass as one lucky suitor finds his mate (male on left, female on right). Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c97733d8-6569-4b97-9e91-d9ca9fdf597c/pollenload+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Boisterous bee-havior of ground nesting bees, Colletes thoracicus - Make it stand out Mother plasterer bees gather pollen from trees like our majestic native tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, and store it in subterranean brood chambers for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6b08561a-ae66-4ac9-81d0-63be0cda060d/DSC_7482+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Boisterous bee-havior of ground nesting bees, Colletes thoracicus - Make it stand out Part of my lawn is now thin enough to support a very favorable nesting site for hundreds of entertaining plasterer bees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/5/9/a-warming-world-range-expansions-of-lone-star-ticks-amblyomma-americanum-and-the-alpha-gal-they-carry monthly 0.5 2022-05-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/156d641b-8206-46ff-8d80-4925dc3e8f8d/lonestaronmike3+copy960.jpg Current Issue - A warming world: range expansions of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum, and the alpha-gal they carry - Make it stand out Female lone star ticks are easily identified by the white or off-white spot on the center of their back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3d97be1e-0ddc-4bc1-89c4-17f1ee674414/triticks2+copy1256.jpg Current Issue - A warming world: range expansions of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum, and the alpha-gal they carry - Make it stand out A trio of trouble (clockwise from top): Blacklegged Tick (vector of Lyme and other diseases), Lone Star Tick (vector of alpha-gal and other diseases), American Dog Tick (vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and others). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6575c3c3-8d10-4145-9534-e6dc0328ae20/lonestarrange.jpg Current Issue - A warming world: range expansions of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum, and the alpha-gal they carry - Make it stand out The current range of the lone star tick in the United States has expanded northward in the past century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/be611a0c-86db-4013-a881-f8633ad88927/engorgedtick+copy1616.jpg Current Issue - A warming world: range expansions of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum, and the alpha-gal they carry - Make it stand out Fully engorged ticks are enormous. After feeding for many days, an engorged tick may have increased its body weight 200 times. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ea56e609-2b0c-4760-ab56-f44290071314/tickquest+copy1412.jpg Current Issue - A warming world: range expansions of lone star ticks, Amblyomma americanum, and the alpha-gal they carry - Make it stand out Ticks will climb up vegetation and reach out with forelegs to encounter a host. This behavior is called questing. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/5/2/time-for-tigers-in-the-dmv-six-spotted-green-tiger-beetle-cicindela-sexguttata monthly 0.5 2022-05-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e7f90835-7c22-4fbc-8c35-2701e5e2d09f/tigersearch+%282%29+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - Time for tigers in the DMV: Six-spotted green tiger beetle, Cicindela sexguttata - Make it stand out Poised to pounce on its next meal, the beautiful six-spotted green tiger beetle is a fierce predator in eastern forests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3d4bb3d5-db85-4d48-b746-4214d9c36704/tigerlarv1+%282%29+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - Time for tigers in the DMV: Six-spotted green tiger beetle, Cicindela sexguttata - Make it stand out The strange tiger beetle larva lives in an underground lair and captures unsuspecting prey that stray too near. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/4/25/the-nationals-arent-the-only-ones-wearing-red-at-navy-yard-get-ready-for-red-shouldered-bugs-jadera-haematoloma monthly 0.5 2022-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5e3a7c73-a392-43b6-a2d7-1d3792cde38d/1redshoulderednymphsadults+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - The Nationals aren’t the only ones wearing red at Navy Yard: Get ready for red-shouldered bugs, Jadera haematoloma - Make it stand out By late summer, hordes of winged red-shouldered bugs and wingless nymphs will cluster on the bark of golden rain trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/69955fa8-7fc7-44de-81d1-72f7113a0abc/2Raintrees+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - The Nationals aren’t the only ones wearing red at Navy Yard: Get ready for red-shouldered bugs, Jadera haematoloma - Make it stand out Lining a promenade in Navy Yard, this grove of golden rain trees serves dinner for legions of golden rain tree bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a19e3f6d-2545-4655-8d9b-56146104317b/3goldenrainseeds+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - The Nationals aren’t the only ones wearing red at Navy Yard: Get ready for red-shouldered bugs, Jadera haematoloma - Make it stand out Beneath golden rain trees, thousands of seeds produced last summer provide a ready food source for red-shouldered bugs this spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/21aedd7b-9c10-41c7-91c1-cc8fe02446a7/4goldrainbugnymphs1+copy928.jpg Current Issue - The Nationals aren’t the only ones wearing red at Navy Yard: Get ready for red-shouldered bugs, Jadera haematoloma - Make it stand out Soon bright red nymphs of the golden rain tree bug will appear on the ground, sucking nutrients from seeds of rain trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/4/17/tents-in-the-mojave-western-tent-caterpillar-malacosoma-californicum monthly 0.5 2022-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d0b56c23-8876-4eeb-a6f2-1800a44f0ef8/westerntent2+copy_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Tents in the Mojave: Western tent caterpillar, Malacosoma californicum - Make it stand out Within silken tents adorning desert shrubs, beautiful western tent caterpillars huddle for warmth and protection from predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a5f2d400-5489-4bda-8ff0-5895b05b0c55/etc3+copy1684.jpg Current Issue - Tents in the Mojave: Western tent caterpillar, Malacosoma californicum - Make it stand out Cousin of the western tent caterpillar, the pretty eastern tent caterpillar is active in March and April in the mid-Atlantic region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/83dffca3-1340-423d-a8ca-269edb3db8fa/etcdefoliation+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Tents in the Mojave: Western tent caterpillar, Malacosoma californicum - Make it stand out Cherry trees can be completely defoliated by eastern tent caterpillars in some years. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/4/11/gathering-seeds-and-carrying-tiny-boulders-in-the-desert-harvester-ants-pogonomyrmex-spp monthly 0.5 2022-04-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4c5adb8b-2e65-4a54-9778-ceb55c63116b/harvester2+copy1567.jpg Current Issue - Gathering seeds and carrying tiny boulders in the desert: Harvester ants, Pogonomyrmex spp. - Make it stand out Harvester ants grapple with bird seed placed just outside their nest in the Mojave Desert. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/4/4/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-whos-that-big-spider-hanging-out-on-my-bedroom-drape-fishing-spiders-pisauridae monthly 0.5 2022-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4a9fdc67-8b4a-4879-9e2e-d5ae104f9164/pisa6+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s that big spider hanging out on my bedroom drape? Fishing spiders, Pisauridae - Make it stand out Sometimes found in homes, fishing spiders are among the largest of hunting spiders found in the DMV. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2dc8c436-6b72-4e65-9164-1ef1a7d29f13/dolomedesdiane2+copy585.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Who’s that big spider hanging out on my bedroom drape? Fishing spiders, Pisauridae - Make it stand out Discovering a large fishing spider hanging out on a bedroom drape can give one a bit of start. Image credit: Diane Pedicini https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/3/27/boxelder-bugs-on-the-move-boxelder-bugs-boisea-trivittatus monthly 0.5 2022-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/874b7642-a37c-4df9-a56e-842ac6effce9/boxelderinside2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Boxelder bugs on the move: Boxelder bugs, Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out Warm weather puts boxelder bugs on the move. You may see one or buckets of boxelder bugs either outside or inside your home in coming weeks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/057d3a76-1be8-4535-a8e8-247b95a11dc0/boxeldereggs2+copy1053.jpg Current Issue - Boxelder bugs on the move: Boxelder bugs, Boisea trivittatus - Make it stand out Female boxelder bugs deposit eggs in clusters. Tiny nymphs will hatch and move to the ground to consume seeds and other plant tissues. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/3/21/mason-bees-herald-the-arrival-of-spring-horned-faced-and-orchard-mason-bees-osmia-spp monthly 0.5 2022-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/3b1e5962-53dc-42a9-ad3a-e6827300cffa/masonbeesmating1+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Mason bees herald the arrival of spring: Horned-faced and Blue orchard mason bees, Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Male mason bees are the first to emerge each spring and as females make their appearance, the mating game begins! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e9239b57-f965-4d6c-9c79-871eb9d0cecb/blueorchardpollen+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Mason bees herald the arrival of spring: Horned-faced and Blue orchard mason bees, Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Now that’s a lot of pollen! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7ea80fa3-ed60-4e47-9171-190986d95b28/masonpollenballs_1500ADJ.jpg Current Issue - Mason bees herald the arrival of spring: Horned-faced and Blue orchard mason bees, Osmia spp. - Make it stand out Mason bees fill each tube with glorious yellow pollen cakes, food for their developing offspring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/3/12/terrifying-big-spiders-soon-in-the-dmv-meet-the-jor-spider-trichonephila-clavata-and-its-cousin-the-golden-silk-spider-trichonephila-clavipes monthly 0.5 2022-03-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e7e8065f-3429-49f8-a78c-db8271be3a97/Joro_MaryNouri+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Terrifying big spiders soon in the DMV? Meet the Jorō Spider, Trichonephila clavata, and its cousin the Golden Silk Spider, Trichonephila clavipes - Make it stand out People ask, “How will I recognize the Jorō spider?” The large web and striking color patterns of this very large spider make it pretty easy to identify. Image credit: Mary Nouri https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/686bbf99-4d0a-455a-9355-d647e0cdf336/Joro_SarahMorgan+%281%29+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Terrifying big spiders soon in the DMV? Meet the Jorō Spider, Trichonephila clavata, and its cousin the Golden Silk Spider, Trichonephila clavipes - Make it stand out The underside of the Jorō spider has striking red markings. Image credit: Sarah Morgan https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/3/6/some-great-news-for-western-migratory-monarch-butterflies-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2022-03-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/66736006-81dc-4171-8bfb-b9c47ccfd2bf/monarchmale+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Some great news for western migratory Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Some good news as western monarch butterflies make a comeback in the winter of 2021-2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/68e74503-23a2-4ea9-9370-8d2d7c0101c2/monarchsign+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Some great news for western migratory Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out In the winter of 2021-2022 the Monarch Sanctuary in Pacific Grove had an encouraging complement of 10,000 overwintering monarchs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/2/28/a-different-stink-bug-on-the-move-in-the-kitchen-four-humped-stink-bug-brochymena-quadripustulata monthly 0.5 2022-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ef72d78a-8af9-4075-b2b4-80ea14f5319a/brochy2022+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - A different stink bug on the move in the kitchen: four-humped stink bug, Brochymena quadripustulata - Make it stand out Stink bugs like this four-humped stink bug may enter homes with firewood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c4ae9505-40a0-4c3b-ba3c-a4ccca065e83/twostinkbugs+copyAdj.jpg Current Issue - A different stink bug on the move in the kitchen: four-humped stink bug, Brochymena quadripustulata - Make it stand out To differentiate four-humped stink bugs (left) from brown marmorated stink bugs (insert right) look at the shoulders. Four-humped stink bugs have spiny shoulders while shoulders of brown marmorated stink bugs lack spines. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/2/21/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-worlds-largest-walking-stick-visits-the-goddard-space-flight-center-northern-walkingstick-diapheromera-fermorata monthly 0.5 2022-02-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/abdbec9c-3d72-4fcf-9262-86bef9fc6875/big_bug+%282%29+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag: World’s largest walking stick visits the Goddard Space Flight Center, Northern walkingstick, Diapheromera fermorata - Make it stand out A very large walkingstick appears to rest on the wall of a NASA building at the Goddard Space Flight Center near Washington, D.C. Image credit: Larry Coy https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/2/14/surprise-visit-by-a-queen-german-yellowjacket-vespula-germanica monthly 0.5 2022-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/2eaf3636-2025-4875-b8f2-9012a56b29b0/Gremanyellowjacketqueen+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Surprise visit by a queen: German yellowjacket, Vespula germanica - Make it stand out This docile German yellowjacket queen made an early appearance inside a home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/2/7/destinations-piedras-blancas-national-park-costa-rica-and-a-backyard-in-columbia-maryland-sand-wasps-crabronidae monthly 0.5 2022-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b8fdfbbd-8c41-4391-b289-4dab6b052be0/fourlinedsbhunter+copy1115.jpg Current Issue - Destinations: Piedras Blancas National Park, Costa Rica and a backyard in Columbia, Maryland: Sand wasps – Crabronidae - Make it stand out Last summer a four-lined-stink bug hunter prepared to dig a burrow in the ground where a sand box once rested. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/1/31/barking-up-the-right-tree-for-the-eyed-elater-alaus-oculatus monthly 0.5 2022-01-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/72562310-6c73-439d-8623-8869ca1f1925/eyedelaterlarvaadult+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Barking up the right tree for the eyed elater, Alaus oculatus - Make it stand out Guess which one is a maniacal predator ravaging prey in the stygian world beneath the bark of fallen trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bc4c4b3b-592f-4fb8-95d6-20708e5877b1/eyedelaterpair+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Barking up the right tree for the eyed elater, Alaus oculatus - Make it stand out A mating pair of eyed elaters greet a predator or camera with four spooky eyes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/069b3835-cef8-4c3e-95a6-0c3d4c052ccd/clickspines+copy+3_2000.jpg Current Issue - Barking up the right tree for the eyed elater, Alaus oculatus - Make it stand out The peg on the underside of the click beetle is part of the remarkable system which propels the beetle into the air with an audible click. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/1/24/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-non-native-mantids-the-european-mantis-mantis-religiosa-and-chinese-mantis-tenodera-sinensis-enjoying-north-american-cuisine monthly 0.5 2022-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/66c80447-42b6-4541-8aad-7f11a74ec92a/larsonmantis2+copy1764.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Non-native mantids, the European mantis, Mantis religiosa, and Chinese mantis, Tenodera sinensis, enjoying North American cuisine - Make it stand out A small black spot often with a white center, on the inside of each front leg, provides a quick clue used to separate the European mantis from other species found in our region. Image credit: Bjorn Larson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6c6279d9-318a-4526-92b3-d2315b26eaee/mrpreg+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Non-native mantids, the European mantis, Mantis religiosa, and Chinese mantis, Tenodera sinensis, enjoying North American cuisine - Make it stand out European mantises vary in color with shades of green, brown, and sometimes bluish-green like this very pregnant beauty collected in Massachusetts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7f9ca0c1-8974-4235-9599-619116a3dd13/mrootheca+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Non-native mantids, the European mantis, Mantis religiosa, and Chinese mantis, Tenodera sinensis, enjoying North American cuisine - Make it stand out This brown egg case, or ootheca, deposited by the lovely blue-green European mantis featured above contains scores of eggs that will survive the winter and hatch next spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/1/17/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-daddy-longlegs-the-most-venomous-of-all-spiders-opilionids-and-pholcid-spiders monthly 0.5 2022-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b45009a5-079d-46c6-b397-d740cac2bfcd/daddylong666+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Daddy-longlegs, the most venomous of all spiders? Opilionids and Pholcid spiders - Make it stand out One look at this arthropod and it’s easy to see why they are called daddy-longlegs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9cc140a1-d79c-4c76-9df5-7bf57217693d/cobby1+copyUpsidedown2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Daddy-longlegs, the most venomous of all spiders? Opilionids and Pholcid spiders - Make it stand out Pholcid spiders, like this cellar spider, are also known as daddy-longlegs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/53fcaf6b-01db-4e27-910c-96295aff81fd/cranefly+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Daddy-longlegs, the most venomous of all spiders? Opilionids and Pholcid spiders - Make it stand out With remarkably long legs, some crane flies are also called daddy-longlegs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/1/10/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-winter-storm-limbs-down-power-out-blame-the-cicadas monthly 0.5 2022-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/752ee453-942e-414a-b334-c623f8f09c9e/1cicadatree+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Winter storm, limbs down, power out - blame the cicadas? - Make it stand out Can heavy snow and cicada damage from last summer bring down limbs and damage transmission lines? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/73c7f4f8-5e22-4f53-a080-3e6e51f20610/ddownbranches+copy1168.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Winter storm, limbs down, power out - blame the cicadas? - Make it stand out Small branches favored by cicadas for egg-laying are the ones that normally break-off and litter the ground beneath trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bc112e31-d71a-42e5-914c-9073c6a5ddf0/sweetgumbranches+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Winter storm, limbs down, power out - blame the cicadas? - Make it stand out These flagging branches on a sweet gum tree are the ones that eventually fell from trees as a result of cicada damage last summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f5be9325-e437-4037-9419-c749164d9af3/cicadabranch+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week Mailbag: Winter storm, limbs down, power out - blame the cicadas? - Make it stand out This branch with cicada damage survived the snowstorm unscathed. Had it broken where the cicada damage was nearest to the trunk, the broken branch would have been about two feet long. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2022/1/3/from-the-bug-of-the-week-mailbag-termites-or-ants-eastern-subterranean-termites-reticulitermes-flavipes-or-citronella-ants-lasius-sp monthly 0.5 2022-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/4740df68-e370-40e4-9788-63cc1e6e7c7b/antid+copy_adj2000.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag, termites or ants? Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes, or Citronella ants, Lasius sp. - Make it stand out Ant or termite? Here’s how to tell. Elbowed antennae, a narrow waist, and forewings and hind wings that differ in size with a few strong veins are the hallmarks of ants, like these citronella ants that swarm each December at my home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/477cdd6d-ec40-4b78-90ac-389fe033c2e4/termiteid+copy_1439.jpg Current Issue - From the Bug of the Week mailbag, termites or ants? Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes, or Citronella ants, Lasius sp. - Make it stand out Antennae of termites lack an elbow and look like a string of beads. Their abdomen and thorax are broadly joined, and forewings and hindwings are similar in size and shape, with few veins. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/12/20/heliconiids-for-the-holidays-longwinged-butterflies-heliconiidae monthly 0.5 2021-12-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/59eac4f6-eb44-4ba3-a396-080f64773438/1Julia+heliconid1500_DSC_0281+copy.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out In parts of peninsular Florida and southern Texas, pretty Julia Heliconians brighten days year-round. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/c82bc3d8-4d5b-449b-84c4-2fa0916a0c50/2pollengrains_MJR_+copy.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out Heliconiids extract nutrients from pollen grains held in their proboscis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/98547997-f8fe-4546-aab5-671f2ba685c5/3Passion+flower_DSC_0235+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out Passion vines sport magnificent blossoms and their leaves are food for heliconiid caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e80342e4-56c1-44c1-a1ab-42be93e01207/4bandedorange+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out Common in Central and South America, the Banded Orange Heliconian can sometimes be seen visiting Florida and Texas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bbed62d9-0a07-4f8b-aca2-33915f7d5aa1/5Passion+leaf_DSC_0218+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out Do these structures on the leaves of passion vines resemble eggs of longwing butterflies to discourage female longwings from depositing eggs on the leaf? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/08258b62-24af-457a-a657-601d18f07374/Cicada+santas.jpg Current Issue - Heliconiids for the holidays: Longwinged butterflies, Heliconiinae - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/12/13/twas-two-weeks-before-christmas-giant-bark-aphids-longistigma-caryae-and-giant-willow-aphids-tuberolachnus-salignus monthly 0.5 2021-12-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/6f9beb5a-83fa-4ef1-a4da-030989100969/1giantaphidclose2+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas two weeks before Christmas – Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out Some adult giant bark aphids have wings and others do not. These are the largest aphids in North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/f358ba4b-8ba5-4ce7-adee-b1cd9b089ca3/giantbarkaphidscarr+copy1200.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas two weeks before Christmas – Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out On the branch of a beautiful oak tree, giant bark aphids are tended by ants. This classic mutualism, with ants protecting aphids from predators and parasites and in return receiving honeydew from aphids, is a partnership found in several countries around the world. Image credit: Catherine Carr https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/91ca0384-2544-4432-aa8c-35bc01573b42/giantwillow5+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas two weeks before Christmas – Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out In this colony of giant willow aphids, the large female on the upper left portion of the branch is giving birth to a daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9c709a3d-f138-4f56-b371-754a9809e07f/giantbarkaphidandeggs2+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas two weeks before Christmas – Giant bark aphids, Longistigma caryae and giant willow aphids, Tuberolachnus salignus - Make it stand out Eggs of the giant bark aphid are the overwintering stage. They line small branches by the thousands and change from amber to black as they age. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/12/6/holiday-spiders-help-make-the-season-bright-jumping-spiders-salticidae-and-orb-weavers-araneidae monthly 0.5 2021-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d4fd420e-b76b-4b02-86cc-28e9300ab637/1saltcal3+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Holiday spiders help make the season bright: Jumping spiders, Salticidae and orb weavers, Araneidae - Make it stand out Several giant eyes help the red-backed jumping spider track its prey. Dazzling green fangs ensure prey don’t escape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/05aaf079-63b3-4a17-9d54-fe38dd239492/4DSC_0131+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Holiday spiders help make the season bright: Jumping spiders, Salticidae and orb weavers, Araneidae - Make it stand out Spider egg sacs like these of the Basilica spider on holly sometimes inadvertently enter homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/22f54214-1976-41a5-95e6-97ecb2f04901/3dewonweb+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Holiday spiders help make the season bright: Jumping spiders, Salticidae and orb weavers, Araneidae - Make it stand out When morning dew glistens on silken strands, it's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/bdd9fb2f-410c-4e65-8eaf-6c1f7571cd27/2eggsac+copy1024.jpg Current Issue - Holiday spiders help make the season bright: Jumping spiders, Salticidae and orb weavers, Araneidae - Make it stand out In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and bring a holiday surprise on Christmas morning. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/11/29/winter-mild-or-wild-ask-the-banded-woolly-bear-pyrrharctia-isabella monthly 0.5 2021-11-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/b2eefb6c-2955-4b09-89a1-a9e07842bd00/DSC_0119+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Winter mild or wild? Ask the banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia isabella - Make it stand out How do woolly bear caterpillars predict winter weather and survive winter’s chill? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9add2187-6331-41a3-bfe4-fb058c26c11b/IsabellatigerKarinB+copy1400.jpg Current Issue - Winter mild or wild? Ask the banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia isabella - Make it stand out The banded woolly bear turns into the pretty Isabella tiger moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/777549b1-e815-4cb7-8b03-2aae9fbe5f3d/woollybear2021+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Winter mild or wild? Ask the banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia isabella - Make it stand out When threatened, the woolly bear caterpillar curls into ball with a phalanx of stout, outward-facing spines which send a strong warning to would-be predators and bug geeks. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/11/22/whats-in-a-name-ladybug-lady-beetle-lady-bird-beetle-meet-the-home-invading-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-harmonia-axyridis monthly 0.5 2022-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/05b4622c-46db-4d21-b1a0-80eb6659fc43/1harmoniaM+copy.jpg Current Issue - What’s in a name? Ladybug, lady beetle, lady bird beetle – meet the home invading Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis - Make it stand out Just behind the beetle’s head, black markings form the letter M on Harmonia axyridis. This clue helps distinguish the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle from other species of lady beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d1084fda-03ae-4a86-9beb-cf2dac1cab33/2harmoniaeggsbark2+copy.jpg Current Issue - What’s in a name? Ladybug, lady beetle, lady bird beetle – meet the home invading Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis - Make it stand out During her lifetime, a single female lady beetle may lay hundreds of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/886b780e-4f8d-41a7-acac-68176f92b9ae/3image-asset+copy_1390.jpg Current Issue - What’s in a name? Ladybug, lady beetle, lady bird beetle – meet the home invading Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis - Make it stand out Not all coccinellids are predators. The Mexican been beetle is an herbivore, but like its predatory relatives it secretes potent chemical defenses from its joints to ward-off predators. These bitter, stinky secretions can stain skin or fabrics. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/d88d570e-21f2-463e-94af-b52e9d2bdec0/4harmoniaandbmsb2+copy_Filter82.jpg Current Issue - What’s in a name? Ladybug, lady beetle, lady bird beetle – meet the home invading Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis - Make it stand out In autumn and throughout the winter, Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles and Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs find refuge in protected locations like attics. Many will not survive until spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/11/15/nasty-scale-insects-spell-trouble-for-american-beech-trees-beech-bark-scale-cryptococcus-fagisuga monthly 0.5 2021-11-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/7af5ca1e-849b-4df4-a054-39e07865a101/beechbarkscale3+copy+2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Nasty scale insects spell trouble for American beech trees: Beech bark scale, Cryptococcus fagisuga - Make it stand out Uh oh, fluffy white wax on the trunk spell trouble for American beech trees infested with beech bark scales. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/9b1515d0-d566-40cf-9fbc-6c99d8d51e95/bbddistribution.jpg Current Issue - Nasty scale insects spell trouble for American beech trees: Beech bark scale, Cryptococcus fagisuga - Make it stand out Beech bark disease continues its march across eastern North America from its introduction to Nova Scotia more than a century ago. Photo credit: USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station and Forest Health Protection. “Alien Forest Pest Explorer - species map.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/ed37d905-f28c-42d1-8817-d96aadead849/twicestabbbed+copy1000.jpg Current Issue - Nasty scale insects spell trouble for American beech trees: Beech bark scale, Cryptococcus fagisuga - Make it stand out Not really stabbed twice, but it’s easy to see how the twice-stabbed lady beetle gets her name. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/11/8/bugs-better-beware-of-feisty-feather-legged-flies-trichopoda-pennipes monthly 0.5 2021-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/5dfb5e5b-7d81-4c99-ac9d-065b4322cabd/Trichopoda1+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs better beware of feisty feather-legged flies, Trichopoda pennipes - Make it stand out Notice the feather-like hairs on the hind legs of the feather-legged fly, a native ally in the fight against brown marmorated stink bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/a653068e-7030-4be4-b821-26f131194bd6/leaffootedtachinid+copyAdj.jpg Current Issue - Bugs better beware of feisty feather-legged flies, Trichopoda pennipes - Make it stand out Uh oh, with three tachinid eggs stuck just behind its head, this leaffooted bug is doomed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/11/1/honeydew-for-honey-bees-spotted-lanternflies-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2021-11-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1635772254389-XYAQ85HCP2C3S3AIHTJ7/honeybeelanternfly2+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Honeydew for honey bees? Spotted lanternflies, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out This little honeybee seems to know exactly where the honeydew will appear. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/10/25/just-in-time-for-halloween-spooky-spiders-invading-homes-wolf-spiders-lycosidae monthly 0.5 2021-10-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/cdd3c104-4260-40f6-92f2-578211c42a4a/wolf6+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, spooky spiders invading homes! Wolf spiders, Lycosidae - Make it stand out In a basement room, a mother wolf spider carries dozens of spiderlings on her back until they are old enough to fend for themselves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/81fe4005-e9f9-4542-b878-e12006c3b833/wolfandegg2+copy1683.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, spooky spiders invading homes! Wolf spiders, Lycosidae - Make it stand out Beautiful wolf spiders tote their egg cases to reduce chances of their young falling victim to predators or parasitoids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/e8b5b1b3-346d-4990-909c-c2407f4ea141/spiderhouse+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, spooky spiders invading homes! Wolf spiders, Lycosidae - Make it stand out Spiders and their webs get really big the week before Halloween. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/10/18/whats-all-this-chirping-about-ask-the-fall-field-cricket-gryllus-pennsylvanicus monthly 0.5 2025-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1634562083198-KQBE0AXXZKZ7XMB7EOUY/crick3+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - What’s all this chirping about? Ask the fall field cricket, Gryllus pennsylvanicus - Make it stand out While some home invaders are unwelcomed guests, the annual visit by field crickets always provides a bit of alright. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1634562640708-V2AX2Z7FTF64E1M9AKE2/filescraper+copy+2_2000.jpg Current Issue - What’s all this chirping about? Ask the fall field cricket, Gryllus pennsylvanicus - Make it stand out Melodious male crickets bear a multi-ridged structure called the file on one forewing. The opposite forewing bears a hardened structure called the scraper. As wings open and close, the file moves across the scraper creating vibrations, chirps, that resonate from the cricket’s wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/10/11/lace-bugs-help-put-the-sick-in-sycamore-sycamore-lace-bug-corythucha-ciliata monthly 0.5 2021-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1633956784234-1UB3T5JXWDFKDA3JKMW5/syclb1+copy1429.jpg Current Issue - Lace bugs help put the “sick” in sycamore: Sycamore lace bug, Corythucha ciliata - Make it stand out A beautiful sycamore lace bug seems to stand guard near her recently laid clutch of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1633957065935-0IO3S5EEY5DIBUV1M865/DSC_4973+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Lace bugs help put the “sick” in sycamore: Sycamore lace bug, Corythucha ciliata - Make it stand out Oh my, hundreds of sycamore lace bug feeding punctures on the bottom of a leaf translate into a galaxy of white stipples on the upper surface of a leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1633957003531-JZJ2JJARZKAKMY1MQAFJ/sycwithlacebug+copy2000.jpg Current Issue - Lace bugs help put the “sick” in sycamore: Sycamore lace bug, Corythucha ciliata - Make it stand out Sycamores looking a little yellow and sick? Could be the mischief of sycamore lace bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/10/4/beware-of-zesty-drinks-yellowjackets-vespula-bumble-bees-bombus-and-honey-bees-apis-can-really-spice-up-soft-drinks monthly 0.5 2021-10-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1633353961471-IOL8EXBV0B8S0O6WL50Z/yellowjacketsoda2+copy1194.jpg Current Issue - Beware of zesty drinks! Yellowjackets, Vespula, bumble bees, Bombus, carpenter bees, Xylocopa, and honey bees, Apis, can really spice up soft drinks - Make it stand out Uh oh, better check that soda can to see if a zesty surprise awaits inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1633354202868-6TILGXO1LAYUS36T3XJP/yellowj2+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Beware of zesty drinks! Yellowjackets, Vespula, bumble bees, Bombus, carpenter bees, Xylocopa, and honey bees, Apis, can really spice up soft drinks - Make it stand out Apple sauce in a cup is an irresistible source of sugar for a yellow jacket in autumn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/9/27/mallow-munchers-mallow-sawfly-aka-hibiscus-sawfly-atomacera-decepta monthly 0.5 2021-09-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1632747445426-HIMVSG8ZNMKXPCFFG4DP/Hibiscus_2000.jpg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, a.k.a. Hibiscus sawfly, Atomacera decepta - Make it stand out Beautiful hibiscuses are wonderful native plants for raingardens and important sources of nectar and pollen for many beneficial insects. However, sneaky mallow sawfly larvae can reduce leaves to tatters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1632747558017-I80T698647QZC318J92O/mallowsawflylarva+copy1500.jpg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, a.k.a. Hibiscus sawfly, Atomacera decepta - Make it stand out Stout spines adorn the back of the mallow sawfly larva. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1632747779933-TWK7I4IHWRLVZC42A0WI/mallowsawflyadult+copy_1570.jpg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, a.k.a. Hibiscus sawfly, Atomacera decepta - Make it stand out Female mallow sawflies are striking insects with dark wings and a vivid orange thorax. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/9/20/minstrels-of-the-meadow-short-winged-meadow-katydid-conocephalus-brevipennis monthly 0.5 2021-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1632141434593-C60WMS9SOQC7RU13NJE9/short-wingedkaty2000.jpg Current Issue - Minstrels of the meadow: Short-winged meadow katydid, Conocephalus brevipennis - Make it stand out Female katydids are easily distinguished from males by their egg-laying appendage, the ovipositor, on their rear end. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/9/13/coming-soon-to-your-neighborhood-spotted-lanternfly-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2021-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1631537501588-3KRIMNSP6IDU2UKZUWEC/lanternflyfemale1500.jpg Current Issue - Coming soon to your neighborhood? Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out Like thousands of her kin in the eastern half of the United States, this very pregnant female lanternfly rests on the bark of a tree before depositing a bumper crop of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1631551082469-4E319ON3GZ6WWFSCCO9C/countiesinfested20202021+copy.jpg Current Issue - Coming soon to your neighborhood? Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out In the DMV and nearby states, the number of counties infested with spotted lanternfly has increased dramatically in the past year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1631551211495-5VUUFB6BL2P8T02OTNW0/SLFmap2021+copy.jpg Current Issue - Coming soon to your neighborhood? Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula - Make it stand out This map shows the rapidly expanding number of counties reporting infestations of spotted lanternflies (blue counties). Internal state quarantines are outlined in red, and counties with isolated detections have a small purple dot. Map courtesy of Brian Eshenaur and the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program (NYS IPM). https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/9/6/large-scary-hornets-stripping-bark-from-trees-eating-fruit-and-going-bump-in-the-night-european-hornet-vespa-crabro monthly 0.5 2021-09-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1630934169281-3J6TBZ1EWSMB0KWHL69T/ehornetfeast1500.jpg Current Issue - Large, scary hornets stripping bark from trees, eating fruit, and going “bump in the night”: European hornet, Vespa crabro - Make it stand out European hornets and other stinging insects are often found dining on fallen fruit beneath trees. Be careful near fruit trees during late summer and autumn when fruit is on the ground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1630934217838-FAXPQ6MPI3EYLITX9HJ1/Asiangiant%2Band%2BEuropean.jpg Current Issue - Large, scary hornets stripping bark from trees, eating fruit, and going “bump in the night”: European hornet, Vespa crabro - Make it stand out European hornets are sometimes mistaken to be Asian giant hornets, a.k.a. murder hornets. This side-by-side comparison will help you to distinguish between the two. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1630934323379-45DDVAGXQ94GK3K27DKB/europeanhorn1500.jpg Current Issue - Large, scary hornets stripping bark from trees, eating fruit, and going “bump in the night”: European hornet, Vespa crabro - Make it stand out This large European hornet nest came from a wall void in my neighbor’s home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/8/30/how-a-cool-creepy-insect-warms-up-eastern-dobsonfly-corydalus-cornutus monthly 0.5 2021-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1630329628317-TCRJBM1YEKPAV54BU9I4/femaledobson2021_MR_2900.jpg Current Issue - How a cool creepy insect warms up: Eastern Dobsonfly, Corydalus cornutus - Make it stand out Large and a little creepy, dobsonflies are among the largest insects found in the DMV. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1630329715733-8JSPSD0HAXHXOPV2OT55/maledobsonfly970_nolanjenkins.jpg Current Issue - How a cool creepy insect warms up: Eastern Dobsonfly, Corydalus cornutus - Make it stand out Extremely long mandibles of male dobsonflies are used to battle rivals. Photo credit: Nolan Jenkins https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/8/23/monarchs-arrive-for-their-annual-visit-but-for-how-much-longer-monarch-butterfly-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2021-08-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629723909870-OKO8JW8Y09O7PG23UXRQ/monarch2021_2000.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs arrive for their annual visit, but for how much longer? Monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out How much longer will beautiful monarchs visit our gardens and landscapes? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629724172428-EP605RWOQ80KF9QNM7U3/monarchpines1500.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs arrive for their annual visit, but for how much longer? Monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out In 2014 thousands of monarchs festooned branches of Monterey pines in the sanctuary at Pacific Grove. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629724383857-9NN1THZW1H2PIM0IS4EC/RSEastern_migratory_Monarch_Overwintering_Population_Center_FPWC-hpr.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs arrive for their annual visit, but for how much longer? Monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out Dramatic declines in overwintering populations of monarchs in Mexico portends a gloomy fate for Eastern Monarchs unless this trend can be reversed. Graph credit: Center for Biological Diversity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629724535175-YRE1Z448VCQAH3ISPFUH/westernmonarch.jpg Current Issue - Monarchs arrive for their annual visit, but for how much longer? Monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus - Make it stand out In the winter of 2020 2021, Western Monarch Populations dipped below the extinction threshold. Graph credit: Center for Biological Diversity. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/8/16/zebras-along-the-potomac-zebra-swallowtail-butterflies-protographium-marcellus monthly 0.5 2021-08-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629118664089-WP3VMS4URY4FB8YATF2R/DSC_0786_1500.jpg Current Issue - Zebras along the Potomac: Zebra swallowtail butterflies, Protographium marcellus - Make it stand out Zebra swallowtails consume carbohydrate rich nectar to power their search for pawpaws, the food for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1629118764129-WYSGMEZQW4JIIGAZAPXR/pawpaw3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Zebras along the Potomac: Zebra swallowtail butterflies, Protographium marcellus - Make it stand out Along the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers in the DMV, delicious pawpaws are almost ripe. Pawpaw is one of the largest edible fruit produced by any native North American tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/8/9/bird-droppings-nope-clever-moths-and-caterpillars-looking-like-poop-beautiful-wood-nymph-eastern-tiger-swallowtail-black-swallowtail-red-spotted-purple monthly 0.5 2021-08-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1628512642226-EM0UDGWIIOMVVK5W04GN/beautifulwoodnymph_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Bird droppings? Nope, clever moths and caterpillars looking like poop: Beautiful wood-nymph, Eastern tiger swallowtail, Black swallowtail, Red-spotted purple - Make it stand out At first glance the beautiful wood-nymph moth looks like a rather large and ornate bird dropping. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1628512875418-4G3IDELVOZ2RTKPM0HYC/giantswallowtailcat_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Bird droppings? Nope, clever moths and caterpillars looking like poop: Beautiful wood-nymph, Eastern tiger swallowtail, Black swallowtail, Red-spotted purple - Make it stand out Freshly deposited bird dropping or giant swallowtail caterpillar? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/7/26/greet-the-class-of-2038-as-periodical-cicadas-hatch-in-the-dmv-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1627303345637-MMDUD25JEA6ZPR33RZHI/CicadaEggs_eyes2_Cool+adj_PShrewsbury_UMD.jpg Current Issue - Greet the class of 2038 as periodical cicadas hatch in the DMV: Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out When the eyes of cicada embryos turn brilliant red and are easily seen through the egg shell, egg-hatch is imminent. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1627303611545-IGUB3JAI3TPBZZU9E3FT/eggnests1500.jpg Current Issue - Greet the class of 2038 as periodical cicadas hatch in the DMV: Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1627303680353-H7X76VAQQJEERC2VPJCP/treewithdamage1500.jpg Current Issue - Greet the class of 2038 as periodical cicadas hatch in the DMV: Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out If you stand beneath trees with scores of flagging branches, the sure sign of legions of cicadas about to hatch, will you be treated to a cicada shower? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1627303843503-5N21XF4GKGKCZU18CAO8/lincolncicada1500_underwater.jpg Current Issue - Greet the class of 2038 as periodical cicadas hatch in the DMV: Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out President Lincoln sees just how small cicada hatchlings really are. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/7/16/false-milkweed-bug-aka-false-sunflower-bug-lygaeus-turcicus monthly 0.5 2021-07-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1626446866775-Q58ZDDJW08JKWH5FZJAM/1falsemilkweedbug1500.jpg Current Issue - False Milkweed Bug, a.k.a. False Sunflower bug: Lygaeus turcicus - Make it stand out False milkweed bugs truly had me fooled the first time I saw them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1626447108525-ZL3KBPZYDKYPPCNNIFM9/2smallmilkweed1500.jpg Current Issue - False Milkweed Bug, a.k.a. False Sunflower bug: Lygaeus turcicus - Make it stand out See if you can tell the difference between this small milkweed bug and the false milkweed bug above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1626452052953-5Y46U35RAWRLB3TE8NY2/3oxeye1500.jpg Current Issue - False Milkweed Bug, a.k.a. False Sunflower bug: Lygaeus turcicus - Make it stand out Oxeyes are a spectacular native attractor of beneficial insects and a great place to lose yourself with bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/7/12/squash-and-squash-squash-bugs-anasa-tristis monthly 0.5 2021-07-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1626094358743-GBJU8MQM6KKSM73IV9QW/squashadult1500.jpg Current Issue - Squash and squash: Squash bugs, Anasa tristis - Make it stand out Rascally squash bugs can make a mess of your cucurbits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1626094596075-0NEJ554TREIPKPWZ03IU/floatingrowcover1500.jpg Current Issue - Squash and squash: Squash bugs, Anasa tristis - Make it stand out Floating row covers placed early in the season may help keep squash bugs and other insects from infesting your crops. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/7/5/sweet-times-for-sweat-bees-sweat-bees-halictus-ligatus-and-agapostemon-virescens monthly 0.5 2021-07-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1625489933894-BV3VI30BJ51JF3MDNFEV/greenhaictid1500B.jpg Current Issue - Sweet times for sweat bees: Sweat bees, Halictus ligatus and Agapostemon virescens - Make it stand out To enjoy beautiful native bees like Agapostemon, why not plant some cone flowers? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1625490356139-2DYNHHWFBBN7IYTZ7PUX/coneflowers1500.jpg Current Issue - Sweet times for sweat bees: Sweat bees, Halictus ligatus and Agapostemon virescens - Make it stand out This patch of Echinacea attracts hundreds of pollinators daily from sunrise to sunset. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/6/28/chemical-engineers-recycling-forest-matter-millipedes-diplopoda monthly 0.5 2021-06-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1624889762306-2YUA9YI4K4Z7CKNUS2R2/pinkandyellow2_1500MS.jpg Current Issue - Chemical engineers recycling forest matter: Millipedes, Diplopoda - Make it stand out When disturbed this beautiful millipede smells like almonds, but beware because it also releases other noxious compounds to defend itself. Photo credit: Maggie Shuttlesworth https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/6/21/auf-wiedersehen-brood-x-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-06-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1624269654210-B39V0DAGW3TYKU953COJ/girlswithcicadas1500.jpg Current Issue - Auf wiedersehen Brood X: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out For millions of youngsters and not-so-youngsters, periodical cicadas are a source of fascination and fun, a chance to learn about the wonders of insects and the natural world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1624269919997-PDS2K7RKB6GZNBXGRVZU/wings1500.jpg Current Issue - Auf wiedersehen Brood X: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Cicada wings serve as a reminder of the bountiful feast courtesy of Brood X. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/6/14/egg-laying-and-the-dark-side-of-cicadas-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-06-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623674191087-609LYINRU8MP4VWCFZPI/eggsmjr_Filter80.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying and the dark side of cicadas: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Newly laid cicada eggs deposited in egg nests will hatch in July and August, enter the earth, and reappear as Brood X in 2038. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623674370642-WF5ZIWF3CYIS3IWTT9U3/eggslitsclosemjr_filtered.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying and the dark side of cicadas: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out The egg-laying appendage of the cicada, called an ovipositor, slits tender branches to create egg nests that serve as the nursery for developing eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623674504739-0MVAA6IRUQ6A3YN9GM2H/whip3_adj.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying and the dark side of cicadas: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Older, established trees will shrug-off injury caused by egg-laying cicadas with no long term negative effects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623674650763-7XEQF54DWN7FWQ2U2Y3T/damagesmalltree1500.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying and the dark side of cicadas: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Young, recently planted trees may sustain heavy damage where cicadas are abundant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/6/7/fly-feed-pee-cicadas-magicicada-species monthly 0.5 2021-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623070365772-52MWG9GTRM5IPZHZ0VM9/cicadapee1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Fly, feed, pee: Cicadas, Magicicada species - Make it stand out A droplet of “pee” accumulates just before dropping from the rear-end of a cicada. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1623070529784-JL7HSXPTHU50F84ASEIA/Cicada+headlight1500.jpg Current Issue - Fly, feed, pee: Cicadas, Magicicada species - Make it stand out For many flying cicadas, the journey ends on the windshield or headlight of a car. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/5/31/an-std-in-cicada-land-has-cicadas-behaving-strangely-magicicada-spp-and-massospora-cicadina monthly 0.5 2021-05-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1622465707515-RZXRQD4ZJNIKV4D1AK97/massasporamjr1500.jpg Current Issue - An STD in cicada land has cicadas behaving strangely: Magicicada spp. and Massospora cicadina - Make it stand out Massospora turns the cicada’s abdomen into a fungus garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1622465903842-23QD813MH8FMSSJKW6PD/massosporaabdogone1500.jpg Current Issue - An STD in cicada land has cicadas behaving strangely: Magicicada spp. and Massospora cicadina - Make it stand out Cicadas wandering about with hollow abdomens missing abdominal segments are hallmarks of the fungal infection. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/5/24/teenagers-rockin-in-the-treetops-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-05-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1621862582271-FNR49EE4UP6GXZ527V32/matingmjr.jpg Current Issue - Teenagers rockin’ in the treetops: Cicadas, Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out On pretty spring days over the next several weeks throughout the eastern half of the United States, mating pairs of periodical cicadas will be a common scene. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/5/17/its-a-hard-knock-life-for-periodical-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1621255773481-8DVJQJNRAL9V205HAF17/malestuckinmolt1500.jpg Current Issue - It’s a hard knock life for periodical cicadas – Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Many cicadas fail their final molt and die, cutting short a 17 year marathon within sight of the finish line. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1621256056634-MVW0ZB9XE0H8OGCP4MBH/cicadacolumbine1500_square.jpg Current Issue - It’s a hard knock life for periodical cicadas – Magicicada spp. - Make it stand out Do cicadas really grow on plants? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/5/9/just-a-trickle-not-a-flood-so-when-will-the-main-event-happen-and-how-do-you-tell-the-guys-from-the-gals-periodical-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-05-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620586107154-X75KYI1TSJU69R5ES9ZR/shedskins2_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Just a trickle, not a flood, so when will the main event happen? And how do you tell the guys from the gals? Periodical Cicadas, Magicicada spp. Shed skins beneath a tree are the sure sign of adult cicadas in the treetop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620586510222-PMFT19QDGWNCE6JM9SUN/malenymph_1500.jpg Current Issue - Just a trickle, not a flood, so when will the main event happen? And how do you tell the guys from the gals? Periodical Cicadas, Magicicada spp. When viewed from beneath, male cicada nymphs have a small bump near the tip of their abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620586802994-JSOLUQQFYPZGL3SACGYK/femalenymph_1500.jpg Current Issue - Just a trickle, not a flood, so when will the main event happen? And how do you tell the guys from the gals? Periodical Cicadas, Magicicada spp. When viewed from beneath, female cicada nymphs have two dark triangular structures along the midline of the body near the tip of the abdomen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/5/3/periodical-cicadas-come-to-the-university-of-maryland-will-there-be-a-reward-for-finding-blue-eyed-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620046384793-Y0OIS5H0PCZUNJGPROJ7/blueyemjr.jpg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas come to the University of Maryland - will there be a reward for finding blue-eyed cicadas? Magicicada spp. Just what is the reward for finding a blue eyed cicada? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620046592971-CW6SU6862UBYQ8S07KIC/cicadaemergevirginia1500.jpg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas come to the University of Maryland - will there be a reward for finding blue-eyed cicadas? Magicicada spp. A beautiful Brood X cicada sheds its exoskeleton on an ancient oak tree at the University of Maryland, College Park. Photo credit: Virginia Borda https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1620046696788-ZJMLM4QQYW0HUWX25UNJ/eyecolorsmjr._1500lightened.jpg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas come to the University of Maryland - will there be a reward for finding blue-eyed cicadas? Magicicada spp. Orange, white, and vermillion are other eye color variants seen in periodical cicadas. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/4/26/life-underground-and-the-vanguard-arrives-hail-brood-x-2021-in-maryland-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-04-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1619440892865-L2743QRQEXDS94V07Q72/Tano+Arrogancia2021_1500.jpg Current Issue - Life underground and the vanguard arrives, Hail Brood X, 2021 in Maryland! Magicicada spp. The vanguard of Brood X periodical cicadas seen on a garden fence in Towson, Maryland last week serves notice that the main event is just a few weeks away. Photo credit: Tano Arrogancia https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1619441355798-HPBAPKMFTPG9RLO2V8U3/Rockville+42621+CicadaSafari_adj.jpg Current Issue - Life underground and the vanguard arrives, Hail Brood X, 2021 in Maryland! Magicicada spp. This early riser also appeared last week in Rockville, Maryland after emerging from a flower pot of soil brought indoors for a couple of days. Indoor temperatures likely hastened its emergence from the soil. Photo credit: Cicada Safari https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1619441419801-SVUN1KKAO31V3XRHF1XK/Cicadaemergence.jpg Current Issue - Life underground and the vanguard arrives, Hail Brood X, 2021 in Maryland! Magicicada spp. Brood X cicadas appearing one year early in the spring of 2020 provide clues as to when cicadas will appear in 2021 in Maryland and DC. The first cicada to emerge was seen on April 19 and the last on June 14. If 2021 is anything like 2020, outliers will appear in April, but the great cicada tsunami hits the last two weeks of May. By Memorial Day weekend the cicadapalooza will be rocking the treetops here in the DMV. Graph credit: Michael J. Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/4/19/when-will-we-see-cicadas-in-the-dmv-appearance-of-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-04-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618835828210-17DX0WT9TX3UZFS5RT1O/bucket_1500.jpg Current Issue - When will we see cicadas in the DMV? Appearance of Magicicada spp. On the day of emergence, periodical cicadas will have black patches on their dorsal surface just behind their red eyes. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618836356772-2SZNP7URNYR2YP0E660N/broodXnymph1500.jpg Current Issue - When will we see cicadas in the DMV? Appearance of Magicicada spp. Almost-ready-to-emerge cicadas like this one lack dorsal black patches behind their red eyes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/4/12/holes-appear-and-the-feast-begins-animals-dining-on-periodical-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-04-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618232146000-TM4OAPGQ1NDA59X0OTYZ/1fossorialleg_1500.jpg Current Issue - Holes appear and the feast begins – Animals dining on periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. Perfectly shaped for moving soil, greatly expanded forelegs enable the mature nymph to create a pathway to the world above ground. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618232496685-ZUPYRSASF62Q2JYXYBMK/2IMG_3290Kenigsberg_1500.jpg Current Issue - Holes appear and the feast begins – Animals dining on periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. Beneath this stately old tree, a raccoon ravaged this lawn in early March. Were periodical cicadas the object of its gastronomic desire? Image credit: L. Kenigsberg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618232628960-A6EGS57M7GEPCZ5SKLCQ/3Fox_cropped_MRaupp_3_30_2021_714.jpg Current Issue - Holes appear and the feast begins – Animals dining on periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. After breakfasting on periodical nymphs beneath my holly tree, this handsome fox headed for the hills and almost escaped my camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618232820754-F8ZOZ91S8C2DJ8IZO5B7/4Cicada_Holes_UnderBricks_cropped_KJayd_4_11_2021.jpg Current Issue - Holes appear and the feast begins – Animals dining on periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. Lifting a stepping stone may reveal cicada nymphs peering out of their escape tunnels. Image credit: Kristin Jayd https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1618232980312-GJ6OGBKERTRRLW3CYJXV/5Cicada_Digging_3a_4_2021_PShrewsbury.jpg Current Issue - Holes appear and the feast begins – Animals dining on periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. Throughout the neighborhood small wild and domestic animals are feasting on Brood X, leaving behind divots in the earth. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/4/5/are-cicadas-locusts-locusta-spp-and-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-04-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1617631062390-NQ8QSS1WRWK65HZ78XXV/adultmouthparts_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Are cicadas locusts? Locusta spp. and Magicicada spp. All cicadas, including this adult periodical cicada of Brood X, have sucking mouthparts to sip liquids from vascular systems of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1617631120963-OPR5MRZG30KMQ4PCXQEQ/lubberfacemouthparts_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Are cicadas locusts? Locusta spp. and Magicicada spp. Locusts like this Floridian lubber locust are grasshoppers and have chewing mouthparts used to consume leaves and blossoms of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1617631193717-B82WCPBATPFXWNBZZ21Q/cicadanymphmouthparts_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Are cicadas locusts? Locusta spp. and Magicicada spp. Cicada nymphs live underground and also have sucking mouthparts. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/3/29/how-are-you-doing-class-of-2021-brood-x-magiciada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-06-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1617019711499-34BW7CGTYBMGYIF937FS/broodXnymph_1442.jpg Current Issue - How are you doing, Class of 2021? Brood X Magicicada spp. Peeking out from his escape tunnel, this little Brood X periodical cicada nymph will soon join billions of his brood mates above ground for a boisterous party in the treetops. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/3/22/two-beauties-doubling-down-on-defense-the-polka-dot-wasp-moth-syntomeida-epilais-and-spotted-oleander-caterpillar-moth-empyreuma-pugione monthly 0.5 2021-03-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1616417363462-83S7WAL1ULJKHL5JGZ3F/polkadotwasp1500.jpg Current Issue - Two beauties doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, Syntomeida epilais, and spotted oleander caterpillar moth, Empyreuma pugione A waspy mien, iridescent blue wings and body with white polka-dots, and a red-tipped abdomen may help the beautiful polka-dot moth escape the jaws of hungry predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1616417519546-K5XGWSGNLIQDAT2GD7G6/oleandermoth1500.jpg Current Issue - Two beauties doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, Syntomeida epilais, and spotted oleander caterpillar moth, Empyreuma pugione The beautiful spotted oleander caterpillar moth’s vivid orange and black coloration and resemblance to a wasp may be a warning to would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1616417629483-6QGKPD7CAK25N5I5X7PL/oleander1500.jpg Current Issue - Two beauties doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, Syntomeida epilais, and spotted oleander caterpillar moth, Empyreuma pugione When colonists brought oleander to the New World, this plant of Mediterranean origin became an important larval food source for the polka-dot wasp moth and spotted oleander caterpillar moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1616418144566-FR27ISORZL6KG8939DHU/oleandercaterpillar1500.jpg Current Issue - Two beauties doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, Syntomeida epilais, and spotted oleander caterpillar moth, Empyreuma pugione Oleander caterpillars have dark spots and black hair tufts lining their body. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1616418220193-KQ4ZWQQBQ3FVCNZKHQZB/spottedoleander1500.jpg Current Issue - Two beauties doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, Syntomeida epilais, and spotted oleander caterpillar moth, Empyreuma pugione Spotted oleander caterpillars have light colored spots and predominantly reddish-brown hair tufts. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/3/15/at-night-in-the-rainforest-with-scary-whip-spiders-amblypygids monthly 0.5 2021-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1615812048074-9JWU4XN66PFF1AN6QE4P/whipspiderleg2021_1500.jpg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest with scary whip spiders: Amblypygids Greatly elongated front legs enable the whip spider to sense food, mates, and danger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1615812266534-LF8OGHSYZBOOBPG0N0R3/whipspiderpedipalps2_1500.jpg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest with scary whip spiders: Amblypygids Once these spines get you, there is no escape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/3/8/destination-reserva-nacional-tambopata-peru-how-pleasing-are-rainforest-fungus-beetles-erotylidae monthly 0.5 2021-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1615212082284-QIJUM44HVTPXZF3X6L2Y/gibbifer2_1311Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Peru: How pleasing are rainforest fungus beetles, Erotylidae? Gibbifer is one genus of spectacularly beautiful pleasing fungus beetles found in the Amazonian rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1615212232413-HJ4C847A3ARESQ4ECNNI/rainforestfungi1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Peru: How pleasing are rainforest fungus beetles, Erotylidae? With no shortage of plant material as a food source and perpetually warm humid conditions, amazing fungi flourish in the rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/3/1/chilean-chinchemolles-the-elegant-phasmatid-agathemera-elegans monthly 0.5 2021-03-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1614606249643-IV2JQFHC9WP4UGETWCDD/Chinchemolle8877_1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles: the elegant phasmatid, Agathemera elegans A gorgeous female chinchemolle unabashedly dines on herbaceous plants growing along a rushing stream fed by snowmelt from Villarrica volcano. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1614606432514-NQ91G85J6T4IYKZBGK1W/auracaria2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles: the elegant phasmatid, Agathemera elegans Living fossils from the time dinosaurs roamed the earth, threatened Araucaria trees are the national tree of Chile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1614606491890-N96BALUXLNX72Y6RV2U3/Villarrica1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles: the elegant phasmatid, Agathemera elegans Slopes of the Villarrica volcano in Chile are home to the giant elegant phasmatid. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/2/20/mitey-troubles-for-house-plants-twospotted-spider-mite-tetranychus-urticae monthly 0.5 2021-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613839932932-Z4NTQFFDS46KYARW01F2/2ssmsizemjr1500.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae At only a fraction of a millimeter, twospotted spider mites still cause big problems for plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613841114146-HHI4GEWGJCPGINHFURDW/2ssmjd_632.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Two large dark patches on either side of body make it easy to see why they are called twospotted spider mites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613840500951-D33HQJC19B3B6NGCCATA/maplestippling1594.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Thousands of spider mites puncture cells and remove green tissue from leaves creating a galaxy of white spots. This injury is called stippling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1614002932932-JWNV99BGZUDIR3S93E7L/predmite_JD_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Like secret agents in Spy vs Spy, in the intriguing world of mites, predatory phytoseid mites conduct search, find, and consume missions aimed at some of their favorite meals - eggs, nymphs, and adult spider mites. Image: John Davidson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613840650343-WM4E23NDRDENLMMLP5SA/spidermitedestroyer1300.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Tiny lady beetles known as spider mite destroyers help reduce populations of spider mites in the wild. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613840718609-KDTP3B2P6SICLBMEGBS6/minutepirate1500.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Aye matey, minute pirate bugs suck the life from many small pests including lace bugs and spider mites. Image: Ada Szczepaniec https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613840772836-2RKN153I6TZAE3X5KUHG/greenlacewingsm1224.jpg Current Issue - Mitey troubles for house plants: Twospotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Assisting spider mite destroyers are alligator-like lacewing larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/2/12/ancient-insect-in-a-modern-world-silverfish-lepismatidae monthly 0.5 2021-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613165174555-URWV5PJQLXFSAJSB4XL8/silverfishoutside1500.jpg Current Issue - Ancient insect in a modern world: Silverfish, Lepismatidae In the wild, shining silvery scales mark the presence of a silverfish amongst the leaf-litter of the forest floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1613165581886-UTBJ2XMNCYZ1KSI0CI40/silverfishinsink1500.jpg Current Issue - Ancient insect in a modern world: Silverfish, Lepismatidae When they are not on the wall, sometimes they are in the sink. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/2/8/lovebugs-kissing-bugs-and-other-insects-engaged-in-intimate-activities-whats-all-this-coziness-about monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612792692235-ZV9PQAHTOQ9W23FIZ3UD/herculesmate1500.jpg Current Issue - Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities. What’s all this coziness about? This pair of Hercules beetles doesn't mind a public display of intimacy. By guarding his mate, he may prevent other suitors from mating with her. Males bear impressive horns used in combat with other males. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612793268746-JD3X1X72JF9NFE0F9D6Q/wheelbugsmate2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities. What’s all this coziness about? A dinner date of fall webworms hits the spot for awesome wheel bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612792933337-7S072K10OA31IR0T10VK/lovebugs1200.jpg Current Issue - Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities. What’s all this coziness about? Lovebugs conjoin for hours during the mating season. FYI: male on the left, female on the right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612793040563-KZ9D2QYDVXTNYQK7A3CE/kissingbug1500.jpg Current Issue - Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities. What’s all this coziness about? Kissing bugs get their name by sucking blood from tender spots, including lips of hapless human victims. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/1/31/chilly-romance-for-winter-stoneflies-plecoptera-capniidae-and-taeniopterygidae monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612110192429-D907NKPRM9WDLK0DMSQ8/winterstoneflies1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilly romance for winter stoneflies - Plecoptera: Capniidae and Taeniopterygidae Snow and ice don’t cool romance for amorous winter stoneflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612110339631-SL2P59YP0VV4RNUYG6A3/stonefly_Steve+Black_adj.jpg Current Issue - Chilly romance for winter stoneflies - Plecoptera: Capniidae and Taeniopterygidae While most insects are scarce and inactive during winter months, winter stoneflies romp about riverbanks and nearby environs even in the dead of winter. Photo credit: Steve Black https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1612110489243-S78FS3G1VWV1DERZKA4P/winterbridge1500a.jpg Current Issue - Chilly romance for winter stoneflies - Plecoptera: Capniidae and Taeniopterygidae Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to hunt winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/1/25/stinky-headstands-in-the-desert-desert-stink-beetles-genus-eleodes monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1611581476003-C1MBS27UOG16KKB017FH/eleodes3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Stinky headstands in the desert: Desert stink beetles, genus Eleodes Eleodes stands on its head as a warning to predators. Warning ignored? Get ready for a stinky stinging dose of noxious chemicals from the beetle’s rear end. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1611581641216-X217LHU4BSKYHUTVL3TI/stinksecretion_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Stinky headstands in the desert: Desert stink beetles, genus Eleodes Check out the stinky discharge that issued from the beetle’s rear end when disturbed by a bug geek. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1611581774328-BCG216GNLSQKT7D6ELJ7/DSC_4065_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Stinky headstands in the desert: Desert stink beetles, genus Eleodes This picture has little to do with the story other than to remind us of the beauty of the desert and our national parks. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/1/18/for-horny-beetles-size-does-matter-forked-fungus-beetle-bolitotherus-cornutus monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1610976377810-KF0IJWIIL9RIORXC62X3/forkedfungus3_adj.jpg Current Issue - For horny beetles, size does matter: Forked Fungus Beetle, Bolitotherus cornutus Bracket fungi are the stage for romance and rivalry of forked fungus beetles. Photo by Cathy Keifer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1610976569370-K54YK4Q94PGFMS31GVXC/forkedfungushorns_adj.jpg Current Issue - For horny beetles, size does matter: Forked Fungus Beetle, Bolitotherus cornutus Male forked fungus beetles use large upper horns and smaller lower horns to battle for possession of their mate. Photo by Cathy Keifer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1610976724125-BMBDNA6JL3W50Z5VLR5R/Forkedfungusbeetlefemale_adj.jpg Current Issue - For horny beetles, size does matter: Forked Fungus Beetle, Bolitotherus cornutus Lovely female beetles lack the prominent horns of their male suitors. Photo by Cathy Keifer https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/1/11/i-see-icy-isopods-pillbugs-terrestrial-isopoda monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1610372838096-4AEICH2BRTY3RD70VDYU/isopodscrum2021_1800.jpg Current Issue - I see icy isopods: Pillbugs, terrestrial Isopoda Pillbugs are crustaceans and more closely related to crabs than to insects. They play an important role as recyclers of organic matter. Image credit: Paula Shrewsbury, PhD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1610373079976-UG7IOHN9QFS0NBVLTXJG/DSC_2037_2680.jpg Current Issue - I see icy isopods: Pillbugs, terrestrial Isopoda The ability to roll into a tight ball resembling a pill gives pillbugs their name. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2021/1/4/new-year-visits-by-tiny-beetles-carpet-beetles-and-their-kin-dermestidae monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1609768168509-BL7GHK9N1ZO3E5MYEBN5/carpetbeetle2021_adj.jpg Current Issue - New Year visits by tiny beetles: Carpet beetles and their kin, Dermestidae But a few millimeters in length, tiny, handsome carpet beetles sometimes appear in my home on wintry days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1609768391604-XXRYV1Y89664NNX19J95/DERMESTID22_adj.jpg Current Issue - New Year visits by tiny beetles: Carpet beetles and their kin, Dermestidae Hairs on dermestid larvae can cause dermatitis to some people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1609768791046-O2PI0HFE1UAQB2S3BCJC/dermestidholes2021_1500.jpg Current Issue - New Year visits by tiny beetles: Carpet beetles and their kin, Dermestidae Uh oh, ragged holes in my woolen cap look like the handiwork of carpet beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1609768853519-58OXUW43ZIWE7IDK4WH0/dermestidscarab2021_1500.jpg Current Issue - New Year visits by tiny beetles: Carpet beetles and their kin, Dermestidae An untidy pile of frass behind a dead insect specimen is a sure indication of a dermestid beetle infestation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/12/21/twas-the-week-before-christmas-and-what-did-i-spy-the-silverleaf-whitefly-bemisia-tabaci monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1608559799573-N55GKMMGUBBE2BNOUPUO/whiteflycol2020_1500sharpened.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas and what did I spy: The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci And what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a colony of whiteflies, bringing holiday cheer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1608560197411-H8AX4YVCV0E9K8YACK5M/whiteflydamage1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas and what did I spy: The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Yellow patches on poinsettia leaves may be a sign of whiteflies feeding below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1608560295003-PCB1J22YG8QO8289BH2B/Honeydew1500_DSC00132.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas and what did I spy: The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Droplets of sweet sticky honeydew are produced as a waste product when whiteflies feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1608560364524-6E3WMSTA3RE3RSERI296/manti2020BOTW_signed.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas and what did I spy: The silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia tabaci https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/12/14/holiday-meals-served-by-an-alien-plant-and-its-cosmopolitan-guest-peach-clematis-aphid-myzus-varians monthly 0.5 2021-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1607953973607-RGECBY2IQZ0J1DR8OEW8/peachclematisaphid750_2020.jpg Current Issue - Holiday meals served by an alien plant and its cosmopolitan guest: Peach-clematis aphid, Myzus varians Despite some chilly weather, peach-clematis aphids keep on keeping on the leaves of my sweet autumn clematis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/12/7/a-blue-christmas-for-boxwood-boxwood-leafminer-monarthropalpus-flavus monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1607346657703-HCRGAMUJ8PSS497A1V5O/boxwoodleafminerlarvaemany1248.jpg Current Issue - A blue Christmas for boxwood: Boxwood leafminer, Monarthropalpus flavus No ho ho ho for this boxwood leaf loaded with larvae of boxwood leafminer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1607346806772-BYWBQM0742H74LRQVZBE/leafminerdamage1500.jpg Current Issue - A blue Christmas for boxwood: Boxwood leafminer, Monarthropalpus flavus Glossy, dark green leaves of a healthy boxwood are conspicuously absent when infestations of boxwood leafminer give boxwoods a bad case of the blues. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/11/30/small-whitish-moths-in-the-pantry-could-be-indian-meal-moth-plodia-interpunctella monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606742563832-0G3UVL0EV972AUVPWIC2/indian+meal+moth2_864.jpg Current Issue - Small, whitish moths in the pantry? Could be Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella Sparkling scales of brown, black, and silver give the Indian meal moth a rather comely appearance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606743333053-ERIB9CTLB02HIDO3XB7C/mealsilk1500.jpg Current Issue - Small, whitish moths in the pantry? Could be Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella Silk inside plastic bags or containers is a pretty sure sign of a meal moth infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606743395442-7KDXJMTBMGG0786WVWKU/mealhole1520.jpg Current Issue - Small, whitish moths in the pantry? Could be Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella Indian meal moth caterpillars can chew through plastic and invade other bags of grain, seeds, and fruit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606743246552-C8RNUGTL84HYFORA35R7/mealpheromone1500_2020.jpg Current Issue - Small, whitish moths in the pantry? Could be Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella Pheromone traps can be used to capture male meal moths and gage their activity and numbers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/11/23/fruit-flies-drosophila-spp-more-than-just-an-uninvited-thanksgiving-guest monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606136902754-5PYHE81CP1X5HVU99SID/Fig+Fly+3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Fruit flies, Drosophila spp.: More than just an uninvited Thanksgiving guest! Fruit flies like this African fig fly may join Thanksgiving festivities in your home. Photo credit: Maggie Lewis https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606137552427-KXVV44CFUJ8H8QNJ2KEA/ingalisaff_480.jpg Current Issue - Fruit flies, Drosophila spp.: More than just an uninvited Thanksgiving guest! Dozens of fruit flies could not escape the irresistible odors of vinegar. Once inside the jar, a perforated plastic cover prevented escape and sealed their fate. Photo credit: Ingalisa Schrobsdorff https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1606137611670-WP09IO5GDZF80CCB99N5/Egg_Retouched_1200.jpg Current Issue - Fruit flies, Drosophila spp.: More than just an uninvited Thanksgiving guest! African fig fly eggs are strange things with several long filaments at one end. These filaments help the egg obtain oxygen. Photo credit: Maggie Lewis https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/11/16/tiny-culprit-behind-my-gnarly-nyssa-a-leaf-curling-gall-aphid-phylloxerina-nyssae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1605530500607-HKOSEPZ45X0Z5B5Q87WC/1nyssaphylloxeradamage_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny culprit behind my gnarly Nyssa: A leaf-curling gall aphid, Phylloxerina nyssae Twisted gnarly leaves on my pretty Nyssa are the handiwork of a tiny gall-making insect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1605530616022-ZPZ6401D98LLW7BEVL2A/2DSC_0821_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny culprit behind my gnarly Nyssa: A leaf-curling gall aphid, Phylloxerina nyssae The range of color in Nyssa’s autumn display is hard to beat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1605530677761-CUWOMFFRHUR9JXSZXXKT/3phylloxeranyssa_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny culprit behind my gnarly Nyssa: A leaf-curling gall aphid, Phylloxerina nyssae Early in the growing season, phylloxerids induce small crescent-shaped galls along the margins of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1605530794688-NITCWZ8L5KO2HZNGA813/4nyssaphylloxera2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny culprit behind my gnarly Nyssa: A leaf-curling gall aphid, Phylloxerina nyssae Up in the treetop, flocculant tufts of wax mark the location of tiny insects. Are these overwintering phylloxerids that will lay claim to my Nyssa next spring? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/11/9/look-out-pennsylvania-an-invasive-pest-is-headed-your-way-euonymus-leaf-notcher-pryeria-sinica monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1604930754924-M47Q4PAU4OVGW8YGXTMQ/leafnotchadulckrause1500.jpg Current Issue - Look out Pennsylvania, an invasive pest is headed your way: Euonymus leaf- notcher, Pryeria sinica Adult euonymus leaf-notcher moths fly in autumn and mimic wasps. This one was found less than 10 miles from the Pennsylvania boarder in Hampstead, Maryland. Photo credit: Charles Krause https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1604930960504-S8BDPLM41XC3FR8DHDYN/enot8_%21500.jpg Current Issue - Look out Pennsylvania, an invasive pest is headed your way: Euonymus leaf- notcher, Pryeria sinica Hordes of caterpillars strip leaves and create frass fouled foliage (repeat three times fast). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1604931043242-4OPV8Z2AQ9F8CH2N53QL/leafnotchermday.jpg Current Issue - Look out Pennsylvania, an invasive pest is headed your way: Euonymus leaf- notcher, Pryeria sinica In 2009, surveys conducted by the Maryland Department of Agriculture discovered euonymus leaf-notcher in Anne Arundel and Prince Georges Counties in Maryland. Image credit: Maryland Department of Agriculture https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/11/2/a-gorgeous-speedy-spider-marbled-orb-weaver-araneus-marmoreus monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1604321464562-VOFZEZXE1KZP8DK7T3ST/marbledzeldow1500.jpg Current Issue - A gorgeous speedy spider: Marbled orb-weaver, Araneus marmoreus Marbled orb weavers can be found in residential landscapes, fields, and forests from spring until late autumn in Maryland. Despite its scary appearance this orb-weaver poses little threat to humans greater than 2 inches tall. Photo credit: Frederic Zeldow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1604321619917-ZH8NLKF5FFU6DNGEJWTP/marbled3_1500-13%25.jpg Current Issue - A gorgeous speedy spider: Marbled orb-weaver, Araneus marmoreus Markings of this immature marbled orb-weaver are stunning. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/10/26/just-in-time-for-halloween-insect-zombies-mind-altered-crickets-ants-beetles-flies-and-cicadas monthly 0.5 2024-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603716965684-BCQJ4HGU4S11H5YQZ9IE/MASSOSPORA1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas Next spring Massospora fungi will zombiefy periodical cicadas, taking control of their minds and behaviors while turning their abdomens into buff-colored fungus gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603717077206-4XMTWPT3ZWOBO1LJHD0J/crickbabe1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas Crickets become “suicidal” after being infected by horsehair nematode worms. Click here to see images of horsehair worms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603717165912-1ZJKKPTR4SDSQKO4GD60/ophiocordyceps_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas Ready to release their spores, parasol-like fruiting bodies of Ophiocordyceps rise from the corpse of their zombie ant host. Photo courtesy of David P. Hughes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603717221642-9W6NHSFUIQG9H3QXYL6A/seedcorn3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas Seedcorn flies infected with Entomophthora climb high on plants. Their grotesquely swollen abdomens are attractive to male flies that will attempt to mate with them, thereby becoming infected and furthering the spread of Entomophthora. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603717828367-ZPUANVGV65LB1IELZ0OP/Jack+o%27+Lantern.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for Halloween, insect zombies! Mind-altered crickets, ants, beetles, flies, and cicadas https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/10/19/waxy-ladies-dance-like-someones-watching-woolly-beech-aphid-aka-boogie-woogie-aphid-grylloprociphilus-imbricator monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603111138913-QHWVTIK7G0X6D7DR8NUF/beechwooleyaphid1500.jpg Current Issue - Waxy ladies dance like someone’s watching: Woolly beech aphid, a.k.a. boogie-woogie aphid, Grylloprociphilus imbricator That’s not snow you see on the branches of an American beech tree. You’re looking at white wax produced by thousands of tiny sap-sucking woolly aphids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1603111255786-BSKI4B6IVQQ8JP994I3Z/Scoriasfungalmat1500.jpg Current Issue - Waxy ladies dance like someone’s watching: Woolly beech aphid, a.k.a. boogie-woogie aphid, Grylloprociphilus imbricator Honeydew excreted by legions of aphids rain down on leaves and branches below. This sugar-rich solution is the substrate for a specialist sooty mold fungus, Scorias spongiosa. This fungus cloaks leaves and branches and sometimes forms dense sponge-like mats several inches thick. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/10/12/an-unusual-but-not-unpleasant-home-invasion-by-a-beneficial-beetle-big-headed-ground-beetle-scarites-subterraneus monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1602507079967-FBF7GTSSD4KEF220CTAO/scaritisroylance_adj.jpg Current Issue - An unusual but not unpleasant home invasion by a beneficial beetle: Big-headed ground beetle, Scarites subterraneus The big-headed ground beetle, Scarites subterraneus, sometimes makes a surprise visit to homes in autumn. Photo credit: Frank Roylance https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1602507484490-5QEY90377S71114SB0VA/calasoma.jpeg Current Issue - An unusual but not unpleasant home invasion by a beneficial beetle: Big-headed ground beetle, Scarites subterraneus Calosoma wilcoxi (right) is about one third the size of its cousin, the fiery searcher Calosoma scrutator (left). Both climb trees to devour caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/10/5/garden-spiders-rockin-in-the-dmv-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-argiope-aurantia monthly 0.5 2025-05-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601901215719-EKNKBN5C2NVXS606AZHR/jillmooreb%26y800.jpg Current Issue - Garden spiders rockin’ in the DMV: Black and yellow garden spider, Argiope aurantia Gardens around the DMV seem to be having a bumper crop of black and yellow garden spiders this year. Image credit: Jill Moore https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601901391736-0Z9ZMFOV9E3PMC4K0VIC/BlkYel+spider+on+screen_Steve+Hand1500.jpg Current Issue - Garden spiders rockin’ in the DMV: Black and yellow garden spider, Argiope aurantia Black and yellow garden spiders can be quite entertaining when they spin their webs in windows. Notice the beautiful stabilimentum. Image credit: Steve Hand https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601901478154-4F910X0CXJ5SJFJ2D06L/stabilimentum1500_2020.jpg Current Issue - Garden spiders rockin’ in the DMV: Black and yellow garden spider, Argiope aurantia A stabilimentum of heavy silk adorns the center of this web. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601901672542-IX5UI73BZ3CP844C0A8H/blackyelloweggsac1500_2020.jpg Current Issue - Garden spiders rockin’ in the DMV: Black and yellow garden spider, Argiope aurantia How many spiderlings will emerge from an egg case the size of a very large marble? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/9/28/lanternflies-on-the-move-spotted-lanternfly-lycorma-delicatula monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601298320441-ASIP7T1CIVE5O8QI3HOK/1skinnylanternfly772.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula Slender spotted lanternflies like this one that landed on a small twig just before I snapped this photo are often flight capable, unmated females searching for suitable host plants on which to feed and produce batches of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601298472007-MEF6A3ZJUE682UUC1SYP/2nymphsontree1500.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula In deciduous forests spotted lanternfly nymphs traveled surprisingly long distances, up to 65 meters from a point of release. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601298608831-E2LULQZICEAUZXOHN3PL/3rotundlanternfly1500.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula Rotund spotted lanternflies like this one with a bright yellow underbelly are generally mated females with limited flight ability. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601298764456-J75ZNH3IKRH4DF30TNLK/4spottedlanternflyeggmass1500.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula Spotted lanternfly egg masses are rather nondescript and often deposited on natural and human-made objects including masonry products, lawn furniture, pallets, and vehicles including automobiles and railroad cars. Movement of eggs is thought to be a major component of the long distance spread of spotted lanternflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601299283020-M04T8CJGXN4QPFF8BYJD/SLF-reported-distribution-9-23-20.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1601299381335-OZV0OMSFPRFKAQ7QDGED/potential-distribution-of-spotted-lanternfly-in-United-States+-+Copy.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies on the move: Spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/9/21/giant-silk-moth-larvae-prepare-for-winter-imperial-moth-eacles-imperialis monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1600693399048-RY2OBXX6CR6XEF6WRG1G/Imperial+moth+adult1500.jpg Current Issue - Giant silk moth larvae prepare for winter: Imperial moth, Eacles imperialis Gorgeous Imperial moths can sometimes be spotted on tree trunks where they await their mate. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/9/14/plants-as-camouflage-who-thought-of-it-first-meet-the-camouflaged-looper-synchlora-aerate monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1600089238951-G4VE97XDUQHQ38XAWWCO/camouflagedlooper1500.jpg Current Issue - Plants as camouflage - who thought of it first? Meet the camouflaged looper, Synchlora aerate Ok, if you can find the caterpillar, on which end is the head, left or right? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1600089377692-HVMBCL0SSE7GYYOCEMJN/clooperfrass1500.jpg Current Issue - Plants as camouflage - who thought of it first? Meet the camouflaged looper, Synchlora aerate A blossom full of frass is a pretty good clue that a caterpillar may be lurking nearby. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1600089429461-XRBYOHY9006MGE2JNJ01/camolooper1500.jpg Current Issue - Plants as camouflage - who thought of it first? Meet the camouflaged looper, Synchlora aerate The camouflaged looper turns into the pretty wavy-lined emerald moth. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/9/7/befriend-wasps-and-they-will-befriend-you-digger-wasps-scolia-dubia-and-scolia-nobilitata monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1599485248694-YYLCUQML8AL2UFJJ8OEY/scoliadubia2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - Befriend wasps and they will befriend you: Digger wasps, Scolia dubia and Scolia nobilitata This hairy wasp with a yellow spot on each side of the abdomen digs through the soil to lay its lethal spawn on subterranean beetle grubs. White grubs, be very afraid when Scolia dubia comes to the garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1599485546575-5VE4I0JU3K9Q8R2W87O2/scolianobilitata1500.jpg Current Issue - Befriend wasps and they will befriend you: Digger wasps, Scolia dubia and Scolia nobilitata Four yellow spots on the abdomen of Scolia nobilitata make it easy to distinguish from its cousin, Scolia dubia. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/8/31/what-lies-beneath-the-wax-a-duo-of-leaf-eating-sawflies-dogwood-sawfly-macremphytus-tarsatus-and-butternut-woollyworm-eriocampa-juglandis monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1598880981845-AYNUD1AHXL87IGUMRV08/dogwoodsawflies1500.jpg Current Issue - What lies beneath the wax? A duo of leaf-eating sawflies: Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus, and Butternut woollyworm, Eriocampa juglandis Beautiful dogwood sawfly caterpillars assume their characteristic curly pose between bouts of defoliating dogwoods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1598881451557-CBPZ1K43SLE0VLXMIZUW/caterpillarsawfly_Adj.jpg Current Issue - What lies beneath the wax? A duo of leaf-eating sawflies: Dogwood sawfly, Macremphytus tarsatus, and Butternut woollyworm, Eriocampa juglandis An easy way to tell the difference between caterpillars, the larvae of moths and butterflies, and sawfly larvae is to count the pairs of appendages called prolegs on their abdominal segments. Caterpillars like the larva on top have five or fewer pairs of prolegs. Sawfly larvae like the one below usually have six or more pairs of prolegs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/8/24/a-sting-to-kill-a-cow-red-velvet-ant-aka-cow-killer-dasymutilla-occidentalis monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1598274447423-5V1EE2Z1LLN5V9V5NB3M/velvetantjaws2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - A sting to kill a cow? Red velvet ant, a.k.a. cow killer, Dasymutilla occidentalis Powerful jaws help the velvet ant defend itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1598274608875-Y5CALDGTCBSMJTPFF8LZ/velvetantinglass_Tracy1500.jpg Current Issue - A sting to kill a cow? Red velvet ant, a.k.a. cow killer, Dasymutilla occidentalis Must have been a brave soul who corralled this red velvet ant in a drinking glass. Photo credit: Tracy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1598274726831-JYX0HOSRASG1UTZTDSMN/velvetantstinger2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - A sting to kill a cow? Red velvet ant, a.k.a. cow killer, Dasymutilla occidentalis Wow! With a stinger like that, no wonder she is called a “cow killer”. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/8/17/katydids-crickets-and-grasshoppers-beware-great-black-wasps-and-katydid-wasps-are-in-the-air-sphex-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1597666292962-SRMEJRXHCN5RQY3R7IQ1/sphex2_1500UMD.jpg Current Issue - Katydids, crickets, and grasshoppers beware, Great black wasps and katydid wasps are in the air: Sphex spp. After visiting horsemint, the back and head of the great black wasp are coated with pollen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/8/10/two-twilight-troubadours-dusk-singing-cicadas-and-katydids monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1597064803101-PAX02NLH07L57JUR69M8/Annual+cicada_DSC_0031_1500.jpg Current Issue - Two twilight troubadours: Dusk-singing cicadas and katydids Gorgeous annual cicadas chorus in daytime and evening on toasty summer days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1597065161722-AU0G54TV3CNNXXC7Q3C0/tymbal2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Two twilight troubadours: Dusk-singing cicadas and katydids By rapidly vibrating tymbal organs of each side of their abdomen, cicadas produce otherworldly songs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1597065226134-Z9M85ZIES1C6391NIAU6/katyears4_adj.jpg Current Issue - Two twilight troubadours: Dusk-singing cicadas and katydids The dark chambers on the front legs of the katydid collect vibrations in the air enabling it to hear the calls of other katydids. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/8/3/missing-bugs-of-the-week-swallowtail-butterflies-papilionidae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1596468569217-9H5D3HKFYXCOUOKVIHOC/tigerlong+%282%29_1500.jpg Current Issue - Missing bugs of the week: Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae Beautiful eastern tiger swallowtails have been relatively scarce in my garden thus far this year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1596468703040-IDTJWXYKCZ4B9XLGLAHM/Blk+swallowtail+caterpillar1500_DSC_2127.jpg Current Issue - Missing bugs of the week: Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae My dill and parsley escaped the jaws of very hungry black swallowtail caterpillars that usually grace my herb garden each summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1596468744504-J8IXWMF4550ZW63M5IH1/spicebushcat2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Missing bugs of the week: Swallowtail butterflies, Papilionidae No spice bush swallowtails or their amusing caterpillars have yet appeared in my landscape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/7/27/hey-beetles-leave-some-milkweed-for-the-monarchs-milkweed-leaf-beetle-labidomera-clivicollis monthly 0.5 2025-05-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1595855430642-XTI50ISJSHMJYBW193UD/milkweedleafexcellent8x11_adj.jpg Current Issue - Hey beetles, leave some milkweed for the monarchs: Milkweed leaf beetle, Labidomera clivicollis Beautiful adult milkweed leaf beetles sport Mother Nature’s warning colors of orange and black. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/7/13/monarda-marauder-raspberry-pyrausta-pyrausta-signatalis monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1594643957782-JU5OQ90L11EFHS3NHWE8/raspberrypyraustaadult_adj.jpg Current Issue - Monarda marauder: Raspberry pyrausta, Pyrausta signatalis Eggs laid in flower heads by the pretty raspberry pyrausta moth hatch into hungry caterpillars ready to pillage monarda blossoms. Image credit: P. M. Shrewsbury, UMD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1594644275140-FP48U7KKJLT2UPTRBIP5/raspberrypyraustacaterpillar_adj.jpg Current Issue - Monarda marauder: Raspberry pyrausta, Pyrausta signatalis A small creamy colored caterpillar is the marauder feasting on my flowers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/7/6/mailbox-posts-are-fine-homes-for-giant-resin-bees-megachile-sculpturalis monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1594047235532-FBGOV2SQGK1T3XD26L44/giantresinbeemailbox_1500.jpg Current Issue - Mailbox posts are fine homes for giant resin bees, Megachile sculpturalis Who's that checking out the mailbox post? Giant resin bee! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1594047292302-X7ILG3QU2IYD9B1TJ4WS/giantresinbee_adj.jpg Current Issue - Mailbox posts are fine homes for giant resin bees, Megachile sculpturalis This fantastic enhanced image reveals the beauty of a female giant resin bee. Photo credit Sam Droege, USGS. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/6/29/deerly-departed-food-for-flesh-recycling-carrion-beetles-margined-carrion-beetle-oiceoptoma-noveboracense-and-american-carrion-beetle-necrophila-americana monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1593434167513-OB1QW1I31WLFXBMU45JM/carrionmargined1500.jpg Current Issue - Deerly departed: food for flesh-recycling carrion beetles - Margined carrion beetle, Oiceoptoma noveboracense, and American carrion beetle, Necrophila americana A margined carrion beetle takes a break from eating flesh and maggots to glam for the camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1593434716042-2OUONWVN8CT93QIVDSM8/americancarrion1500.jpg Current Issue - Deerly departed: food for flesh-recycling carrion beetles - Margined carrion beetle, Oiceoptoma noveboracense, and American carrion beetle, Necrophila americana A nocturnal jaunt near a carcass reveals a pretty American carrion beetle caught in the beam of a flashlight. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/6/22/aphid-lions-green-and-brown-aphids-you-are-going-down-chrysopidea-and-hemerobiidae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592830456247-28PHT15ZPELJD2X0H9SO/greenlacewing2020_adj.jpg Current Issue - Aphid lions green and brown, aphids you are going down! Chrysopidea and Hemerobiidae It’s obvious how the beautiful green lacewing got its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592830782018-Q29ODYLRN9C50HUQU3YJ/brownlacewing2020_adj.jpg Current Issue - Aphid lions green and brown, aphids you are going down! Chrysopidea and Hemerobiidae Although not as lovely as the green lacewing, the brown lacewing also spells disaster for many common garden pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592830856376-L3U90S73XWUANB8FNWZV/lwegg2020_adj.jpg Current Issue - Aphid lions green and brown, aphids you are going down! Chrysopidea and Hemerobiidae Green lacewing eggs are deposited at the tip of slender stalks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592831012281-TUVT7MEYQL373OIPU44U/lwpup2020_adj.jpg Current Issue - Aphid lions green and brown, aphids you are going down! Chrysopidea and Hemerobiidae Silken spheres attached to the leaf’s surface provide safe haven for the green lacewing larva to transform into the gorgeous adult. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/6/15/recyclers-in-the-circle-of-life-bess-beetles-odontotaenius-disjunctus monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592224023612-FOLYAJB44GRG5I1LKCF5/bessbeetlejaws1500.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers in the Circle of Life: Bess beetles, Odontotaenius disjunctus These powerful jaws can gnaw through even super-tough wood like oak. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1592224173541-SJLO2EGKMDHWN8RMZ960/bessbeetleashley1500.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers in the Circle of Life: Bess beetles, Odontotaenius disjunctus Dilemma for a bess beetle at a picnic “Do I go for the hamburger bun or find a dead tree to eat?” Image credit: Ashley May https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/6/8/snap-to-it-and-dump-those-containers-or-there-will-be-blood-culex-and-aedes-mosquitoes monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591619979494-I4G3CQ6DN4I1MQ9PE665/cpipmol20172_underH2O.jpg Current Issue - Snap to it and dump those containers or there will be blood! Culex and Aedes mosquitoes With a belly full of blood, this Culex mosquito will soon be laying eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591620717876-174MDJM4CK1LRNBFTJOD/culexeggs2_adj.jpg Current Issue - Snap to it and dump those containers or there will be blood! Culex and Aedes mosquitoes Hundreds of larvae will hatch from Culex egg rafts floating on the surface of the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591620841383-K640NU2N145R1INLDE98/bigmosquito2_2000.jpg Current Issue - Snap to it and dump those containers or there will be blood! Culex and Aedes mosquitoes Mosquitoes loom large this time of year around our nation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/6/1/cicada-surprise-in-the-dmv-brood-ix-and-straggling-brood-x-periodical-cicadas-magicicada-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591015407335-021CDU96F7BI58DW3P7Q/nancybrood10straggler1500.jpg Current Issue - Cicada surprise in the DMV! Brood IX and straggling Brood X periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. Look what showed up in a yard in Bowie Maryland, a periodical cicada. Image: Nancy Harding, UMD Entomology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591016035530-7542TUFL9T26X0QSJPCH/cicadamap+may+23%2C+2020_GK.jpg Current Issue - Cicada surprise in the DMV! Brood IX and straggling Brood X periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. In addition to the massive emergence of billions of Brood IX cicadas underway in North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia, Maryland seems to be a hotspot for the appearance of cicada stragglers, the vanguard of Brood X cicada scheduled to make their grand appearance in 2021. Image: Gene Kritsky https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1591016133233-60FODDU1Z1G671J5EYNI/cicadasafariapp_GK.jpg Current Issue - Cicada surprise in the DMV! Brood IX and straggling Brood X periodical cicadas, Magicicada spp. To join other cicadaphiles in the quest for information on these marvelous creatures, look for the Cicada Safari app at the app store. Image: Gene Kritsky https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/5/25/whats-up-when-aphids-have-a-hole-in-their-rear-end-tiny-parasitic-wasps-aphidius-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1590410950899-1IUPP5JQEQT708UCJYCF/aphidmummieswithholes1500.jpg Current Issue - What’s up when aphids have a hole in their rear end: Tiny parasitic wasps, Aphidius spp. Mother Nature’s hit squad is at work in my perennial gardens. Today we learn about aphid mummies and how they get holes in their rear ends. Something I’m sure everyone wants to know. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/5/18/murder-hornets-take-2-asian-giant-hornet-vespa-mandarinia monthly 0.5 2021-10-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1589804986039-YU07O6KGK5POE7OXXH0Z/Asiangiant+and+European.jpg Current Issue - Murder hornets, Take 2: Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia Many viewers are sending images of European hornet, a fairly common and widely distributed exotic species established in the US for decades. A side-by-side comparison will help you to distinguish between the European hornet and Asian giant hornet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1589807057947-USRQTJME8BKJ5FHXV3H0/5571004-SMPT.jpg Current Issue - Murder hornets, Take 2: Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia Let’s take a closer look at the Asian giant hornet. Image by Allan Smith-Pardo, Invasive Hornets, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/5/11/murder-wasps-time-to-panic-asian-giant-hornet-vespa-mandarinia monthly 0.5 2021-10-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1589203372215-CJ5S0MLLUPLFRSEW9HKL/5571004-SMPT.jpg Current Issue - Murder wasps - time to panic? Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia Let’s take a closer look at the Asian giant hornet. Image by Allan Smith-Pardo, Invasive Hornets, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1589205594297-APP1G71IFLNEA27YG2FM/Asiangiant+and+European.jpg Current Issue - Murder wasps - time to panic? Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia Many viewers are sending images of European hornet, a fairly common and widely distributed exotic species established in the US for decades. A side-by-side comparison will help you to distinguish between the European hornet and Asian giant hornet. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/5/4/the-silk-trail-eastern-tent-caterpillar-malacosoma-americanum monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1588603528818-O2ZMI4K1DH00E1UKIHOW/etccatarbnews1500.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail: Eastern tent caterpillar, Malacosoma americanum The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1588603830080-QE8U099GJ7M686VZUYW7/etcdefol1500.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail: Eastern tent caterpillar, Malacosoma americanum Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped of leaves by hungry tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1588603744693-DF7MD05HBT5D8M2JAB7I/etccacconsamll1500.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail: Eastern tent caterpillar, Malacosoma americanum Transformation from caterpillar to adult takes place in a white silken cocoon which is often hidden under that loose bark of a dead tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/4/27/ground-nesting-bees-beware-of-blister-beetles-meloe-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1587991082888-U4NOXOCPAKQ383OA0HXB/blister2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of blister beetles - Meloe spp. Large blister beetles in the genus Meloe, sometimes called oil beetles, find noxious Jimson weed a tasty treat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1587991257943-RE1HOWEFJ0DPXIQEUJUN/blisterblood1500.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of blister beetles - Meloe spp. Yellow droplets at the leg joints of the blister beetle can produce large blisters if they contact your skin. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/4/13/six-legged-tiger-king-six-spotted-green-tiger-beetle-cicindela-sexguttata monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586789701276-EC01VRU19H5ULWGWTSN0/tigereatsant1472.jpg Current Issue - Six-legged tiger king: Six-spotted green tiger beetle, Cicindela sexguttata In my front flower bed a six-spotted green tiger beetle snacks on a hapless field ant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586795522354-AI9XFZ61D4Q5AEPMF4QM/tigerinpoolcover_Amarie1500.jpg Current Issue - Six-legged tiger king: Six-spotted green tiger beetle, Cicindela sexguttata Six-spotted green tigers sometimes find themselves temporarily entangled by human’s contrivances. Fortunately, this one was released back into the suburban wild. Image: Anne Marie https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586790236114-6ER4KG2U120T02ZESYUV/tigerlarv2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Six-legged tiger king: Six-spotted green tiger beetle, Cicindela sexguttata The strange tiger beetle larva lives in an underground lair and captures unsuspecting prey that stray too near. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/4/13/spring-sunshine-heralds-the-appearance-of-plasterer-bees-colletes monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586967587512-SYJFKDE3XKO8KJO4GENP/1plastererclose1764.jpg Current Issue - Spring sunshine heralds the appearance of plasterer bees, Colletes What is the guy with the camera looking at? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586783777291-M22O7Y7TFKFAPZSW3OFK/IMG_6753_MStamm1500.jpg Current Issue - Spring sunshine heralds the appearance of plasterer bees, Colletes Soil conditions must be perfect to support nesting sites for thousands of plasterer bees. Thanks to Marlene Stamm for sharing her images and providing a home for these fantastic native pollinators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/4/6/corona-got-you-blue-heres-a-blue-to-cheer-you-up-blue-morpho-butterfly-morpho-peleides monthly 0.5 2021-08-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586178679568-L816ZO8HHRHDKT6LM7XT/morphounderwing1500.jpg Current Issue - Covid got you blue? Here’s a ‘blue’ to cheer you up: blue Morpho butterfly, Morpho peleides Bold scary eyespots adorn the lower surface of the Morpho’s wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586179266141-5MG746VTERRPP4ZEMEJV/morphohatching1500.jpg Current Issue - Covid got you blue? Here’s a ‘blue’ to cheer you up: blue Morpho butterfly, Morpho peleides Within chrysalises, Morpho caterpillars transform into beautiful adults. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1586179583203-T5ZJAXP5Y3GTMSYZN42C/morpholcats1500.jpg Current Issue - Covid got you blue? Here’s a ‘blue’ to cheer you up: blue Morpho butterfly, Morpho peleides Brightly colored Morpho caterpillars bear tufts of long hairs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/3/30/rain-on-a-sunny-day-tropical-rainforest-cicadas-dorisiana-sp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1585574470232-PNBUMGS9K18Q6BHYCNDZ/Dorisiana+cachla1500.jpg Current Issue - Rain on a sunny day: Tropical rainforest cicadas, Dorisiana sp. Massive appearances of rainforest cicadas like Dorisiana cachla can make it rain on a sunny day in a tropical rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/3/23/rainforest-ants-4-the-bodyguards-part-2-azteca-ants-protecting-cecropia-trees monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1584969677597-KB4MDNORYCJQM99TIDIU/cecropia1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 4 – The Bodyguards, Part 2: Azteca ants protecting Cecropia trees In disturbed areas along the edge of the dense tropical forest Cecropia is one of the most common pioneer trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1584969803289-3A423PNJ3ZC4F4Y8ZK98/cecropiafood_adj.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 4 – The Bodyguards, Part 2: Azteca ants protecting Cecropia trees At the base of the petiole where leaf joins stem, a brown patch filled with Müllerian bodies provides carbohydrates and other nutrients for Azteca ant bodyguards. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/3/16/rainforest-ants-3-the-bodyguards-part-1-pseudomyrmex-ants-protecting-bullhorn-acacias monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1584362594352-7QDDL2ZP6FBB6J03213E/acaciaantbeltianbody1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 3 – The Bodyguards, part 1: Pseudomyrmex ants protecting bullhorn acacias Adorning leaves are nutrient rich, orange Beltian bodies. Acacia ants harvest these morsels to sustain the queen and colony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1584362792595-JH9BNYKTRFVJ3WF1PQVD/1acaciaanthole.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 3 – The Bodyguards, part 1: Pseudomyrmex ants protecting bullhorn acacias Small holes in the thorn allow ants to enter and exit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1584362844888-HKDNJ3HJ0CXDCGUEV4R8/acaciaextrafloral1400.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 3 – The Bodyguards, part 1: Pseudomyrmex ants protecting bullhorn acacias Nectaries at the base of the leaf’s petiole provide a rich source of energy for busy ants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/3/9/rainforest-ants-2-rapacious-raiders-army-ants-eciton-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583760699495-XDYN5BJNDKLSYSRL6JXU/armysoldier1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 2 - Rapacious raiders: Army ants, Eciton spp. Ferocious soldiers protect the flank of the raiding column of workers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583760818620-MAO0GK4SHMGFXCW8G19E/2aabite1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 2 - Rapacious raiders: Army ants, Eciton spp. Giant jaws deliver lethal bites to predators and teach a lesson to a nosy bug geek. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583760979532-A1DB822OBX88H2C1LP7T/aabiv1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 2 - Rapacious raiders: Army ants, Eciton spp. A night time trip to the outhouse can be especially exciting when army ants set up a bivouac inside. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/3/2/rainforest-ants-1-tropical-fungus-farmers-leafcutter-ants-atta-and-acromyrmex-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583157547801-C5KXAEECPKS8GGRSRD5A/leafcutterwithbud1500a.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 1 - Tropical fungus farmers: Leafcutter ants, Atta and Acromyrmex spp. Leaves and buds of Brazilian fire tree are transported from the treetop to the colony by major workers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583158238114-31UP3B6258XQA7N3WZ4Z/leafcutternest3+copy.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 1 - Tropical fungus farmers: Leafcutter ants, Atta and Acromyrmex spp. Ventilation shafts cool the underground ant colony and provide for the exchange of gasses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1583159752523-D4X2OG8ZEMH2KUQ0ASP2/leafcutterdam+copy.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Ants 1 - Tropical fungus farmers: Leafcutter ants, Atta and Acromyrmex spp. Leafcutters don’t leave much behind when defoliating favored plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/2/24/a-rainforest-beauty-better-for-observing-rather-than-touching-silkmoth-caterpillar-automeris-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1582555639305-XIB9JMOSOI11Y245UO12/automeris2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - A rainforest beauty better for observing rather than touching: Silkmoth caterpillar, Automeris spp. Silk moth caterpillars like this Automeris species are spectacular denizens of the rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1582556223794-B3293SHBOBCOFCUUQVGE/iomalefemale1500.jpg Current Issue - A rainforest beauty better for observing rather than touching: Silkmoth caterpillar, Automeris spp. False eyespots on the hind wing may help beautiful male (top) and female (bottom) Automeris moths gain protection from hungry predators. These two are Io moths, Automeris io. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/2/13/small-dragons-dragonflies-anisoptera monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1581624847874-KPBO0Y95A16LVEMVMTPI/headstand1500.jpg Current Issue - Small Dragons: Dragonflies, Anisoptera On hot days with brilliant sunshine a dragonfly may point its abdomen upward to reduce the surface area exposed to the sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1581625176690-KK0HPRMQZO1IVHZ3PGDB/dragonskin1500.jpg Current Issue - Small Dragons: Dragonflies, Anisoptera An empty shed skin attached to a stem is all that remains of a dragonfly’s life underwater. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/2/3/walkin-on-water-water-striders-gerridae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1580740145873-44TQYH7KEYCJBDZ3H25K/waterstrider2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - Walkin’ on water: Water striders, Gerridae What forces and clever adaptations enable water striders to literally walk on water? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/1/27/why-four-eyes-whirligig-beetles-gyrinidae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1580136919040-VK10F6579167W6HVR3R1/whirligigeyes1500.jpg Current Issue - Why four eyes? Whirligig beetles, Gyrinidae Viewed from the side you can see compound eyes of the whirligig beetle, one looking up, another looking down. Two on the right and two on the left make four. But the question is why? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/1/27/upside-and-downside-of-a-warming-world-for-the-despoiler-of-hemlocks-hemlock-woolly-adelgid-adelges-tsugae monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1580132144901-TEVFJ5MPGUI0CPOPHBY5/hwaadjusted1408.jpg Current Issue - Upside and downside of a warming world for the despoiler of hemlocks: Hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae White bundles of fluffy wax are a sure sign of a woolly adelgid infestation on hemlocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1580132307157-IV0UDQ8NYF3D0BFU1GX9/hemlock1500.jpg Current Issue - Upside and downside of a warming world for the despoiler of hemlocks: Hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae Eastern hemlocks are beautiful native trees well suited for landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1580132360871-I9ITFYMM0TM3P1GCI085/hemlockdam1500.jpg Current Issue - Upside and downside of a warming world for the despoiler of hemlocks: Hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae The hemlock woolly adelgid has killed thousands of eastern hemlocks throughout natural and managed landscapes in eastern North America. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/1/19/scorpion-glow-scorpion-sting-slenderbrown-and-other-scorpions-in-central-america-centruroides-spp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1579453501468-VRZ10C78USH1SGYXLZNH/scorpionglow3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Scorpion glow, scorpion sting: Slenderbrown and other scorpions in Central America, Centruroides spp. Like psychedelic posters from the 60’s, rockin’ tropical scorpions glow beneath the beams of a blacklight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1579453866574-FG3DRDYPMPL7EPCJA08B/scorp1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Scorpion glow, scorpion sting: Slenderbrown and other scorpions in Central America, Centruroides spp. Who’s that lurking in the corner of the bed frame? And is that another wedged in the crack above? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1579454639983-9Q1EL4Z3YTO08AE0V0EW/scorp2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Scorpion glow, scorpion sting: Slenderbrown and other scorpions in Central America, Centruroides spp. Scary pinchers, or pedipalps, are used to capture prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1579454692123-4WH0EVFL31QMLYIKORFV/scorp3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Scorpion glow, scorpion sting: Slenderbrown and other scorpions in Central America, Centruroides spp. If this sting gets you, you will be sending out an SOS to the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/1/13/wintry-appearance-of-a-strange-moth-fall-cankerworm-alsophila-pometaria monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578922609123-ZLRI0SNH1O34T3OXA6XP/fallcanker4_1478.jpg Current Issue - Wintry appearance of a strange moth: Fall cankerworm, Alsophila pometaria Wingless, flightless, non-feeding, winter-active, what a strange moth is this female fall cankerworm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578923881163-22G2V0JEAPBHT9CU799G/fallcankerwormale2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Wintry appearance of a strange moth: Fall cankerworm, Alsophila pometaria Flight-capable male fall cankerworms are often seen on mild winter nights resting on trees or near porch lights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578923968762-TQATDF987J7FISCOWXHH/cankerggs2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Wintry appearance of a strange moth: Fall cankerworm, Alsophila pometaria High in the treetops fall cankerworms deposit eggs on the bark of branches and twigs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578924144201-3JVE7UURJ7YJCUG7OMHM/cankshred1500.jpg Current Issue - Wintry appearance of a strange moth: Fall cankerworm, Alsophila pometaria Shredded leaves left behind by hungry caterpillars give these pests their common moniker, cankerworm. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2020/1/6/a-surprise-visit-from-my-ants-citronella-ants-lasius-sp monthly 0.5 2021-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578318166193-6WBPVXXDUMR6GQV0JVVJ/citronella2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - A surprise visit from my ants: Citronella ants, Lasius sp. A cluster of female (larger ant) and male (smaller ant) smaller citronella ants seem ready to set forth to found new colonies on a warm afternoon in December. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578319296048-UWWOKRGGVCIDVYW4XC5H/citronellaworkers2020_1500.jpg Current Issue - A surprise visit from my ants: Citronella ants, Lasius sp. When disturbed, bright yellow worker ants release alarm pheromones to recruit nest-mates to assist in defending the colony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1578319767356-42F9QHCCFLDEHI158I47/largeyellowant879.jpg Current Issue - A surprise visit from my ants: Citronella ants, Lasius sp. Large yellow ants will sometimes swarm inside homes much to the dismay of unsuspecting homeowners. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/12/23/dashing-through-the-snow-snow-scorpionflies-boreus-sp monthly 0.5 2019-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1577109268959-EZPFDS4A2BNR5MKPXJX4/snowscorp7_1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, Boreus sp. Among frosty fronds, a scorpionfly gazes on a frozen landscape. Does she await her mate or ponder her next bite of moss? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1577109467536-7UA27Z56CMY5M4KLJNBD/snowscorp1a_1500b.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, Boreus sp. Chilly feet don’t cool the romance between winter-loving scorpionflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1577109576181-QFPYHV97158FB6QWVRI7/beechristmas20192a_adj.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, Boreus sp. Bug of the Week wishes all of you a Happy Holiday and a joyous New Year. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/12/16/a-giant-among-beetles-hercules-beetle-dynastes-tityus monthly 0.5 2019-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1576507708945-2NVHFOVY9PCTNT48B241/unicorn9_1500.jpg Current Issue - A giant among beetles: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus Rhinoceros beetles like this male Hercules beetle use their impressive horns to battle each other for access to mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1576507907243-VLQEUBIG8ID7G4ON12TB/unicorngrub_adj.jpg Current Issue - A giant among beetles: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus Fully grown grubs of the Hercules beetle are prime tucker for bears, raccoons, and other wildlife. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1576508081577-3J65AK8X9YSGLOB2WBY3/herculesmalefemale1500.jpg Current Issue - A giant among beetles: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus Here in the DMV, native male and female Hercules beetles, a type of rhinoceros beetle, can be held in one hand. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1576508196268-2KQ8GL1P3RDRGVWYOPK1/tropicalrhinomalefemale1500.jpg Current Issue - A giant among beetles: Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus But in Belize, it takes two hands to hold magnificent female and male rhinoceros beetles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/12/9/beetles-roasting-on-an-open-fire-roundheaded-borers-cerambycidae-flatheaded-borers-buprestidae-and-darkling-beetles-tenebrionidae monthly 0.5 2021-03-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575900363541-1BNN8KF1M9KVJ158NCPF/tenebes1500.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, Cerambycidae; Flatheaded borers, Buprestidae; and Darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae Darkling beetles huddle beneath the bark of a log to escape winter’s chill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575900488328-XA2KED4M3KQCOKWDV9VP/alb1500.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, Cerambycidae; Flatheaded borers, Buprestidae; and Darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae It’s easy to see how Asian Longhorned Beetle got its name. Just look at those antennae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575901311858-LB3B5O5VWO8ZV4X196GZ/eablarvagal1500.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, Cerambycidae; Flatheaded borers, Buprestidae; and Darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae Just under the bark, an Emerald Ash Borer larva has almost completed its development. A frass filled gallery marks its progress through the wood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575900746362-BUJ6C2HBRX9YNPKEV1MB/eabexit3_1400.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, Cerambycidae; Flatheaded borers, Buprestidae; and Darkling beetles, Tenebrionidae Classic D-shaped exit hole of a flatheaded borer, in this case the Emerald Ash Borer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/12/2/dashing-caterpillars-predicting-weather-and-preparing-for-winter-banded-woolly-bear-pyrrharctia-isabella-giant-woolly-bear-hypercompe-scribonia-and-saltmarsh-caterpillar-estigmene-acrea monthly 0.5 2019-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575293673429-VQIUN0BZM3AJAF77GYQF/bandedwoolly1500b.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea Does the wide orange band portend a mild winter ahead? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575293856514-56PAZKH3GNBXV5NR6U3N/IsabellatigerKarinB1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea The banded woolly bear turns into the pretty Isabella tiger moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575295554725-Z1ZJB4YZ9N2HR26RHXRH/Leopardmoth1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea The adult leopard moth, mother of the giant woolly bear, is a thing of beauty with black patterned white wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1575295593471-OA0X9T996YQALQF850C0/giantwoollybear1500.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather and preparing for winter: Banded woolly bear, Pyrrharctia Isabella, Giant woolly bear, Hypercompe scribonia, and Saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea When threatened, the giant woolly bear caterpillar presents a phalanx of stout spines punctuated by crimson rings between body segments – a strong warning to would-be predators and bug geeks. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/25/pumpkin-eaters-fruit-flies-drosophilidae monthly 0.5 2019-11-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1574694400034-FMYILN3KSGOQDXDMT37M/fruitfly2019_851filter80.jpg Current Issue - Pumpkin eaters: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae What has bright vermilion eyes, two wings, and an extraordinary fondness for over-ripe fruit? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1574694725789-H6C13YFWEA1FKGRGW45V/fuitfliesinwine1500filter80.jpg Current Issue - Pumpkin eaters: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae Yeasty odors of fermenting fruit and wine vinegar lure scores of fruit flies and one fungus gnat to their death. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/18/bug-in-the-bathtub-nah-house-centipede-scutigera-coleoptrata monthly 0.5 2019-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1574083953594-KHD266GL2YZHEOULAPC3/housecentipedeclose1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug in the bathtub? Nah, house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata Strangely delicate and beautiful, but a bit creepy at the same time, house centipedes are common home invaders around the globe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1574084609402-SJQBHJGNQ83RW01EYIWB/housecentipede1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug in the bathtub? Nah, house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata ‘Centipede’ is a bit of a misnomer. They don’t really have 100 legs, but more like about 30. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/7/getting-by-on-five-can-losing-a-leg-save-a-life-leaffooted-bugs-leptoglossus-and-diactor-field-and-camel-crickets-gryllus-and-diestrammena monthly 0.5 2019-11-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1573154312596-D5RYK1ACK6QDUKIAJG0P/flag-footed+bug_1500.jpg Current Issue - Getting by on five - can losing a leg save a life? Leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus and Diactor, field and camel crickets, Gryllus and Diestrammena A fantastic tropical flag-footed bug shows off his remaining hind leg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1573154970194-T8AG6WVXLAQUWB9X9VUH/leaffootedclose1484.jpg Current Issue - Getting by on five - can losing a leg save a life? Leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus and Diactor, field and camel crickets, Gryllus and Diestrammena Leaffooted bugs here in the DMV sport impressive flags on their hind legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1573155080436-56BKT1QA1JGSPPCR95MN/cricketleg4_1500.jpg Current Issue - Getting by on five - can losing a leg save a life? Leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus and Diactor, field and camel crickets, Gryllus and Diestrammena Dropping a hind leg on the bathroom floor while avoiding capture was enough to make the paparazzi stop to snap a picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1573155137811-3OG5ADWGARO8SWUQE6CL/flagfootedclose_973.jpg Current Issue - Getting by on five - can losing a leg save a life? Leaffooted bugs, Leptoglossus and Diactor, field and camel crickets, Gryllus and Diestrammena What message does the flag on the hind tibia of Diactor convey to a would-be predator? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/4/leaffooted-lovers-leptoglossus-spp monthly 0.5 2019-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1572875969404-4VMTXWXB8XFJO08CK6B9/leafmatecorn3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Leaffooted lovers: Leptoglossus spp. The female leaffooted bug enjoys a tasty corn snack while engaged with her mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1572876402219-KZSV39U039TNFO27EJC7/leafnymph2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Leaffooted lovers: Leptoglossus spp. A gaggle of leaf-footed bug nymphs dines on my pumpkin vine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1572876462091-24P9TSCK7VNYQ4GLTYG3/leafootedeggs2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Leaffooted lovers: Leptoglossus spp. Apparently a stickler for detail, the mother leaffooted bug neatly lays her eggs in very straight rows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1572876547141-3YLR1HN52QUUO8GXBGLM/bugwithtachinideggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Leaffooted lovers: Leptoglossus spp. Uh oh, a doomed leaffooted bug has been visited by a tachinid fly. Larvae that hatch from eggs on its thorax will bore into the bug, consume its internal organs, and seal its fate. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/10/12/bugs-in-orange-and-black-defense-and-romance-of-the-gulf-fritillary-agraulis-vanillae monthly 0.5 2019-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570900841783-8KP6VGSSE4EUFHCBZ30E/gulffritcat1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Defense and romance of the Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae Striking contrasts of orange body and black spines may serve as a warning to predators to avoid making a meal of Gulf fritillary caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570901596484-EGLY3NV925S2JFXHT8KN/Passionflower2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Defense and romance of the Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae Flowers of the passion vine are among the most magnificent in the plant world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570901696217-855OI1Y94CVDH27Q3GPD/gulffritbest1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Defense and romance of the Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae The gorgeous Gulf fritillary butterfly harbors a couple of unpleasant surprises for any would-be predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570902002259-EIT4T5ULVYMHDD8QX0X9/Jack+o%27+Lantern.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Defense and romance of the Gulf fritillary, Agraulis vanillae https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/10/12/model-butterflies-pipevine-swallowtail-battus-philenor-and-polydamas-swallowtail-battus-polydamas monthly 0.5 2019-10-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570898728713-QLFP2OZNF0044IDP4RQJ/blackswallow2018_1500.jpg Current Issue - Model butterflies: Pipevine swallowtail, Battus philenor, and Polydamas swallowtail, Battus polydamas Color and pattern of the gorgeous pipevine swallowtail warn predators of a nasty meal should they dare to attack. Image credit: Dr. Paula M. Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/10/12/home-grown-mantid-carolina-mantid-stagmomantis-carolina monthly 0.5 2019-10-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570897889198-I9MKVISV3H4MKAHYTATT/carolinamantid1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Home grown mantid: Carolina mantid, Stagmomantis carolina A gorgeous Carolina mantid waits for a meal - or perhaps a mate who might be a dinner "guest". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570898488863-MY0FQ37AXDJO8BM0UJWS/carolina1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Home grown mantid: Carolina mantid, Stagmomantis carolina After emerging from the ootheca, tiny hatchlings take their first glimpse of a world full of wonderful morsels to eat and fearsome predators to be eaten by. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/10/7/bumble-bee-carpenter-bee-he-bee-she-bee-bumbus-spp-xylocopa-spp monthly 0.5 2020-11-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570453781134-OE9V6SAN8PHWVV2OKJ3F/malefemalecarp1500b.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, he bee, she bee: Bombus spp., Xylocopa spp. On a dewy morning, male (left) and female (right) carpenter bees await a warm-up from the brilliant autumn sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570454313256-8YGWIUY6WSS7XQ5I6LAP/Carpbeegallery1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, he bee, she bee: Bombus spp., Xylocopa spp. You may have seen the carpenter bee’s hole on the outside of your siding - here’s a look at the brood galleries on the inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570454035903-P8R0D1D7V0CFOL0XKKJL/carpenterabdo1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, he bee, she bee: Bombus spp., Xylocopa spp. Note the shiny hairless abdomen of the carpenter bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1570454105798-J829R411EPW47PME6CCE/Bumbleabdomen1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble bee, carpenter bee, he bee, she bee: Bombus spp., Xylocopa spp. Hair on the abdomen is a hallmark of the bumble bee. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/9/30/theyre-baaack-brown-marmorated-stink-bugs-halyomorpha-halys monthly 0.5 2019-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1569853068952-UFQDT3UA6DA4U4N4Y47Y/bmsbsmall3_1500.jpg Current Issue - They’re baaack! Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs, Halyomorpha halys After a good year of plundering crops and fruit and dodging predators and parasitoids, numbers of stink bugs invading homes is on the rise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1569853096110-52VQ95VCK9VQPLKQRDNL/stinkassault1500.jpg Current Issue - They’re baaack! Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs, Halyomorpha halys Stink bugs preparing to overwinter release aggregation pheromones. This assembly call directs stink bugs to potential hibernal refuges. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/9/23/searching-for-red-admiral-caterpillars-vanessa-atalanta monthly 0.5 2019-09-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1569245001587-81IZ1CXZQ37RXPPLW1GH/redadmiraladult1500.jpg Current Issue - Searching for Red Admiral caterpillars, Vanessa atalanta A red admiral appears to survey the surrounding landscape from a small branch. Is it seeking a mate or getting ready to search for food? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1569245410403-B2QUM3OV51W2NFTT1NCP/redadcat_adj.jpg Current Issue - Searching for Red Admiral caterpillars, Vanessa atalanta This mature red admiral caterpillar will soon form a chrysalis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/9/16/a-sunflower-surprise-silvery-checkerspot-chlosyne-nycteis monthly 0.5 2019-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1568636841743-S5GGHIMFWYR7WB7VXBWQ/silverycheckerspot1_1315adj.jpg Current Issue - A sunflower surprise: Silvery checkerspot, Chlosyne nycteis A tiny silvery checkerspot caterpillar glides across the leaf’s surface on delicate strands of silk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1568636955159-L8XDUSY2Z9YRJSWFL10W/silverycheckerspot2_844adj.jpg Current Issue - A sunflower surprise: Silvery checkerspot, Chlosyne nycteis A phalanx of stout spines helps protect the checkerspot caterpillar from the jaws of hungry predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/9/5/old-world-mantis-with-new-world-tastes-european-mantis-mantis-religiosa monthly 0.5 2019-09-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567706051196-PVX7MHZ9WFTC4AUMOL0S/mrpreg1500.jpg Current Issue - Old World mantis with New World tastes: European Mantis, Mantis religiosa A small black spot often with a white center on the inside of each front leg provides a quick clue to separate the European mantis from other species found in our region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567706413514-YS9HK92K5Y88AW1Z7Q5K/savetheleg1500.jpg Current Issue - Old World mantis with New World tastes: European Mantis, Mantis religiosa This European mantis finds brown marmorated stink bugs delicious. Mantises are part of Mother Nature’s hit squad turning back the tide of invasive pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567706508082-ESQEKD0I3IRLKDG492P1/mrootheca1500.jpg Current Issue - Old World mantis with New World tastes: European Mantis, Mantis religiosa This brown egg case, or ootheca, contains scores of eggs that will survive the winter and hatch next spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/9/2/tent-caterpillars-everywhere-nah-fall-webworm-hyphantria-cunea monthly 0.5 2019-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567437045382-3R1FEZWEDA29I03BT60Y/1fallwebwormdam2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tent caterpillars everywhere? Nah - Fall Webworm, Hyphantria cunea An explosive season for fall webworms finds trees throughout our region festooned with silken webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567437491264-ELCBHK7EOPJ9G7GH3O04/2etclargetent1500.jpg Current Issue - Tent caterpillars everywhere? Nah - Fall Webworm, Hyphantria cunea Eastern tent caterpillars are spring feeders whose tents wind-up in the crotches of branches on preferred hosts like cherry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567437569631-RHVWTTAC3GKN4YVWYBH3/3falww350_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tent caterpillars everywhere? Nah - Fall Webworm, Hyphantria cunea Inside the webs, fall webworm caterpillars devour leaves and deposit tiny mounds of frass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1567437694387-9EJ3QGKXX4GGCXS1NASJ/4fwwpara2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tent caterpillars everywhere? Nah - Fall Webworm, Hyphantria cunea Larvae of parasitic wasps emerge from the body of a fall webworm after devouring its internal organs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/8/26/trails-of-despair-for-wild-silk-moth-caterpillars-orangestriped-oakworm-anisota-senatoria-and-greenstriped-mapleworm-dryocampa-rubicunda monthly 0.5 2019-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1566824801203-OMXLBZRNUPPRDWOPISLE/oakwormlarge1500.jpg Current Issue - Trails of despair for wild silk moth caterpillars: Orangestriped Oakworm, Anisota senatoria, and Greenstriped mapleworm, Dryocampa rubicunda Orange racing stripes and a pair of fleshy horns behind the head make the oakworm one cool looking caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1566825249482-6IRD2FUZPVXNNPW1OTZT/orangestiped+oakworm+adult1500.jpg Current Issue - Trails of despair for wild silk moth caterpillars: Orangestriped Oakworm, Anisota senatoria, and Greenstriped mapleworm, Dryocampa rubicunda Orangestriped oakworms grow up to be handsome moths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1566825563699-HNZ08TYW6PZ1ZDP36BDX/oakwormdefoliation1500.jpg Current Issue - Trails of despair for wild silk moth caterpillars: Orangestriped Oakworm, Anisota senatoria, and Greenstriped mapleworm, Dryocampa rubicunda In some years oakworms will strip oaks of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1566825653484-A64UDI59BX9K7CGOHQ2Y/oakwormfrass1500.jpg Current Issue - Trails of despair for wild silk moth caterpillars: Orangestriped Oakworm, Anisota senatoria, and Greenstriped mapleworm, Dryocampa rubicunda Telltale pellets of frass (insect poop, a technical term) beneath a tree can mark the presence of caterpillars feeding above. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/8/2/admire-but-do-not-eat-elderberry-borer-desmocerus-palliatus monthly 0.5 2019-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564768618406-Y36P3N5R499RMBTN0KTA/elderberry+longhorn1500.jpg Current Issue - Admire but do not eat: Elderberry borer, Desmocerus palliatus Iridescent cobalt blue and gold colors may warn predators not to consider the elderberry borer as a meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564768916791-SAY1V7W237W8LLHGR89X/Elderberry1500.jpg Current Issue - Admire but do not eat: Elderberry borer, Desmocerus palliatus Elderberry, the plant host for elderberry borer larvae, grows in marshy meadows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564769015992-BNRHGIGDHPYGHQMDDTBX/lycidbeetles1500.jpg Current Issue - Admire but do not eat: Elderberry borer, Desmocerus palliatus Net-winged beetles are members of a mimicry ring bearing contrasting patterns of light and dark colors. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/8/2/blossom-beetles-flower-longhorn-beetles-subfamily-lepturinae monthly 0.5 2019-08-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564767732903-YJ9Q3ZB92B7GH7SUCRPZ/flowerlonghorn2019_1500.jpg Current Issue - Blossom beetles: Flower Longhorn Beetles, subfamily Lepturinae Note the dusting of yellow pollen on the back, legs, and mouthparts of this pretty longhorn beetle. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/8/2/salt-of-the-earth-salt-of-the-human-swallowtails-and-brush-footed-butterflies-papilionidae-and-nymphalidae monthly 0.5 2019-08-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564766032547-H80VCQ529L1JZTLF9RF4/redspottedpurple6_1500.jpg Current Issue - Salt of the earth, salt of the human: Swallowtails and brush-footed butterflies, Papilionidae and Nymphalidae Red-spotted purple butterflies are often seen in light gaps in the forest. Are they simply basking in the sun or foraging for salt deposits in the soil? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564766849305-8893NZGBIXV5228B1O3R/fritillarysweat1500.jpg Current Issue - Salt of the earth, salt of the human: Swallowtails and brush-footed butterflies, Papilionidae and Nymphalidae A shoulder glistening with perspiration provides much needed salt to a fearless tawny emperor butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/7/29/nettles-and-poop-on-the-menu-for-the-eastern-comma-butterfly-polygonia-comma monthly 0.5 2019-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564405260247-DYEWA9QTPOSGLATK4YUD/comma2019_1500.jpg Current Issue - Nettles and poop on the menu for the Eastern Comma butterfly, Polygonia comma Angled wings with the mottled pattern of a dead leaf on the underside help the comma butterfly escape the searching eyes of predators. Note the bright comma-shaped mark on the hindwing that gives the comma its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1564405693554-1JFSH4EWFAUMV13CJ7XY/commalarv1500.jpg Current Issue - Nettles and poop on the menu for the Eastern Comma butterfly, Polygonia comma Stout spines help defend the comma caterpillar from attacks from hungry predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/7/22/swallowtail-soiree-eastern-tiger-swallowtail-butterfly-papilio-glaucus monthly 0.5 2019-07-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563801587923-JFLWT948J0YHQ3YSEIUE/easterntigershrews1500.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree: Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly, Papilio glaucus It’s easy to see why it’s called a tiger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563801963737-NC98LBQJKNQQAWB3JVPS/tigerearly2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree: Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly, Papilio glaucus Young tiger swallowtail larvae resemble bird droppings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563803272163-C9O8MV4DOV0WI6OMK27G/easterntigerlarvakarin648.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree: Eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly, Papilio glaucus Large creepy eyespots of older swallowtail caterpillars frighten would-be predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/7/15/beetles-that-go-bump-in-the-night-asiatic-garden-beetles-maladera-castanea monthly 0.5 2019-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563195608630-MVUTX5GWDOKD9WGC62IC/asiaticgarden1500b.jpg Current Issue - Beetles that go bump in the night: Asiatic Garden Beetles, Maladera Castanea A late night search of my plants reveals the culprit making leaves disappear, Asiatic garden beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563195850435-0YZ6QBW436UL54NW8RKX/asiaticgbsunflower1500.jpg Current Issue - Beetles that go bump in the night: Asiatic Garden Beetles, Maladera Castanea Not much was left after Asiatic garden beetles finished eating my sunflowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1563195990880-NES4Y92TKCY79LZ47GY3/whitegruboriental1500.jpg Current Issue - Beetles that go bump in the night: Asiatic Garden Beetles, Maladera Castanea Larvae of Japanese beetles and Asiatic garden beetles feed on plant roots and are called white grubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/7/1/the-silk-moth-summer-continues-promethea-silk-moth-callosamia-promethea monthly 0.5 2019-07-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561989058253-5I9B4B043IC66DGTYMJU/prometheaburghardt1500.jpg Current Issue - The silk moth summer continues: Promethea silk moth, Callosamia promethea Adult Promethea are magnificent. They can often be seen in the morning resting on buildings or vegetation near sources of nighttime illumination. Photo credit: Karin Burghardt https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/7/1/just-in-time-for-the-4th-of-july-firefly-fireworks-lampyridae monthly 0.5 2019-07-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561985141330-M2AMBYQV2T4O01700DJI/light7_1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for the 4th of July: Firefly fireworks - Lampyridae Giant eyes help fireflies detect flashes of their mates. Lightly colored terminal segments of the abdomen house the organs that produce the magical light of the firefly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561985468102-KHGLPYLT20VSVTN0N3Q9/glowworm1500.jpg Current Issue - Just in time for the 4th of July: Firefly fireworks - Lampyridae Glowworms, the larval stage of lightning bugs, patrol the soil in search of worms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates that are their prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/6/24/a-season-of-silk-moths-continues-with-cercropia-moth-hyalophora-cecropia monthly 0.5 2019-06-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561384818162-M42TM9KP1BJ6ZDL8MIFA/cercropia1500_KBurghardt.jpg Current Issue - A season of silk moths continues with Cecropia moth, Hyalophora cecropia Some say Cecropia is the most beautiful of all silk moths. Hard to argue with that. Photo credit: Karin Burghardt https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561387715372-Y4X0TJLG3HDJZFLGT4S5/Mating+Cercropia1500.jpg Current Issue - A season of silk moths continues with Cecropia moth, Hyalophora cecropia This mating pair was discovered in April on a viburnum at a nursery in New Jersey. Photo credit: Gordon and Sheri Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1561387585352-TZ6W8WJDJQZE1SZBLRBR/cercropiamalefemale1500.jpg Current Issue - A season of silk moths continues with Cecropia moth, Hyalophora cecropia Large feathery antennae of the male, right, enable him to detect minute amounts of sex pheromones released by the female over surprisingly large distances. Notice the much smaller and less intricate antennae of the female, left. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/6/10/blossom-busters-oriental-beetle-anomala-orientalis monthly 0.5 2019-06-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1560182504464-8O2RPNTZ2VNM9MQA6ECX/orientaldamage1500.jpg Current Issue - Blossom busters: Oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis Despoiling petals of my coneflowers is just another meal for the Oriental beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1560182771030-4UM4TJEMA2WWENCTMW05/grub1500.jpg Current Issue - Blossom busters: Oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis Like other species of white grubs, Oriental beetle larvae consume the nutritious roots of plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/6/10/coffee-and-long-legged-flies-dolichopodidae monthly 0.5 2019-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1560180331730-2MXXED9YX91HM4VM1RZX/dolichopodideats_1500underh2o.jpg Current Issue - Coffee and long-legged flies, Dolichopodidae Dolichopodids can often be seen holding some unidentifiable morsel of invertebrate flesh in their mouthparts as they rest upon leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/6/3/spitting-image-meadow-spittle-bug-philaenus-spumarius monthly 0.5 2019-06-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1559577615928-7QOG5QRYLSBLRT65DJCH/spittleadult1500.jpg Current Issue - Spitting image: Meadow spittle bug, Philaenus spumarius Adult spittle bugs are rather drab in color but blend in nicely with leaves and branches of meadow vegetation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1559578469040-HFA11JLSVMPXOWEGCMKF/spittle3_1261.jpg Current Issue - Spitting image: Meadow spittle bug, Philaenus spumarius A cute spittle bug nymph wonders what happened to its bubbles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/5/27/eater-of-eaters-of-thistles-and-other-plants-spined-soldier-bug-podisus-maculiventris monthly 0.5 2019-05-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558963685097-Z1WYGCEGN2894WKIFJWU/spinedsoldierthistletortoise2019_1500.jpg Current Issue - Eater of eaters of thistles and other plants: Spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris The piercing beak of the spined soldier bug brings the life of a thistle tortoise beetle to an end. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558964098885-XWYY7BUKA9UNI3K5Q505/spinedsoldiermpt_adj.jpg Current Issue - Eater of eaters of thistles and other plants: Spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris And here’s how the spined soldier bug got its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558964353099-E1UXZWODRJPFTR5LC05R/actpredation2_1500adj.jpg Current Issue - Eater of eaters of thistles and other plants: Spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris A sneaky soldier bug discovers a butterfly in its most vulnerable stage, the chrysalis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558964443461-UDABAUUJ5MHU8S8QV1T5/soldierkillmonarch1500.jpg Current Issue - Eater of eaters of thistles and other plants: Spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris Oh no, not the monarch! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/5/20/eaters-of-thistles-thistle-tortoise-beetle-cassida-rubiginosa-and-canada-thistle-bud-weevil-larinus-planus monthly 0.5 2019-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558456809216-FU0ZZFV866TMHKUISG51/thistletortoise1500.jpg Current Issue - Eaters of thistles: Thistle tortoise beetle, Cassida rubiginosa, and Canada thistle bud weevil, Larinus planus It’s easy to see how the pretty thistle tortoise beetle gets its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558368781022-GG2QHZMTTED7NFD5AW3T/thistletortweevil2019_1500.jpg Current Issue - Eaters of thistles: Thistle tortoise beetle, Cassida rubiginosa, and Canada thistle bud weevil, Larinus planus Combined feeding of the tortoise beetle and weevil devastate thistle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1558456911458-BKLBN2IQPIVMLKHXCSNM/thistlebudweevil2019_1500.jpg Current Issue - Eaters of thistles: Thistle tortoise beetle, Cassida rubiginosa, and Canada thistle bud weevil, Larinus planus Soon, when flower buds appear, the thistle bud weevil will deposit her eggs within the bud and her larvae will devour the seeds. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/5/13/tiny-red-spots-before-my-eyes-clover-mites-bryobia-praetiosa monthly 0.5 2019-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557753390793-34TZYVZWC8FKUJZVELDG/clover1_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Tiny red spots before my eyes: Clover mites, Bryobia praetiosa Eight tiny legs help clover mites scuttle across a sidewalk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557753606692-QHGG7CCAR5Y99JN0CHXP/clovermitefield1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny red spots before my eyes: Clover mites, Bryobia praetiosa A fine patch of clover spawns a fine crop of clover mites in my lawn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557753671724-0PWK25NO8P6RXTXLPP3O/clovermitedam2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny red spots before my eyes: Clover mites, Bryobia praetiosa White stipples on leaves of plants like clover mark the spots where clover mites have ruptured cells and removed the green tissue within. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557753760091-2V6HVYCHXV2IOB09NP5Y/cloverstain_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Tiny red spots before my eyes: Clover mites, Bryobia praetiosa When squashed on a wall or curtain, clover mites generate a rather remarkable and somewhat imaginative reddish stain. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/5/6/be-on-the-lookout-for-lunas-luna-moths-actias-luna monthly 0.5 2019-05-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557150355242-BNY0IOCCIEM3X16FIT2L/lunafalseyespots1500.jpg Current Issue - Be on the lookout for Lunas: Luna moths, Actias luna False eyespots on the hind wings and a curly smile on the leading edge of the front wings may confuse a predator like a bird or direct its attack to the hind wings where the strike may not be lethal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557151201054-FJHKKRZ1VRYVSTQ05YB6/lunaantennae1500.jpg Current Issue - Be on the lookout for Lunas: Luna moths, Actias luna Feathery antennae enable the male Luna moth to detect sex pheromones released by a female moth ready to accept her mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1557150903668-SWKSOBJWHDVD2765DCYC/lunacocoon1500.jpg Current Issue - Be on the lookout for Lunas: Luna moths, Actias luna On the ground beneath its host plant, a Luna moth caterpillar has spun its cocoon complete with some leaves to help it avoid detection by predators. Here it will pupate, rest for the winter, and emerge as a gorgeous moth in spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/4/29/termites-take-flight-eastern-subterranean-termites-reticulitermes-flavipes monthly 0.5 2019-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1556543260277-CT7W9BAS7CUVAI08IP4Y/Reticulitermes+Queen+%26+King+B.L.+Thorne+copyright+photo_adj.jpg Current Issue - Termites take flight: Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes Meet the royals. The smaller king is on the left and his queen on the right. During her reign as queen, which may be decades, she will lay hundreds of thousands of eggs. Photo credit: Dr. Barbara L. Thorne (copyrighted) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1556543992760-RPM2XDQY4RDBH6AYR9VV/easternworkersoldier3_adj.jpg Current Issue - Termites take flight: Eastern subterranean termites, Reticulitermes flavipes Eastern subterranean termite soldiers have enlarged heads with powerful jaws. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/4/22/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-27-2019 monthly 0.5 2019-04-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555938297181-W7ZZS9EJ5ZBHXMVAAHD1/mddayfun-adj.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day 2019 Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555938965535-Y6PZUGTOYGT942XD29Y1/giant+lubber1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 Adult lubber grasshopper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555939145245-RMNMSNG8G5C9CQOJSPXK/Vietnamese+walking+stick_1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555939254333-CKCGR002P9O9O3CY8E1L/Australian+walking+stick_1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555939703398-QUC7JPCYHXHHGEB51XZM/Whip+scorpion-adj.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 The whip scorpion employs an active, and at times smelly, defense. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555939746897-7TKSPD66H24EVQV6VIE6/blue+death-feigning_1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 The Blue death feigning beetle prefers playing possum. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555940375607-W5F4QYWCAVTESFBOVMPH/lanternflyhand1500.jpg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 27, 2019 The spotted lanternfly is an invasive pests that feeds on more than 70 species of trees and vines. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/4/15/alpha-gal-and-the-lone-star-tick-amblyomma-americanum monthly 0.5 2019-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555329704342-QUFIZ1HDT9DV3D03LLTA/1_3ticks1100highlightadj.jpg Current Issue - Alpha-gal and the Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum A trio of trouble. Clockwise from the top: Blacklegged Tick (vector of Lyme and other diseases), Lone Star Tick (vector of alpha-gal and other diseases), American Dog Tick (vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and others). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555331233444-X2WR2KVU5R6EJXQ2HCZP/tickquest1476adj.jpg Current Issue - Alpha-gal and the Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum Ticks will climb up vegetation and reach out with forelegs to encounter a host. This behavior is called questing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555330393340-QC2YVWUA0VFB38PVJ5M0/lonestarrange.jpg Current Issue - Alpha-gal and the Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum Range of the Lone Star tick in the United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1555331439698-HWQ74OA6CSCRU4DQYQ18/engorgedtick1500.jpg Current Issue - Alpha-gal and the Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum Fully engorged ticks are enormous. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/4/8/busy-by-day-but-what-do-mason-bees-do-at-night-mason-bees-osmia-spp monthly 0.5 2019-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1554728423203-NQLSOJ3NHUL2PA5E6OCK/blueorchardpollen1500.jpg Current Issue - Busy by day but what do mason bees do at night? Mason bees - Osmia spp. Now that’s a lot of pollen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1554728520835-J41KUMZB3JV3F2JWY190/masonpollenballs_1500ADJ.jpg Current Issue - Busy by day but what do mason bees do at night? Mason bees - Osmia spp. Mason bees line each tube with glorious yellow pollen cakes, food for their developing offspring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/4/1/wasp-or-fly-stilt-legged-flies-mimetic-micropezidae monthly 0.5 2019-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1554123176058-5UJOULSAP5VQN536IVCM/micropezid_adj1356.jpg Current Issue - Wasp or fly? Stilt-legged flies, mimetic Micropezidae With front legs outstretched a stilt-legged fly does its best imitation of a wasp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/3/25/gorgeous-grasshoppers-of-the-costa-rican-rainforest-lubber-grasshoppers-romaleidae-and-airplane-grasshoppers-eumastacidae monthly 0.5 2019-03-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1553516732776-X06Z1A008NAQXMJUE4AR/costaricagrasshopper1500.jpg Current Issue - Gorgeous Grasshoppers of the Costa Rican Rainforest: Lubber Grasshoppers, Romaleidae, and Airplane Grasshoppers, Eumastacidae Romaleid grasshoppers are regal rainforest residents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1553517387720-JLXHVQELR9F3N1G9TEFK/airplane1500.jpg Current Issue - Gorgeous Grasshoppers of the Costa Rican Rainforest: Lubber Grasshoppers, Romaleidae, and Airplane Grasshoppers, Eumastacidae Spines lining the legs of this airplane grasshopper could deliver a surprise to an uninitiated predator. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/3/12/lichen-what-im-seeing-tropical-katydids-longhorned-beetles-and-lanternflies-blending-with-features-of-bark monthly 0.5 2019-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1552419395287-WXWOHN3IDOOOPH9AZACS/katylichen1500.jpg Current Issue - Lichen what I’m seeing: Tropical Katydids, Longhorned Beetles, and Lanternflies blending with features of bark On the bark of a lichen laden tree, this katydid disappears in plain sight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1552419867748-SB9601LE3UK2KBGJTYOK/katylichen2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Lichen what I’m seeing: Tropical Katydids, Longhorned Beetles, and Lanternflies blending with features of bark In a hand, the wondrous colors and patterns of a lichen mimic katydid are more easily seen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/3/4/destination-central-cordillera-costa-rice-a-visit-with-giant-rainforest-recyclers-polydesmid-millipedes monthly 0.5 2019-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1551711130921-ZJRBKTIBQUP5GLN4Y0EP/pythonmillipede1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Central Cordillera, Costa Rica: A visit with giant rainforest recyclers, Polydesmid millipedes Python millipedes are striking recyclers of vegetation in the rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1551711385227-EA8QV0HM4DZDV3R1C2FY/milliball1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Central Cordillera, Costa Rica: A visit with giant rainforest recyclers, Polydesmid millipedes Curling into a tight ball is a common defense of millipedes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/2/21/return-to-guatuso-costa-rica-trouble-for-stingless-bees-the-silver-orb-weaver-argiope-argentata monthly 0.5 2019-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550782662088-OX83JNOOW7HN54UL8UB9/silverorb2019_PS1500.jpg Current Issue - Return to Guatuso, Costa Rica: Trouble for stingless bees - the silver orb weaver, 'Argiope argentata' The rear end of this silver orb weaver resembles a fiendish creature. Can this confuse a predator or deflect a lethal attack away from the spider’s head? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550782989535-PIO15BHPBCXO852RVT2L/silverorbmale2019_PS1500.jpg Current Issue - Return to Guatuso, Costa Rica: Trouble for stingless bees - the silver orb weaver, 'Argiope argentata' A tiny male silver orb weaver hides in the web a safe distance from his mate. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/2/12/destination-guatuso-costa-rica-stingless-bees-mariolas-in-the-rainforest-tribe-meliponini monthly 0.5 2019-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550002553565-XBNY62HIYM8O81YN281E/stinglesscr52019_adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Guatuso, Costa Rica: Stingless bees, Mariolas, in the rainforest (Tribe, Meliponini) No getting by these Mariola soldiers without a fight as they guard the entrance to the colony. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/2/12/return-to-volcn-del-toro-costa-rica-dashing-velvet-ants-mutillidae monthly 0.5 2019-02-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550783144781-UQSD24ZO22KX6BREWPEY/velvetcr72019_987adj.jpg Current Issue - Return to Volcán del Toro, Costa Rica: Dashing velvet ants, Mutillidae Easily recognized color patterns of velvet ants may warn predators not to attack lest they suffer a fierce and memorable sting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550001565072-5ZF9J296R714KJR6Y9HO/velvetstingasig1500.jpg Current Issue - Return to Volcán del Toro, Costa Rica: Dashing velvet ants, Mutillidae Check out the size of the stinger on our local velvet ant, fondly known as the “cow killer.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1550001617843-CY3LRSJTRVXZ1EMTVW2A/twospotted20192_adj+darker.jpg Current Issue - Return to Volcán del Toro, Costa Rica: Dashing velvet ants, Mutillidae Two patches of white on the wing covers of the two-spotted tiger beetle strongly resemble the white patches on the abdomen of a nearby velvet ant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/2/11/destination-vulcan-del-toro-costa-rica-two-spotted-tiger-beetle-pseudoxycheila-tarsalis monthly 0.5 2019-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1549894547211-6WG18RZPNTN49GJE16EG/twospotted2019_PMS.jpg Current Issue - Destination Volcán del Toro, Costa Rica: Two-spotted tiger beetle, 'Pseudoxycheila tarsalis' Clever defenses help protect the bold two-spotted tiger beetle from its enemies on the rainforest floor. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/1/21/destination-vietnam-taking-it-slow-with-the-vietnamese-walking-stick-medauroidea-extradentata monthly 0.5 2019-02-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1548086158244-KHL0FPM5YAE8JY59E7IS/vietwalk1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Vietnam: Taking it slow with the Vietnamese Walking Stick, 'Medauroidea extradentata' By remaining motionless for hours, this stick insect’s masquerade has evolved to deceive visually astute predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1548086339573-TFV92IM8AKJQN059D3VJ/vieteggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Vietnam: Taking it slow with the Vietnamese Walking Stick, 'Medauroidea extradentata' Rather large eggs of the Vietnamese Walking Stick resemble seeds that are collected by ants. Eggs are taken underground where parasitic wasps are unlikely to find them, thereby increasing the stick insect’s prospects for survival. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/1/21/destination-malaysia-home-of-the-giant-leaf-insect-phyllium-giganteum monthly 0.5 2019-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1548085386986-L2K7O7X79NC8RR5SKQ56/giantleafinsect1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Home of the Giant Leaf Insect, 'Phyllium giganteum' Just two faded leaves or is one a leaf insect? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1548085750609-HAE2PSEIOFKVX3079COJ/3giantstickinsects1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Malaysia: Home of the Giant Leaf Insect, 'Phyllium giganteum' How many leaf insects can you see in this picture? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/1/21/oil-bees-if-you-please-centris-nitida monthly 0.5 2019-01-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1548078784355-92TXBXKWK4S6FFAV1ZOA/Centris_adj.jpg Current Issue - Oil bees, if you please: Centris nitida Powerful jaws grasp the base of a flower petal providing traction necessary for Centris nitida to collect floral oils from the Stigmaphyllon blossom. Photo credit: Dr. Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/1/14/destination-sanibel-island-florida-taking-down-air-potato-air-potato-leaf-beetle-lilioceris-cheni monthly 0.5 2019-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1547473135857-7YGU7WJEXVZCT3VZW35Q/airpotatobeetleexcel_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sanibel Island, Florida – Taking down air potato: Air Potato Leaf Beetle, 'Lilioceris cheni' Beautiful Air Potato Leaf Beetles wage war on invasive air potatoes in Florida. Photo credit: Dr. Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1547473407934-3JCYXTFGCIT2WYXV0KEO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Destination Sanibel Island, Florida – Taking down air potato: Air Potato Leaf Beetle, 'Lilioceris cheni' By chewing holes in leaves of air potatoes, leaf beetle larvae and adults help put a beat-down on this invasive vine. Photo credit: Dr. Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/1/7/destination-sarasota-florida-to-kill-a-cycad-cycad-scale-aulacaspis-yasumatsui monthly 0.5 2019-01-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1546878617574-QTPH4R8LP1XLEKO7VEM2/cycadscaleclose2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sarasota, Florida: To kill a cycad - Cycad scale, ‘Aulacaspis yasumatsui’ Cycad scales can reach astounding densities on the fronds of sago palms and other cycads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1546880461450-L7BSY4WQ6BVI91FXYWYD/cycadscale1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sarasota, Florida: To kill a cycad - Cycad scale, ‘Aulacaspis yasumatsui’ With populations of scales in the myriad thousands, the sago palm on the left may soon meet the fate of its partner on the right. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/12/31/destination-sarasota-florida-green-and-gorgeous-green-orchid-bee-euglossa-dilemma monthly 0.5 2018-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1546291145139-SOGUKZLTH98YHYQANNDR/greenorchidmale2_adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sarasota, Florida: Green and gorgeous Green orchid bee, 'Euglossa dilemma' The arrival of green orchid bees in Florida has added one more flamboyant insect to a long list of arrivals from other lands. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/12/17/deck-the-halls-with-boughs-of-hollyand-the-native-holly-leafminer-phytomyza-ilicicola-and-holly-berry-midge-asphondylia-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2018-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545052703689-ITHRV3DHOQAEO6MH8YRE/1greenhollyberries2-1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' What’s up with the green berries on the holly tree? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545054149622-C3AU6BLPC6T06X4XUE7V/2Holly+leafminer1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' Adult holly leafminers resemble small houseflies. Image credit: J. A. Davidson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545053394764-BUQG2FA9BVX7N0ENCHWW/3hollylmexit1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' This snakelike gallery ends with a tiny hole, the escape hatch for the native holly leafminer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545053453757-5KP2GQVDDMKL04SH50GH/4hollylmdam7-1500.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' Feeding punctures on the leaf surface made by adult flies may cause leaves to curl. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545053671008-1QQHEXPRE1P65F0UDODL/hollyberry_midge_adult_l-226x169.jpg Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' Adult holly berry midges are small mosquito-like flies. Note the papery pupal case left behind on the holly berry after the midge emerges. Image credit: J. A. Davidson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1545054318619-96I0BJACCLLG70AHXGPP/Holly.gif Current Issue - Deck the halls with boughs of holly…and the Native holly leafminer, 'Phytomyza ilicicola', and Holly berry midge, 'Asphondylia ilicicola' https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/12/10/destination-sonoran-desert-a-time-to-sting-for-the-giant-hairy-desert-scorpion-hadrurus-arizonensis monthly 0.5 2018-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1544448063819-FX3UID7UO9JNGNXUQ2AE/hairydesertscorp1475.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sonoran Desert: A time to sting for the Giant Hairy Desert Scorpion, 'Hadrurus arizonensis' Pincer-like pedipalps at the front of the scorpion capture and hold prey while the sting at the rear end of the scorpion administers a dose of venom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1544448269237-DGXK2IY0W37QVSNIQ2I4/hairysting1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Sonoran Desert: A time to sting for the Giant Hairy Desert Scorpion, 'Hadrurus arizonensis' The scorpion’s sting is used for defense against predators and for subduing prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/11/30/destination-mojave-desert-defying-death-by-playing-dead-blue-death-feigning-beetle-asbolus-verrucosus monthly 0.5 2018-12-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543605971751-5727D0N0R39PWL1LFG2D/blue+death-feigning_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Mojave Desert: Defying death by playing dead, Blue Death-Feigning Beetle, 'Asbolus verrucosus' The beautiful blue patina coating the blue-death feigning beetle is a layer of wax that helps the beetle avoid desiccation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543606443362-VQNMLTTM3Y43TR0G1S1Y/Blue+death-feigning+ambling_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Mojave Desert: Defying death by playing dead, Blue Death-Feigning Beetle, 'Asbolus verrucosus' When not playing dead, the blue death-feigning beetle ambles about its Zoo habitat looking for a free lunch. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/11/26/destination-corkscrew-swamp-sanctuary-florida-mighty-defenses-of-the-eastern-lubber-grasshopper-romalea-microptera monthly 0.5 2018-11-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543236662097-AL0SGQP1NFUHC3RQ22AJ/giant+lubber1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida: Mighty defenses of the eastern lubber grasshopper, 'Romalea microptera' Lubber locusts are among the largest of insects found in the United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543237161839-DDSMXAX9EZ0PPWUXSHJ5/spines1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida: Mighty defenses of the eastern lubber grasshopper, 'Romalea microptera' Wicked spines on legs can stab the flesh of attackers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543237412883-7RUFABMQ5D93R4FYIK80/tobaccojuice912.jpg Current Issue - Destination Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida: Mighty defenses of the eastern lubber grasshopper, 'Romalea microptera' When threatened, lubbers and other grasshoppers will regurgitate noxious gut contents colloquially known as ‘tobacco juice’ that may be repellent to predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1543237458113-TEDH56AE7D8R75SEV056/spiracle1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Florida: Mighty defenses of the eastern lubber grasshopper, 'Romalea microptera' An opening on the side of the lubber’s body emits a noxious froth produced by glands within the exoskeleton. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/11/19/destination-hutchison-island-florida-a-visit-with-the-twostriped-walkingstick-anisomorpha-buprestoides monthly 0.5 2018-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1542635565454-0YBOIBOFWUGL282XSKQW/walkingstick1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Hutchison Island, Florida: a visit with the Twostriped walkingstick, 'Anisomorpha buprestoides' A female twostriped walkingstick dwarfs the male on her back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/11/12/destination-new-south-wales-australia-a-visit-with-the-macleays-spectre-extatosoma-tiaratum monthly 0.5 2018-11-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1542031119903-1EURG6FJKGURVQ2V246H/female1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, 'Extatosoma tiaratum' Is that a dead leaf or an insect clinging to a branch? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1542030794663-7J4LZW1O8HNK56861DFS/male1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, 'Extatosoma tiaratum' Smaller male Australian walking sticks also use expanded body parts and unusual postures to deceive predators by resembling withered parts of plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1542030907650-0QC1XZHKS7SFQFZX2444/defendingattack1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, 'Extatosoma tiaratum' A startling display of bristling spines warns predators to think twice before attacking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1542030968653-W9UQ5V1IU8EP5MQ0WX80/hindleg1145.jpg Current Issue - Destination New South Wales, Australia: a visit with the Macleay’s spectre, 'Extatosoma tiaratum' A perimeter lined with stout spines turns the hind leg of the walking stick into a formidable weapon. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/11/5/giant-bloodthirsty-mosquitoes-nah-crane-flies-tipulidae monthly 0.5 2018-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1541424814369-9ZENXD0XCRXEYSP5X00Q/craneflysideveiw1473.jpg Current Issue - Giant, Bloodthirsty Mosquitoes? Nah, Crane Flies – Tipulidae Is this the face only a mother could love? Lacking the flesh-piercing proboscis of a mosquito, mouthparts of crane flies are better suited for lapping-up liquids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1541425056857-2LEWJ2LQPG2QVEISW4GD/3tiplarva1500.jpg Current Issue - Giant, Bloodthirsty Mosquitoes? Nah, Crane Flies – Tipulidae Crane fly larvae, also called leatherjackets, are often found in soil or rotting wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/10/25/bugs-in-orange-and-black-a-spooky-halloween-trick-or-treat-for-predators-small-and-large-milkweed-bugs-lygaeus-kalmii-and-oncopeltus-fasciatus monthly 0.5 2018-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1540495349851-IU0GDKXM3INXR1Y0KKLP/largemilkweedhorde2018_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: A spooky Halloween trick or treat for predators - Small and large milkweed bugs, 'Lygaeus kalmii' and 'Oncopeltus fasciatus' Predators beware of an unpleasant dining experience if you ignore the spooky Halloween colors displayed by large milkweed bug nymphs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1540495550430-WXMIARXC2P6M2RQX1HQA/smallmilkweed2018_1069.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: A spooky Halloween trick or treat for predators - Small and large milkweed bugs, 'Lygaeus kalmii' and 'Oncopeltus fasciatus' Small milkweed bugs are members of the cabal of milkweed feeders that sequester noxious cardiac glycosides from their host plant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/10/18/friendly-velvety-home-invaders-soldier-beetle-larvae-chauliognathus-spp monthly 0.5 2018-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1539888024176-8ODK18Q7HP74LTX1I1PT/soldierlarv3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Friendly velvety home invaders: Soldier beetle larvae, 'Chauliognathus' spp. Velvety soldier beetle larvae eat many ground and plant dwelling pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1539888193644-2DLSACZ0UX9QZONEYJ8K/soldier1499.jpg Current Issue - Friendly velvety home invaders: Soldier beetle larvae, 'Chauliognathus' spp. Adult soldier beetles are frequent visitors to flowers in autumn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/10/15/good-morning-wolfie-wolf-spiderlings-lycosidae monthly 0.5 2018-10-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1539613033274-49JT59IIMP90068ZL4U9/2wolfandegg1500.jpg Current Issue - Good morning, Wolfie: Wolf spiderlings, Lycosidae Beautiful wolf spider mothers tote their egg cases slung beneath the abdomen to reduce chances of their young falling victim to predators or parasitoids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1539613602401-HHYIVL4UT2JNM2J12BZ8/1wolf2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Good morning, Wolfie: Wolf spiderlings, Lycosidae In a basement room, a mother wolf spider carries dozens of spiderlings on her back until they are old enough to fend for themselves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/9/25/pugnacious-paper-wasps-polistes-metricus-or-maybe-polistes-parametricus monthly 0.5 2018-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537902805309-R5B7CUBN4OKIY9GC8S25/paperwaspmetricus1500.jpg Current Issue - Pugnacious paper wasps: Polistes metricus or maybe Polistes parametricus A break in a brick wall makes the perfect place for Polistes to build their nest. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury, UMD https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/9/24/girl-scouts-and-vagabonds-variegated-fritillary-ltigteuptoieta-claudialtigt monthly 0.5 2018-09-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537793302859-7YBP4KZY718AGZV8I9FS/variegatedfrit_adj.jpg Current Issue - Girl Scouts and vagabonds: Variegated fritillary, Euptoieta claudia Fritillaries find butterfly weed irresistible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537793505878-HJUHUNE9GEQP3QRMJOPV/fritcat1500.jpg Current Issue - Girl Scouts and vagabonds: Variegated fritillary, Euptoieta claudia Violets throughout the garden are food for fritillary caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537793661112-E64AUS977D8UKDSSIT52/fritpup_adj.jpg Current Issue - Girl Scouts and vagabonds: Variegated fritillary, Euptoieta claudia Within a breathtaking chrysalis, the caterpillar becomes a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/9/17/parsley-poacher-black-swallowtail-caterpillar-ipapilio-polyxenesi monthly 0.5 2018-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537190588600-A8U4YU2AVYATTMA6N85I/blackswallowtailovip1500.jpg Current Issue - Parsley poacher: Black swallowtail caterpillar, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> A female black swallowtail butterfly lays her eggs on dill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1537190997268-48K98WPS6X3WKQHFWQB3/blackswallowtaileggs1473.jpg Current Issue - Parsley poacher: Black swallowtail caterpillar, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> Tiny yellow, beach ball-like eggs deposited by the female butterfly soon hatch into hungry caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/9/8/humans-help-wasps-wasps-help-humans-four-toothed-mason-wasp-imonobia-quadridensi monthly 0.5 2018-09-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1536421762084-0HD7TF54HOOL2XAHVHKH/manobia3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Humans help wasps, wasps help humans: Four-toothed mason wasp, <i>Monobia quadridens</i> Pollination is one important ecosystem service provided by mason wasps like Monobia. Note the broad white band at the front of the abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1536422460748-M84Y0PCB4QE6WQLCREPN/bald1_1450.jpg Current Issue - Humans help wasps, wasps help humans: Four-toothed mason wasp, <i>Monobia quadridens</i> White bands at the end of the tail are features of the baldfaced hornet seen here, but are not found on the four-toothed mason wasp that wears a white band at the front end of its abdomen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/8/29/brush-foot-butterflies-dining-on-dung-nymphalidae monthly 0.5 2018-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1535561268462-ER9RQ8YG5HDQAKL0P39U/redspotneartrail_1500.jpg Current Issue - Brush-foot butterflies dining on dung: Nymphalidae The gorgeous red-spotted purple is part of a mimicry ring of darkly colored butterflies that resemble the noxious pipe-vine swallowtail. Photo credit: Paula M. Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1535561705720-HOP1VUH4K8CYT9N87DQ2/dungfeeders1500.jpg Current Issue - Brush-foot butterflies dining on dung: Nymphalidae A pearl crescent and common buckeye gain vital nutrients from another creature’s waste. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/8/27/a-good-year-for-monarchs-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2018-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1535374363735-K3PZQ1UY8KNNQF2IOEI8/monarchonsunflower-2_adj.jpg Current Issue - A Good Year for Monarchs? Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus Plexippus</i> Monarchs and sunflowers - pretty spectacular! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1535374643061-ZB6M7WHI9OTDYG1WYAUG/monarchCenter+for+Biological+Diversity+2018+Eastern+Monarch+Winter+Count.png Current Issue - A Good Year for Monarchs? Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus Plexippus</i> Dramatic decline in overwintering populations of monarchs in Mexico portends a gloomy fate for Eastern Monarchs unless this trend can be reversed. Image credit: Center for Biological Diversity https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/8/20/robber-flies-steal-lives3-red-footed-cannibal-fly-ipromachus-rufipesi monthly 0.5 2018-08-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1534771361745-UEQ9ZMACYCPWZ94G7ES9/robberwithbee_adj.jpg Current Issue - Robber flies steal lives: Red-footed cannibal fly, <i>Promachus rufipes</i> With a bumble bee neatly tucked between its legs, this robber fly sucks the life from its victim. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1534771590303-J2MLS2GL1N4Z6VG8NK4S/robberflydougmakowski3_adj.jpg Current Issue - Robber flies steal lives: Red-footed cannibal fly, <i>Promachus rufipes</i> Robber flies are part of Mother Nature’s hit squad helping to reduce numbers of dreaded brown marmorated stink bugs. Photo credit: Doug Makowski https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/8/7/mantises-and-martinis-the-chinese-praying-mantis-itenodera-aridifoliai monthly 0.5 2018-08-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1533669889911-G87AVKLWE3NLT83NQWNC/mantilecture+copy_adj.jpg Current Issue - “Mantises and Martinis”! The Chinese Praying Mantis, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinensis</i> Conversations with unusually large mantises, even multilingual ones, can be perplexing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1534164676943-BLBPNOCP6OHSSGLAQALX/mantieats5_1500.jpg Current Issue - “Mantises and Martinis”! The Chinese Praying Mantis, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinensis</i> When it comes to mantis romance, a hapless suitor learns that sometimes dinner and a date means that he is dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1533670301594-LYY9TD9XN0U8KNZOW6WT/carolinamantid1500.jpg Current Issue - “Mantises and Martinis”! The Chinese Praying Mantis, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinensis</i> Like their foreign cousins, Carolina mantises are sit-and-wait predators. This one waits for a victim to arrive at a flower head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1533670404436-DZ6JVK223XR4OU4YSMOQ/savetheleg_adj.jpg Current Issue - “Mantises and Martinis”! The Chinese Praying Mantis, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinensis</i> European praying mantises also enjoy a hearty meal of stink bug. They don’t seem to mind sharing with some jackal flies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/8/6/an-inside-look-at-baldfaced-hornets-idolichovespula-maculatai monthly 0.5 2018-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1533566238321-0QS1J89EZK32Y3DQDDF9/baldfaceguard2_adj.jpg Current Issue - An inside look at baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> Fierce guards protect the entrance to the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1533566520379-UKUX10CCZOIZYWOK448D/shannonbignest1500.jpg Current Issue - An inside look at baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> Nests can be the size of beach balls and contain hundreds of hornets. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/7/16/carp-diem-fish-and-blow-flies-calliphoridae monthly 0.5 2020-06-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531748177191-94NPFONOIIOTM8JN3O02/carrionfly1a_1500.jpg Current Issue - Carp diem: Fish and blow flies, Calliphoridae True gourmands are blow flies. When not feasting on rotting flesh or excrement, blow flies can be found pollenating beautiful flowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531748752098-8RJ9D2NU38GR13PUULNW/greenblowfly1a_1500.jpg Current Issue - Carp diem: Fish and blow flies, Calliphoridae Within four minutes of placing piece of meat on my picnic table a blow fly appeared to lay claim to the feast. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/7/22/cicadas-beware-the-ladies-are-in-town-female-cicada-killer-isphecius-speciosusi monthly 0.5 2018-07-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1532311342049-N5JRAVWEL7NKIX9GFM6D/ckillerad1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Cicadas beware, the ladies are in town: Female cicada killer, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> After emerging from her gallery, this female cicada killer prepares to hunt her next victim. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1532311984819-DH7FF09HZHBGIJRDOKW1/cicadakillerhole1500.jpg Current Issue - Cicadas beware, the ladies are in town: Female cicada killer, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> Beneath my zinnias in the front flower bed a female cicada killer has prepared her subterranean gallery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1532312047397-ZSFEZAJQK1HU22PB22AL/cicadakillerabandon1500.jpg Current Issue - Cicadas beware, the ladies are in town: Female cicada killer, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> Paralyzed cicadas are sometimes abandoned near the entrance to a nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1532312089877-8CEVS2KONXZH2DT3VKL3/cicadakillersting1500.jpg Current Issue - Cicadas beware, the ladies are in town: Female cicada killer, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> The magnificent stinger of the female cicada killer will deliver a paralyzing but not lethal sting to her victim. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/7/16/lookin-for-trouble-male-cicada-killer-wasps-isphecius-speciosusi monthly 0.5 2018-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531745494800-4ETDD9ZCVO8WXOYWZL9X/malecicadakiller2_adj.jpg Current Issue - Lookin’ for trouble: Male cicada killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</I> Male cicada killer wasps are harmless and beautiful, well, unless you are another male cicada killer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/7/9/tiny-recyclers-booklice-and-barklice-psocoptera monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531142251827-LWXC7I453N63D0TZDXGO/2Cathy+Keifer1a.jpg Current Issue - Tiny recyclers: Booklice and barklice, Psocoptera Colorful barklice, most likely Cerastipsocus venosus, have been seen in many counties in Maryland this year. Photo credit: Cathy Keifer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531142467747-TR81L51A1GUUZUT33FTX/1Rachel+Rhodes1a.jpg Current Issue - Tiny recyclers: Booklice and barklice, Psocoptera Wingless nymphs and winged adults are often seen in large aggregations on the bark of trees. Photo credit: Rachel Rhodes https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531142671810-FLFTK3J87DFK3FFR5VIF/3psocideggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny recyclers: Booklice and barklice, Psocoptera Beneath silken webs on the undersides of holly leaves, I often encounter jelly-bean shaped eggs of barklice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1531143014469-WYUAX1JZMWZYJ5NYVKW6/4psocidsilk1500.jpg Current Issue - Tiny recyclers: Booklice and barklice, Psocoptera At a rest stop on an interstate, branches of a small tree were shrouded with barklice silk. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/6/27/a-zealous-assassin-pale-green-assassin-bug-izelus-luridusi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1530125023565-ZYKRR1EQ24BEVKVOCJQV/zelusovipreb2_1500.jpg Current Issue - A zealous assassin: Pale Green Assassin Bug, <i>Zelus luridus</i> Beneath a leaf, a pale green assassin bug lays her eggs. Photo credit: Rebeccah Waterworth https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1530125507527-SDERR6HLXXE95WIBJ8SN/zelus1a_1500.jpg Current Issue - A zealous assassin: Pale Green Assassin Bug, <i>Zelus luridus</i> A small wasp falls victim to the sticky legs and hungry beak of Zelus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1530125575788-68VC354I410RVB40QIW1/zelusnymph5a_1500.jpg Current Issue - A zealous assassin: Pale Green Assassin Bug, <i>Zelus luridus</i> This Zelus nymph will soon earn it wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/6/24/american-ladies-like-licorice-american-lady-butterfly-ivanessa-virginiensisi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1529860069060-A1X74KC7HSQX4GHNGFQI/amladylady1_1500.jpg Current Issue - American ladies like licorice: American Lady Butterfly, <i>Vanessa virginiensis</i> Whether upside down or right side up, the American Painted Lady is one gorgeous butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1529860368223-2H7IPI68Y6EHH2JP2JF2/americanladyshelter1500.jpg Current Issue - American ladies like licorice: American Lady Butterfly, <i>Vanessa virginiensis</i> When not actively feeding on leaves, American Painted Lady caterpillars hide in silken shelters spun around leaves of their host plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1529860475463-PII8IXDMCD5NMX2GOLJR/americanladypup1500.jpg Current Issue - American ladies like licorice: American Lady Butterfly, <i>Vanessa virginiensis</i> Nestled between two leaves of licorice plant, the chrysalis sets the stage for metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/6/18/vexing-rains-spawn-vexing-mosquitoes-inland-floodwater-mosquito-iaedes-vexansi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1529337897911-KX85O8F5VZ4IEZH24CBO/vexans_adj.jpg Current Issue - Vexing rains spawn vexing mosquitoes: inland floodwater mosquito, <i>Aedes vexans</i> Legions of inland floodwater mosquitoes like this egg-filled Aedes vexans will soon make their presence known as they seek human victims on warm summer nights. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1529338501384-8YHYCTPRUR57JBPJL8Z4/Vexans+wrigglers_adj.jpg Current Issue - Vexing rains spawn vexing mosquitoes: inland floodwater mosquito, <i>Aedes vexans</i> At a residential home in the DMV, a pool of standing water breeds tens of thousands of inland floodwater mosquitoes. A single sample with this mosquito dipper holds hundreds of larvae and pupae soon to turn into adult mosquitoes ready to torment local residents. Image credit: Megan Fritz https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/29/a-bumble-bee-or-not-a-bumble-bee-that-is-the-question-miner-bees-ianthophora-abruptai monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527610137345-KS5F5ZZIZ7AKUGNMR7LQ/anthophora3_adj.jpg Current Issue - A bumble bee, or not a bumble bee, that is the question: Miner bees, <i>Anthophora abrupta</i> More closely related to a carpenter bee than a bumble bee, the earth mining bee, Anthophora abrupta, is an important pollinator of many flowering trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527610562847-W4T4V3KWSZN78M1OWT0A/anthophora1a_1500.jpg Current Issue - A bumble bee, or not a bumble bee, that is the question: Miner bees, <i>Anthophora abrupta</i> A pair of lady miner bees busily ready their earthen tunnels in preparation for provisioning them with nectar and pollen, and depositing eggs within. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1528641141561-TFP2XE70PD2FBXC60SFG/mining+bees.jpg Current Issue - A bumble bee, or not a bumble bee, that is the question: Miner bees, <i>Anthophora abrupta</i> The Bee Wall at the University of Maryland is a great place to see marvelous mining bees in action. Image: Lisa Kuder https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/28/ground-nesting-bees-beware-of-the-bee-fly-bombyliidae monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527519117703-X9GSLAAH4WTN3D1QXNWM/Bombylius+major1500.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of the bee fly: Bombyliidae Bee flies like this Greater Bee Fly frequent meadows bustling with blossoms and are often confused with bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527520066829-IVRH5E2X2UEXJUG8WMTX/Anthrax+georgicus_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of the bee fly: Bombyliidae Pretty Anthrax georgicus devours larvae of ground dwelling tiger beetles as they develop in their earthen galleries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527520144760-EJS74E4P3D6S8TZAH49N/Xenox+tigrinus1500.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of the bee fly: Bombyliidae Don’t be surprised to see the Tiger Bee Fly, Xenox tigrinus, loitering on decks or siding infested with carpenter bees. Larvae of the carpenter bee are food for the larvae of this handsome fly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527520280880-7ETABFH36X0SWY8SO05C/Chrysanthrax+cypris1254.jpg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees beware of the bee fly: Bombyliidae Distinct patches of black on the wings of Chrysanthrax cypris make it easy to identify this pollinator in the meadow. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/28/impatient-doomed-cicadas-of-brood-x-imagicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527514233782-JFINUCA787L7X7D06KQV/adultcassini1500.jpg Current Issue - Impatient, doomed cicadas of Brood X, <i>Magicada</i> spp. Will this beautiful female Magicicada cassini live long enough to mate and reproduce, or will her early appearance in advance of the main brood doom her and her broodmates? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1527514445922-QL746Z6O6MWBIDRO2SX7/nancyperkins674.jpg Current Issue - Impatient, doomed cicadas of Brood X, <i>Magicada</i> spp. Homeowners around Columbia, MD sighted cicadas on foliage and plants last week. Photo credit: Nancy Perkins https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/21/rosie-defoliators-roseslug-sawfly-iendelomyia-aethiopsi-and-curled-rose-sawfly-iallantus-cinctusi monthly 0.5 2022-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526908054007-PKQLYUOR5P59VSRX6ZXS/sawflyadult_1332.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators: Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Bristley rose sawfly, Cladius pectinicornis Impressive antennae adorn this tiny adult sawfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526908279489-PMMMFKF1T1CY2ZPPUPR4/rosesmall1_1424.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators: Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Bristley rose sawfly, Cladius pectinicornis It’s easy to see how the curled rose sawfly got its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526908352308-5ILDV88YKAAUMNU7O146/rosesmall2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators: Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Bristley rose sawfly, Cladius pectinicornis Not much left after the curled rose sawfly finishes a leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526908394432-B5OTYARO3BXRCGU9A54D/DSC_0440_1500.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators: Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Bristley rose sawfly, Cladius pectinicornis By mid-summer roseslug damaged leaves turn brown and crinkled. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/14/bannekers-boxelder-bugs-iboisea-trivittatusi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526306225411-6TAB4JOWO2WECKEOV0HB/boxeldermate3a_1500.jpg Current Issue - Banneker’s boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Boxelder bliss at Banneker. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526306429148-5K3VKISJ7C7VM02R1HM5/maplesamaras2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Banneker’s boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Maple samaras will soon twirl to the ground and become food for developing boxelder bugs throughout the summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526306600727-4B7MV15UQS68SO5RVQCY/boxeldereggs2_873.jpg Current Issue - Banneker’s boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Female boxelder bugs deposit eggs on many surfaces. Tiny nymphs will hatch and move to the ground to consume seeds and other plant tissues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526306827799-ACSVCINQL8HYPKBLYXE5/boxeldernymph_1254.jpg Current Issue - Banneker’s boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Wing buds on the sides of boxelder bug nymphs elongate with each molt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1526307033603-VMS0S3RO3K48LZIBBOKW/boxelderpoop3a_1500.jpg Current Issue - Banneker’s boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Coprophagy, the consumption of poop, is practiced by many insects including, apparently, boxelder bugs. This is likely a way to obtain minerals or other nutrients found in a bird dropping. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/5/6/stinky-exodus-underway-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1525611875443-TIAPN4E65HQ31808ZHEN/coffcupBMSB_1500.jpg Current Issue - Stinky exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> So, where’s the Joe? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/4/30/mason-bee-haviors-iosmiai-spp monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1525094405808-U1DLCGC89FTZT07LGN2H/hornface1500.jpg Current Issue - Mason bee-haviors: <i>Osmia</i> spp. A newly minted horn-faced mason bee prepares to take her first flight. Golden hairs called scopa line her abdomen. These will be festooned with pollen when she returns to her gallery to make pollen cakes for her young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1525094543442-5B69LC3JQ1A5DKRWLHF7/masonbeecondo1500.jpg Current Issue - Mason bee-haviors: <i>Osmia</i> spp. Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1525094604209-XJT6WCXVKYS5GTR2XMYY/masonpollenballs_1500ADJ.jpg Current Issue - Mason bee-haviors: <i>Osmia</i> spp. Glorious yellow pollen cakes line each cardboard tube and gallery. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/4/22/come-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-at-maryland-day-saturday-april-28-2018 monthly 0.5 2018-04-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1524431764276-HRAKRYI4XC79H2BVZK8J/mddayfun-adj.jpg Current Issue - Come Explore the Insect Petting Zoo at Maryland Day, Saturday, April 28, 2018! Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1524432305019-HUEL1CF9IUQ9KIV4G0MX/Whip+scorpion-adj.jpg Current Issue - Come Explore the Insect Petting Zoo at Maryland Day, Saturday, April 28, 2018! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/4/16/destination-potomac-maryland-spring-arrives-and-with-it-ticks-lone-star-tick-iamblyomma-americanumi-and-blacklegged-ticks-iixodesi-spp monthly 0.5 2018-08-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1523883798497-498CBXPTMGEHLH37W7W2/lonestarnymph2018_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Potomac, Maryland – Spring arrives and with it, ticks: Lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i>, and Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp. Does this lone star nymph carry the tick borne disease ehrlichiosis or STARI? Inquiring minds want to know. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1523884130944-0K5NGQATRBW9YSEFXEWX/5quest1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Potomac, Maryland – Spring arrives and with it, ticks: Lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i>, and Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp. Ticks will climb up vegetation and reach out with forelegs to encounter a host. This behavior is called questing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1523884181005-6HCYG0K7BAX4OTA31VG7/ankle3high_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Potomac, Maryland – Spring arrives and with it, ticks: Lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i>, and Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp. A bull’s eye rash is one of the characteristic symptoms of Lyme disease. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1523884343588-5HJSN1Y5CIBZCV22SLJL/engorgedtick1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Potomac, Maryland – Spring arrives and with it, ticks: Lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i>, and Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp. Fully engorged ticks are enormous. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/4/5/destination-cahal-pech-belize-to-visit-rainforest-recyclers-nozzle-headed-termites-inasutitermesi-sp monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522959905821-LJ5FHFWVA9494FIL4JDO/nausut6_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Cahal Pech, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes</i> sp. This termite soldier squirts defensive chemicals through the elongated snout called a nasus at the front of its head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522960489830-6GXXU8G8BEVM8OUYL69H/termnest2000.jpg Current Issue - Destination Cahal Pech, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes</i> sp. Termite nests like this one at the base of a tree contain thousands of termites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522960765885-JSVMQNGK98QYH2YJ46OV/mudtubebelize1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Cahal Pech, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes</i> sp. Dark trails mark the foraging routes of termites on tree trunks as they search for food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522960537444-ETALEFE0A6IMYUN981SG/termitaria2396.jpg Current Issue - Destination Cahal Pech, Belize to visit rainforest recyclers: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes</i> sp. Large termite nests are often found high in trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/3/27/destination-belmopan-belize-look-whos-looking-at-you-owl-butterflies-icaligoi-sp monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522178415766-0OPFNOD7TR6WV64OQAGW/owl3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Belmopan, Belize – Look who’s looking at you: Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo</i> sp. A scary eye spot adorns the wing of an owl butterfly. Can it fool hungry predators? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522179135283-2FJKXK6MUSZF7W1I6J6B/owl2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Belmopan, Belize – Look who’s looking at you: Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo</i> sp. This pair of owl butterflies might make a hungry predator turn back and run. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522179204852-6R4E7ZU3506ITT2ME18V/owlchrys3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Belmopan, Belize – Look who’s looking at you: Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo</i> sp. Dead leaf or reptile head? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1522179245496-FHLDDZORKCHLIF9UPQ41/owlcats2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Belmopan, Belize – Look who’s looking at you: Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo</i> sp. Orlando wrangles a handful of gorgeous owl caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/3/22/destination-monteverde-costa-rica-rainy-day-in-the-vanishing-cloud-forest-with-butterflies-moths-and-froghoppers monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521745103048-6BIR0PTCC65LZVBLA5KU/saturniid_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde, Costa Rica: Rainy day in the vanishing cloud forest with butterflies, moths, and froghoppers Cloud forests are home to unique and wonderful insects like the beautiful saturniid moth, Cerodirphia avenata. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521745416391-TPN2MFLTSAWJL8W394X6/cloud+forest1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Monteverde, Costa Rica: Rainy day in the vanishing cloud forest with butterflies, moths, and froghoppers Moisture laden air from the lowlands condenses at higher elevations to form a cloud forest on a mountainside in Costa Rica. In a warming world what will be the fate of bio-rich cloud forests? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/3/16/help-find-the-spotted-lanternfly-ilycorma-delicatulai monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521229540242-Z843HE5A7Y82UN753ERM/lanternflyhand1500.jpg Current Issue - Help find the spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> Spectacularly beautiful but nonetheless harmful, spotted lanternflies provide yet another challenge in the never ending battle with invasive species. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521379960322-XLES5XKPH8V6R0QDP2N1/treeofheaven1500.jpg Current Issue - Help find the spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> The ability of Tree of Heaven to colonize highly disturbed and disregarded landscapes like this truck stop on a major interstate highway provides opportunity for populations of spotted lanternflies to build unnoticed and stowaway on vehicles parked nearby. Dozens of spotted laternflies dotted the trunks of these trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521229849549-Q5BI7W3T4W402IDXHYQT/lanternflyfemale1500.jpg Current Issue - Help find the spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> With an abdomen full of eggs this female lanternfly will soon deposit them in an egg mass on the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1521229915027-VBI4KEV2NWY61HK1GMTX/eggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Help find the spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> - It’s easy to see how the non-descript egg masses of the spotted lanternfly like this one on the bole of a tree sneak past human detection and move about the world. If you discover an egg mass, nymphs, or adult spotted lanternflies, report these to your University Extension Service or State Department of Agriculture. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/3/8/destination-lizard-island-australia-and-a-visit-with-green-tree-ants-ioecophylla-smaragdinai monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520523674099-ROY8D3CJNXVBPDIBL8BB/greenantalert2018_adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Lizard Island, Australia, and a visit with Green Tree Ants, <i>Oecophylla smaragdina</i> With jaws widespread, a major worker prepares to defend the colony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520524333335-INLZAME08TENRYABEJ05/greentreeantnest2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Lizard Island, Australia, and a visit with Green Tree Ants, <i>Oecophylla smaragdina</i> A single colony of green tree ants may consist of several smaller nests distributed in several trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520859986393-799C9T1VZ2MEIQLNXHCF/MantiOscar.jpg Current Issue - Destination Lizard Island, Australia, and a visit with Green Tree Ants, <i>Oecophylla smaragdina</i> https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/3/4/bug-of-the-week-academy-awards-2018 monthly 0.5 2018-03-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520191432243-GPHLCL6633QAQSGG2Q22/MantiOscar.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 The "Manti", named for nobody's uncle, will be awarded in three categories. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520192039197-DC1ISFCK6QJXRVQJOEEI/assassinhighfive1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520193172826-26YENT4N0FE960V30FPF/2ambushaster2017_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520193193705-67PCQ7XYGYIR5VPQQOQZ/3spottedorb_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520193267428-HASAJ8JFI3J8IJ56T65H/4urania1281.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520193299982-AHEVA3DW916H8IWM51RV/5marpesiabeach1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520195376409-AYBXS156092I1FPNIP7B/6atalacat2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520195414414-LOS1C515V46SRLLDLWDA/7cpipmol2017_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520195442682-VLVEWLSMM3M7015X7A7Z/8bedbugadult2017_Cool82.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1520195491949-IEBPO4QDRPAJ73NJDK9Q/9soldierlarva1.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2018 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/2/13/destinations-la-torre-peru-search-for-the-mistress-of-pain-bullet-ants-iparaponera-clavatai monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1518548062267-GYPG9IRWBJJ42Z2XQ7RV/bullet2_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination La Torre, Peru – Search for the mistress of pain: Bullet Ants, <i>Paraponera clavata</i> Giant bullet ants can deliver one of the fiercest stings in the entire insect realm. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/2/4/destination-reserva-nacional-tambopata-peru-the-art-of-deception-can-gossamer-wing-butterflies-iarawacusi-sp-dodge-lethal-attacks monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517769643640-JF9GJKUHR2MWFQ0ETI0P/gassamer5_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Peru – The art of deception: can gossamer-wing butterflies, <i>Arawacus</i> sp., dodge lethal attacks? At the right end of this butterfly are its head, thorax, and abdomen, vital parts that are targets for a predator’s attack. At the left end of the butterfly at the tips of the hindwings are two white–tipped, antennae-like tails, a head-like rounded dark patch, and a small white eye spot that combine to create a false head intended to misdirect a predator’s attack. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/2/4/destination-reserva-nacional-tambopata-peru-how-pleasing-are-rainforest-fungus-beetles-erotylidae monthly 0.5 2018-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517768760025-Y0IPPHQQCGIYQ5UMH9QO/gibbifer2_Adj.jpg Current Issue - Destination Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Peru: How pleasing are rainforest fungus beetles, Erotylidae? Gibbifer is one genus of spectacularly beautiful pleasing fungus beetles found in the Amazonian rainforest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517769219166-472IDKO2K7JCLDSMHGQ8/rainforestfungi1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Peru: How pleasing are rainforest fungus beetles, Erotylidae? With no shortage of plant material as a food source and perpetually warm humid conditions, amazing fungi flourish in the rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/2/4/destination-villarrica-chile-not-hidin-from-anyone-the-elegant-phasmatid-iagathemera-elegansi monthly 0.5 2018-02-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517762902166-KQQJXPBZQDXCU9ORBDGI/chinchefemale1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Villarrica, Chile – Not hidin’ from anyone: the elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans</i> A beautiful female chinchemolle phasmatid grazes on herbaceous plants near a stream. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517763083915-NM003SX0TPZNHP2ZR64C/Villarrica1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Villarrica, Chile – Not hidin’ from anyone: the elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans</i> Vulcan Villarrica in Chile; upon its slopes lives the chinchemolle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517763133494-9FJ1BQC5FT4KRRT3KND3/malechinchemolle1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Villarrica, Chile – Not hidin’ from anyone: the elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans</i> This male chinchemolle makes no attempt to hide as he moves across the rocky shore. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/1/29/destinations-la-torre-peru-and-carara-costa-rica-hidin-in-the-rainforest-part-ii-cryptic-walking-sticks-phasmatidae-horse-head-grasshoppers-proscopidiidae-and-mantids-mantidae monthly 0.5 2018-01-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517240613695-FADUTMLL0AV76WESD1CW/stickmantid1500.jpg Current Issue - Destinations La Torre, Peru, and Carara, Costa Rica – Hidin’ in the Rainforest, Part II: cryptic walking sticks, Phasmatidae; horse-head grasshoppers, Proscopidiidae; and mantids, Mantidae Greatly elongated limbs, twig-brown coloration, and the ability to remain motionless seemingly for hours, give this rainforest mantis a look that says, “Don’t bother with a second look, I’m just a twig.” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517240899281-C13ZM8TMR0NH70SCBVKN/twigstuckinleaf1500.jpg Current Issue - Destinations La Torre, Peru, and Carara, Costa Rica – Hidin’ in the Rainforest, Part II: cryptic walking sticks, Phasmatidae; horse-head grasshoppers, Proscopidiidae; and mantids, Mantidae Fallen branches and twigs pierce or rest on leaves, providing many insects with an opportunity to evolve an appearance of inedibility to most insect-hunting predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517241026939-PGP1397YALBHZZXRJY2W/horsehead1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destinations La Torre, Peru, and Carara, Costa Rica – Hidin’ in the Rainforest, Part II: cryptic walking sticks, Phasmatidae; horse-head grasshoppers, Proscopidiidae; and mantids, Mantidae Stick-like appendages, elongated body and head help this horse-head grasshopper hide on the branch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1517241105480-VMW32BWERO8WE86MOXCI/kidswithhorseheadgrasshopper1500.jpg Current Issue - Destinations La Torre, Peru, and Carara, Costa Rica – Hidin’ in the Rainforest, Part II: cryptic walking sticks, Phasmatidae; horse-head grasshoppers, Proscopidiidae; and mantids, Mantidae Who could resist a chance to get up close and personal with the fascinating horse-head grasshopper? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/1/21/destination-tambopata-national-reserve-peru-hidin-in-the-rainforest-with-cryptic-katydids-tettigoniidae monthly 0.5 2018-01-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1516573540536-JXNY8D2K11E8HJKYTUE2/deadleafkaty2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Tambopata National Reserve, Peru: Hidin’ in the rainforest with cryptic katydids, Tettigoniidae By day the dead leaf katydid stands out on a green leaf. Better find another place to rest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1516573818631-2E5G86HB13X86Z2GG2OT/katybird1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Tambopata National Reserve, Peru: Hidin’ in the rainforest with cryptic katydids, Tettigoniidae This little katydid could not escape a clever bird. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1516573897404-67FVSSGR28TW5P8H99NX/greenleafkaty1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Tambopata National Reserve, Peru: Hidin’ in the rainforest with cryptic katydids, Tettigoniidae Caught in the glare of flashlight, a kneeling katydid depends on its leaf-like appearance to escape searching eyes of hungry predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1516574004126-XB3XEGLUZ9I81PC217I4/deadleaf1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Tambopata National Reserve, Peru: Hidin’ in the rainforest with cryptic katydids, Tettigoniidae Throughout the rainforest, fallen dead leaves comingle with living ones and provide an opportunity for cryptic insects to blend in with their environment to escape the jaws of hungry predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/1/15/destination-tambopata-river-peru-the-search-for-salt-by-birds-and-birdwing-moths-iuraniai-sp monthly 0.5 2018-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1516026092733-18LYOBQBSIOQ3U53ATTV/urania1281.jpg Current Issue - Destination Tambopata River, Peru: The search for salt by birds and birdwing moths, <i>Urania</i> sp. Soil on the bank of the Tambopata River supplies vital nutrients to a Urania moth. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/1/8/destination-puerto-maldonado-peru-skipper-caterpillars-hesperiidae-play-hide-and-seek-with-predators-in-the-rainforest monthly 0.5 2018-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1515428126070-SWKWOSKYW21UWWMJ1778/astraptes2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Puerto Maldonado, Peru: Skipper caterpillars, Hesperiidae, play hide and seek with predators in the rainforest Contrasting yellow bands against an umber background may warn predators of the unpalatability of this skipper caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2018/1/1/destination-coral-gables-florida-a-visit-with-coontie-and-the-atala-butterfly-ieumaeus-atalai monthly 0.5 2018-01-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1514825186666-F91XIMM5KT9LPAH43M9O/atala1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Coral Gables, Florida: A visit with Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Bright colors of the Atala butterfly advertise a nasty meal and warn predators not to take a bite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1514825914990-61KC97XHT0VK7KSTQ7JF/atalaeggs2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Coral Gables, Florida: A visit with Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Hatched eggs of the Atala festoon the coontie’s cones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1514825495758-U86I5GBO25TLYLXFM5Q0/atalacat2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Coral Gables, Florida: A visit with Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> As the Atala caterpillar feeds, it stores noxious chemicals from the leaves of the coontie. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1514825420308-JWI6J6H2BJE2V0WXTUN0/coonti2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Destination Coral Gables, Florida: A visit with Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Widespread planting of cycads in landscapes support the return of the Atala in Florida. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/12/23/cooley-spruce-gall-adelgids-iadelges-cooleyiidecorate-the-christmas-tree monthly 0.5 2017-12-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1387815469690-BQK69SDNN9270EJK2GZK/1csgaeggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>, decorate the Christmas tree On Douglas fir, female Cooley spruce gall adelgids lay dozens of eggs in cottony masses of wax. Eggs hatch and small brown nymphs settle down to feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1387815718107-S1SYOZH012LLW26WYCZF/2cooleysga1500.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>, decorate the Christmas tree Cooley spruce gall adelgids enslave the genetic machinery of the spruce tree, causing it to form an abnormal, pineapple-shaped home for the insect, called a gall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1387815900076-ZEJOG5K4Y2WPZQ68697W/3cooleysgaslice613.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>, decorate the Christmas tree Within the gall are dozens of chambers housing spruce gall adelgid nymphs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1387816351348-QBL11J5ZK7PO65NYE79O/4christmascicadas1500.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>, decorate the Christmas tree Three wise Brood II cicadas wish everyone a Happy Holiday season and joyous New Year. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/12/16/twas-the-week-before-christmas-giant-bark-aphids-ilongistigma-caryaei-and-giant-willow-aphids-ituberolachnus-salignusi monthly 0.5 2017-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1513448367731-A8F0V2OHLSZ7DYZ92RJJ/giantaphidclose2_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, <i>Longistigma caryae</i>, and giant willow aphids, <i>Tuberolachnus salignus</i> Some adult giant bark aphids have wings and others do not. These are the largest aphids in North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1513449817660-C23BD1Y202GH7FI5NSCO/giantwillow5_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, <i>Longistigma caryae</i>, and giant willow aphids, <i>Tuberolachnus salignus</i> In this colony of giant willow aphids, the large female on the upper left portion of the branch is giving birth to a daughter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1513449866238-DYF06NUTITY11C8CTCTF/giantbarkaphidandeggs2_1500.jpg Current Issue - ‘Twas the week before Christmas: Giant bark aphids, <i>Longistigma caryae</i>, and giant willow aphids, <i>Tuberolachnus salignus</i> Eggs of the giant bark aphid are the overwintering stage. They line small branches by the thousands and change from amber to black as they age. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/12/11/edamame-surprise-soldier-flies-stratiomyidae monthly 0.5 2018-03-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1513002358846-CR1JPU232QDERNT360IV/blacksoldier1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Edamame surprise: Soldier flies, Stratiomyidae Black soldier flies have a wasp-like appearance but pose no threat to humans or pets. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/12/4/five-legged-cricket-in-the-bathtub-iceuthophilusi-spp-american-camel-crickets-and-idiestrammenai-spp-asian-camel-crickets monthly 0.5 2017-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1512396956958-ZOROQ4J562L8S41JDBLS/asiancaemltoolshed1500.jpg Current Issue - Five-legged cricket in the bathtub: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> spp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> spp. (Asian camel crickets) Super long antennae help camel crickets navigate dark places and powerful legs help them escape nosy entomologists. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1512397609507-W9R8U77II389DB2Z4S82/camelfecal1500.jpg Current Issue - Five-legged cricket in the bathtub: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> spp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> spp. (Asian camel crickets) Fecal spots left by camel crickets create a foul ambiance to the interior of a tool shed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1512397765417-7ND4I93NSQZHITKC283H/cricketleg3_1500.jpg Current Issue - Five-legged cricket in the bathtub: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> spp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> spp. (Asian camel crickets) Camel crickets will drop a leg when threatened by a predator. Looks a little like a turkey drumstick doesn’t it? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/11/21/waxy-ladies-on-alder-woolly-alder-aphid-iparaprociphilus-tessellatusi monthly 0.5 2017-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1511279203690-KOAK52RF1GYCXRJ0VI6X/woollyalder2017_1500.jpg Current Issue - Waxy ladies on alder: Woolly Alder Aphid, <i>Paraprociphilus tessellatus</i> These waxy ladies look like they are decked out in bridal lace, but being parthenogenetic they have no interest in guys. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/11/13/seeing-spots-spotted-lanternfly-ilycorma-delicatulai monthly 0.5 2017-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1510598671941-T1Q4G9MSI49CTVV0RK8G/wings1500.jpg Current Issue - Seeing spots: Spotted Lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> Spectacularly beautiful but nonetheless harmful, spotted lanternflies provide yet another challenge in the never ending battle with invasive species. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1510598970082-76O826FG0CWCYHNZTE1I/eggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Seeing spots: Spotted Lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> It’s easy to see how the non-descript egg masses of the lanternfly like this one on the bole of a tree sneak past human detection and move about the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/31/flies-that-mimic-wasps-masquerading-syrphid-fly-ihelophilusi-sp monthly 0.5 2017-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1509481336674-MORJ8OWMC9J22CHO8DST/Helophilus2_no+filter.jpg Current Issue - Flies that mimic wasps: Masquerading syrphid fly, <i>Helophilus</i> sp. Where the abdomen joins the thorax, symmetrical medial dark patterns with marginal patches of pale yellow give this hover fly a convincing wasp-waist look. Notice how the longitudinal stripes on the thorax of the fly resemble the light colored stripes on the back of the paper wasp pictured below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1509481495811-ILK70IVZLIJBR5IAPOG3/paperwaspexclemens1500.jpg Current Issue - Flies that mimic wasps: Masquerading syrphid fly, <i>Helophilus</i> sp. Paper wasps are frequent visitors to goldenrods. Is this wasp the model for the Helophilus syrphid fly? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1509481612987-V2QB5CFFYFZOCQPYZHZO/rat-tailedmaggot1500.jpg Current Issue - Flies that mimic wasps: Masquerading syrphid fly, <i>Helophilus</i> sp. Unlike some larvae of flower flies that are fierce predators, the larvae of Helophilus live in aquatic or semiaquatic habitats and are called rat-tailed maggots by virtue of a long breathing tube on their rear end. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/24/window-wasps-grass-carrying-wasps-iisodontiai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-12-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508876274255-XKTXM5W45GEXWBHQALBI/grasscarryinglarva1500.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: Grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Within a papery cocoon, a cricket-fed larva of the grass-carrying wasp will transform into a pupa. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508876479113-B3O4QIUQL4M790I25OHM/grass-carryingpupae1500.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: Grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Cocoons of a grass-carrying wasp line the tracks of my storm window where they will ride out the winter protected from elements and enemies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508876531624-A2J5BOKSZOVS2CVAMSQA/Tree+cricket+1500_DSC_0165.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: Grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Tree crickets like this one may fall victim to the grass-carrying wasp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/24/bugs-in-orange-and-black-three-assassins-milkweed-assassin-bug-izelus-longipesi-orange-assassin-bug-ipselliopus-barberii-and-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508860197128-CBKCX2ZK2MTJSSRYMKKT/orangeassassin1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: Three assassins - milkweed assassin bug, <i>Zelus longipes</i>; orange assassin bug, <i>Pselliopus barberi</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> This orange assassin bug wearing black jailhouse stripes delivered a trick - not a treat - to this hapless leafhopper. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508860638145-BU26SL8536XDOHZTQ2IK/Zelus1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: Three assassins - milkweed assassin bug, <i>Zelus longipes</i>; orange assassin bug, <i>Pselliopus barberi</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> Sticky forelegs help the milkweed assassin bug snare its prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508860765182-K5MHTLDXRF0VE3G2R9O7/assassinhighfive1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black: Three assassins - milkweed assassin bug, <i>Zelus longipes</i>; orange assassin bug, <i>Pselliopus barberi</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> What does it mean when wheel bug nymphs give each other a high five? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/14/what-is-that-giant-hornet-and-why-is-it-eating-my-tree-european-hornet-ivespa-crabroi-1 monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508004631551-SG2DOGDMJ755JRJ85C4A/europeanapple1500.jpg Current Issue - What is that giant hornet and why is it eating my tree? European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> Fallen fruit are a favored source of nutrients for many stinging insects. Please don’t go barefoot near fruit trees in autumn lest you have a zesty surprise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508004960375-9EZW6L5DF9XUROI2ITFI/europeanbernstein_adj.jpg Current Issue - What is that giant hornet and why is it eating my tree? European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> Gangs of European hornets often strip bark from thin-barked trees and shrubs in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508005079623-9KN7X12MD9NU8DESVU3V/europeanhorn1500.jpg Current Issue - What is that giant hornet and why is it eating my tree? European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> This large nest came from a wall void in my neighbor’s home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/14/beautiful-in-yellow-and-black-the-locust-borer-imegacyllene-robiniaei monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508003304476-S7G31IYW2WFM0TNFMU98/goldenrodbeetleandwasp_adj.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black: The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Black and yellow bands on the beetle mimic bands on the stinging wasp next door, warning birds and other predators to stand down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508004005588-8W4A6GTRNN94GSF1L286/locustborerlarv2017_adj.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black: The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Larvae of the locust borer are known as round headed borers. Their galleries structurally weaken trees and can kill branches and sometimes entire trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1508003879467-OMQTHYSZS9G36E4VAEB1/blacklocustborergallery1500.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black: The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Large oval holes and frass-packed galleries are a sure sign of locust borers in a black locust tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/10/6/look-but-do-not-touch-blister-beetles-iepicauta-pensylvanicai-and-ie-funebrisi monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1507301519668-PFIZTRZRURJ2IRELW623/blackblister1500.jpg Current Issue - Look but do not touch: Blister beetles, <i>Epicauta pensylvanica</i> and <i>E. funebris</i> Black blister beetles are common visitors to goldenrod in late summer and early autumn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/9/28/deception-and-defense-on-cup-plant-keel-shaped-treehopper-ientylia-carinatai monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1506636709250-CUCIWGJ7BPIR029W3U76/keelhopper1_adj.jpg Current Issue - Deception and defense on cup-plant: Keel-shaped treehopper, <i>Entylia carinata</i> Bizarre treehoppers often resemble plant parts more than insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1506637499705-NVLJFGMPIJT0WDFRSEHT/keelhoppernymphant1500.jpg Current Issue - Deception and defense on cup-plant: Keel-shaped treehopper, <i>Entylia carinata</i> A fierce ant stands guard over a strange treehopper nymph. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/9/25/on-the-outside-looking-in-but-not-for-long-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2018-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1506343457207-Q0861C6V9ECL5N1NQUJA/stinkassault_1500.jpg Current Issue - On the outside looking in but not for long: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Stink bugs check out a shutter as a potential winter refuge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1506344131704-DHS66Z5U7D25QBZH94U1/bmsbfruit_adj.jpg Current Issue - On the outside looking in but not for long: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> After feeding on your fruiting trees and shrubs, stink bugs are preparing to enter your home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/9/17/bumble-bees-and-other-pollinators-beware-of-ambush-bugs-iphymatai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505680195321-QCPUWOLIIV7F5Z49DXA2/ambushaster2017_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble Bees and other Pollinators Beware of Ambush Bugs, <i>Phymata</i> spp. In meadows and gardens members of the aster family are favored hunting grounds for ambush bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505680676515-3PFEVE2AJ2KZHNBMKCZO/ambushkiss+%281%29_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble Bees and other Pollinators Beware of Ambush Bugs, <i>Phymata</i> spp. A yellow and brown ambush bug gives a small wasp a perfidious kiss. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505680715329-HJ4W7SB6HYX9H6YE6U89/Forelegs_ambush13a_1500.jpg Current Issue - Bumble Bees and other Pollinators Beware of Ambush Bugs, <i>Phymata</i> spp. Greatly enlarged forelegs enable the ambush bug to snare its victim like a catcher snaring a wild pitch. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/9/11/big-spider-webs-part-2-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-iargiope-aurantiai monthly 0.5 2017-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505137240244-SM4UC7B7RQTHMRAVO0L1/Blk+%26+Yel_1500_DSC_6551.jpg Current Issue - Big spider webs, Part 2: Black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia</i> Bumping into this beauty can give you quite a surprise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505138046639-IUB84WJAZXHPCXKQNYCZ/stabilimentum1500.jpg Current Issue - Big spider webs, Part 2: Black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia</i> A stabilimentum of heavy silk adorns the center of this web. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1505138829848-265QIMFI9Q5SJ143FBD1/blackyelloweggsac1500.jpg Current Issue - Big spider webs, Part 2: Black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia</i> How many spiderlings will emerge from an egg case almost the size of a Ping-Pong ball? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/8/31/big-spider-webs-part-1-spotted-orbweaver-ineoscona-cruciferai monthly 0.5 2017-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1504210430181-L7CBMYL1U71AFXT67WCR/spottedorb_1500.jpg Current Issue - Big spider webs, Part 1: Spotted orbweaver, <i>Neoscona crucifera</i> A spotted orbweaver spider just hanging out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1504210577042-7TPII4MPSZ66S1F3GK4R/spottedorbweb_1500.jpg Current Issue - Big spider webs, Part 1: Spotted orbweaver, <i>Neoscona crucifera</i> A fine morning mist reveals the beautiful web of a spotted orbweaver. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/8/8/where-have-all-the-spiders-gone-black-and-yellow-mud-dauber-wasps-isceliphron-caementariumi-1 monthly 0.5 2017-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502211015338-RJ1KIRJ3GI0XVWFI0BLI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Where have all the spiders gone? Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, <i>Sceliphron caementarium</i> A beautiful black and yellow mud dauber prepares to gather mud at the water’s edge of the mighty Shenandoah. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502211484669-V8U5NFOCTHRY026IB7ML/muddauberonnest1500.jpg Current Issue - Where have all the spiders gone? Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, <i>Sceliphron caementarium</i> Exit holes mark emergence sites of mud daubers that have completed development within mud nests constructed by their mothers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502211698521-UAW88NIH8S2T9OYHMH9S/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Where have all the spiders gone? Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, <i>Sceliphron caementarium</i> Several juicy paralyzed spiders await the hungry jaws of a mud dauber larva inside their clay crypt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502211815118-MKFSOPQZ8HYFVNL6O125/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Where have all the spiders gone? Black and yellow mud dauber wasps, <i>Sceliphron caementarium</i> After provisioning all the cells with spiders and laying an egg in each cell, a mud dauber puts the finishing touches on a nest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/8/8/harlequin-hijinks-harlequin-bug-imurgantia-histrionicai monthly 0.5 2017-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502208709548-FKQFJ397URCZ9VK8B8HR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks: Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i> Two brightly colored harlequin bugs warn predators of their nasty flavor and send the message “don’t eat me”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502208908193-O1VSQHTJWRUGVU1GFK98/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks: Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i> This poor cabbage has been probed and sucked by harlequin bugs and the distorted, shriveled leaves tell the tale. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502209112371-KBXHV6F2GWP45I2QEJBY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks: Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i> Distinctive barrel shaped eggs colored black and white are an excellent clue that harlequin bugs are about. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/8/7/catching-up-with-the-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2017-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502132751340-X4DBZ6FIHM1OX8CO0SC0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Catching up with the Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Bending her abdomen beneath the leaf, the female monarch deposits an egg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502133241611-TRUDW6CV2U47Q2FBY5BK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Catching up with the Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Eggs are laid singly by the female monarch, a process she repeats hundreds of times. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502205177684-0F2BPNRJ5A0E9ZY8CZAO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Catching up with the Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The fully-grown caterpillar assumes the “J” position just before pupation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1502205260388-2KJIZ5YV9QUV19F5V0IB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Catching up with the Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The monarch’s chrysalis is among the most beautiful in the entire realm of butterflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/29/to-squash-a-squash-bug-ianasa-tristisi monthly 0.5 2017-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501342753871-HECSMRD080JBHPKY79WS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - To squash a squash bug: <i>Anasa tristis</i> This beauty means trouble for cucurbits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501344188653-KGP3EO1XAZZ1629253P3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - To squash a squash bug: <i>Anasa tristis</i> Green and black squash bug nymphs huddle just after hatching from nearby eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501344231077-V6COSZ3KAA6EDMR0LV10/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - To squash a squash bug: <i>Anasa tristis</i> Older squash bug nymphs are ghostly white. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/29/pumpkin-vines-on-the-menu-squash-vine-borer-imelittia-cucurbitaei monthly 0.5 2017-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501340037603-8E8BLGZRFW5NFRB74Q28/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin vines on the menu: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Adult squash vine borers mimic wasps to dupe predators wary of dealing with stinging insects. Photo: Sue Witte https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501340377162-0X172TJE3LU4KKG9Q9KA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin vines on the menu: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Just drought, or is something nefarious behind my wilted vines? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501340300683-U2MWJEFZBHOTQK9GTL6G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin vines on the menu: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Frass marks the spot of the squash vine borer larva. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1501340592951-O2BRW2O7ZEH2ZKHEGYNZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin vines on the menu: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Tiny caterpillars will hatch from reddish eggs deposited by the female squash vine borer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/23/liquid-squirting-leafhoppers-sharpshooters-icuernai-and-ioncometopiai monthly 0.5 2017-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1500829909882-R0T6K1K4WCVDIOQMGUFQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Liquid squirting leafhoppers: Sharpshooters, <i>Cuerna</i> and <i>Oncometopia</i> Sharpshooters are among the most beautiful of all insects. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1500830157844-P5CH19LWHLW69A8XH0XS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Liquid squirting leafhoppers: Sharpshooters, <i>Cuerna</i> and <i>Oncometopia</i> Enlarged snouts of these sharpshooter nymphs house strong muscles that pump xylem fluid from the stem. Photo credit: Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/13/heres-looking-at-you-kid-eyed-click-beetle-ialaus-oculatusi monthly 0.5 2017-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1500236241601-VGIS7FLC0NJ7RJB1GS9D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid! Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i> False eyespots may help the eyed click beetle look scary to predators. Photo credit Mike Renna https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1499978759534-N88UUFC2Y3ABNAA4YASU/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid! Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i> The larva of the eyed elater has powerful jaws to kill its prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/9/what-is-that-strange-big-insect-dobsonflies-hellgrammites-and-fishflies-corydalidae monthly 0.5 2017-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1499638257351-1JO9XP8Y30CQEA7L6JTI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - What is that strange big insect? Dobsonflies, hellgrammites, and fishflies (Corydalidae) An image of this lovely female dobsonfly was one of several recently sent to Bug of the Week for identification. Photo credit: Randy Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1499638381123-CMV3MOODOJ6VU8RQ1A9V/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - What is that strange big insect? Dobsonflies, hellgrammites, and fishflies (Corydalidae) Extremely long mandibles of male dobsonflies are used to battle rivals. Photo credit: Nolan Jenkins https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/7/2/mother-natures-summer-light-show-lightning-bugs-lampyridae monthly 0.5 2017-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1499005120110-9I5W5J0SSAGCFF0JG6DF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mother Nature’s summer light show: Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Glowworms, the larval stage of lightning bugs, patrol the soil in search of worms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates that are their prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1499005291429-5KESVFE3AWH33T2V74ZL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mother Nature’s summer light show: Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Giant eyes help fireflies detect flashes of their mates. Lightly colored terminal segments of the abdomen house the organs that produce the magical light of the firefly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/6/26/requiem-for-early-risers-periodical-cicadas-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1498483113057-4J3A8ATAQ8UKU2D6YP9E/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Requiem for early risers: Periodical cicadas, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Egg nests on many trees attest to the reproductive success of cicadas above ground this year. In a few weeks, nymphs will hatch and plummet to earth seeking plant roots on which to feed. Good luck underground, you wild early risers! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/6/15/sweet-and-salty-solitary-sweat-bee-iaugochlora-purai monthly 0.5 2017-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1497550998424-9AGF3KYZBO8H8H8ZR9VK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Sweet and salty: Solitary sweat bee, <i>Augochlora pura</i> Sweat bees are among the most beautiful of visitors to flowers as they gather nectar and pollen for their young. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/6/12/recycling-ash-banded-ash-borer-ineoclytus-capreai monthly 0.5 2017-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1497275631612-XDW83CGTFOJMVS32ZS8R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Recycling ash: Banded Ash Borer, <i>Neoclytus caprea</i> It is easy to see why adult Banded Ash Borers belong to the family known as longhorned beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1497275965055-K0921DVLQLJRIFYY51ZZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Recycling ash: Banded Ash Borer, <i>Neoclytus caprea</i> Freshly felled ashes along the Potomac are the perfect place for Banded Ash Borers to raise their brood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1497276017047-AOTT04PTSUCVQJK3FVLH/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Recycling ash: Banded Ash Borer, <i>Neoclytus caprea</i> Creamy colored larvae of the Banded Ash Borer and their kin go by the name of roundheaded borers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/6/5/its-a-hard-knock-life-for-cicadas-imagicicadai-spp-and-their-enemies monthly 0.5 2017-06-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496673371265-UNE0MTJGLYGK53LBIZIC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - It’s a hard-knock life for cicadas: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. and their enemies Exactly how the much smaller stink bug nymph paralyzes the much larger cicada remains a mystery. Note the beak of the stink bug inserted into the cicada to extract the cicada’s blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496673716864-IPPBRSLILI4TOCXZBBTV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - It’s a hard-knock life for cicadas: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. and their enemies Massospora turns the cicada into a fungus garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496674138964-3WX37M1I6UUAIPBFZHNB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - It’s a hard-knock life for cicadas: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. and their enemies Hollow abdomens missing abdominal segments are hallmarks of the fungal infection. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/5/30/cicadas-how-to-tell-the-guys-from-the-gals-what-does-an-ovipositor-do-cicada-damage-and-how-to-prevent-it-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496153102488-9TPJKJ5TFXG891HLV71F/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicadas: How to tell the guys from the gals, what does an ovipositor do, cicada damage and how to prevent it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Cicada eggs will develop in the branch for more than a month before hatching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496150438525-Y0JUZIBZD8UHD1FNRG8X/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicadas: How to tell the guys from the gals, what does an ovipositor do, cicada damage and how to prevent it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Viewed from beneath, male cicadas have a domed- shaped segment at the tip of their abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496150326297-WB5MKK5BMVULKXEYMAB0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicadas: How to tell the guys from the gals, what does an ovipositor do, cicada damage and how to prevent it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Viewed from beneath, female cicadas have a distinct point at the tip of their abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496150786006-YFW6UMI31408XBPTG959/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicadas: How to tell the guys from the gals, what does an ovipositor do, cicada damage and how to prevent it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Young trees may sustain significant injury from egg-laying female cicadas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1496150968371-JG07EOBYNL83TGGXUKBQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicadas: How to tell the guys from the gals, what does an ovipositor do, cicada damage and how to prevent it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Netting can greatly reduce injury to small trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/5/21/cranking-up-the-big-boy-band-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-05-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1495395567427-4K1U5GBY8DY8D747H0HV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cranking up the Big Boy Band: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Next stop, treetop to find a mate. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/5/15/periodical-cicadas-up-and-out-of-the-ground-in-maryland-dc-and-virginia-imagicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-05-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1494854032939-AQDNQCG3MIO0CDFO1MMT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas up and out of the ground in Maryland, DC, and Virginia - <i>Magicicada</i> spp. A newly molted adult periodical cicada is ethereally beautiful with its pale wings and red eyes, but it will soon darken in color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1494854934600-6WNVDMWVTL19JNTJP44Y/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas up and out of the ground in Maryland, DC, and Virginia - <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Beautiful newly emerged periodical cicadas are making appearances on trees and shrubs throughout our region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1494856818487-Z5KNMG9Y2MK7MXCY8U7C/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Periodical cicadas up and out of the ground in Maryland, DC, and Virginia - <i>Magicicada</i> spp. By dawn, the cicada's exoskeleton has hardened and he is ready to join the big boy band assembling in the treetops. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/5/7/welcome-periodical-cicadas-of-brood-vi-and-perhaps-broods-v-and-x-imagicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2017-05-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1494161833852-39XJO98M17DGTV0CL9RQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome Periodical Cicadas of Brood VI and perhaps Broods V and X, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Handfuls of Brood X cicada nymphs appeared at my home in 2004. Will their offspring survive to reproduce if they make an early appearance in 2017? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1494161997827-UEEBD9HBFZ3GRA1GMOOO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome Periodical Cicadas of Brood VI and perhaps Broods V and X, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Galleries in my flower beds and beneath earthbound objects near my toolshed are a sure sign that periodical cicadas will soon make an appearance. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/4/29/good-bye-ash-trees-of-the-potomac-emerald-ash-borer-eab-iagrilus-planipennisi monthly 0.5 2020-05-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493477532855-DM7Q1O8HSJTOGHNYOMHE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Good bye ash trees of the Potomac: Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Emerald Ash Borer adults and larvae easily fit in the palm of your hand but when thousands attack a single tree, its fate is sealed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493477776341-XIOSRO42IPPCUQJ97O4K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Good bye ash trees of the Potomac: Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Along the C & O canal, woodpeckers remove the outer bark of ash trees as they search for larvae of Emerald Ash Bores on which to feast. This results in telltale “blonding” of the bark, a key sign of EAB infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493477877584-32P1G2RL8344OY0USXGT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Good bye ash trees of the Potomac: Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis D-shaped exit holes are a diagnostic clue left behind on the bark of ash trees when adults emerge from beneath the bark in spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493477950535-FUK2JT0KRP8OJR40PP7Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Good bye ash trees of the Potomac: Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Emerald Ash Borer larvae create serpentine galleries beneath the bark. By consuming cambium, phloem, and sap wood, the borer effectively girdles the tree condemning it to death. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493478047749-EE0VGY6Q8P2LKKI9NSSA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Good bye ash trees of the Potomac: Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Neighborhoods throughout Maryland are feeling the wrath of Emerald Ash Borer. In 2015 EAB came to college at the University of Maryland. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/4/24/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-29-2017 monthly 0.5 2017-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493039211197-NUP3MP3YNH7NSUQLVJ2N/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 29, 2017! Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1493039592728-94XYC04L7I71I143C4WT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo: Maryland Day, Saturday April 29, 2017! Hold a whip scorpion if you dare and find out how it defends itself. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/30/preserve-our-air-from-the-infection-of-dungs-rainbow-dung-beetle-iphanaeus-vindexi monthly 0.5 2017-04-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1490902797149-3VIST9KPHUQK17IQN1TJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> A gorgeous male rainbow dung beetle bears an amazing horn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1490903113548-1V5QFZ4R5SNJG4B3VMZO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> Dung beetle larvae will turn a pile of horse manure into remarkable beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1490903038928-WTOBK8ORPBV9UF07407A/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> Large mammals generate large amounts of waste. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/30/springs-first-mosquitoes-and-what-we-might-expect-this-year-with-zika-virus-and-the-yellow-fever-mosquito-iaedes-aegyptii monthly 0.5 2019-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1490899792236-QTYUZOA82GH6JB82Z5AA/aedesaegyptifeed_PS.jpg Current Issue - Spring’s first mosquitoes and what we might expect this year with Zika Virus and the Yellow Fever Mosquito, <i>Aedes aegypti</i> This yellow fever mosquito can drink three times her body weight in blood in less than 3 minutes. That’s like me drinking a four hundred and fifty pound milkshake. Yikes! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/11/parasitoids-at-the-porch-light-ichneumon-wasps-ophionine monthly 0.5 2017-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1489268610350-LNPXBCH4I5TV87IDENNK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Parasitoids at the porch light: Ichneumon wasps, Ophionine On warm nights in late winter and early spring ophionine wasps are regular visitors to my porchlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1489268852816-6012KBOZC6H37XTNNYGG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Parasitoids at the porch light: Ichneumon wasps, Ophionine A beautiful ichneumonid wasp rests on the chrysalis of a swallowtail butterfly from which it emerged. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/19/tiny-winter-leapers-snow-fleas-and-other-springtails-collembola monthly 0.5 2017-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1489950060320-68ZOTRT84U02HGVCLUMV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tiny winter leapers: Snow fleas and other springtails, Collembola Globular springtails are often found foraging for organic matter in snow on chilly forest floors. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/11/bloodsuckers-in-the-basement-subterranean-mosquito-iculex-pipiensi-form-imolestusi-1 monthly 0.5 2022-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1489267745906-GBWMFN0V6HQK6QFA1NWX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bloodsuckers in the basement: Subterranean mosquito, <i>Culex pipiens</i> form <i>molestus</i> As possible vectors of human disease, Culex pipiens form molestus is a femme fatale, both beautiful and potentially deadly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/3/6/ectoparasites-go-to-school-bed-bugs-in-dc-icimex-lectulariusi monthly 0.5 2017-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1488807162307-SUBDV4LPIVMAPORKZLZ4/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ectoparasites go to school: Bed Bugs in DC, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> Guess who is coming to dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1488807880719-XBLGTLCA9I3D5AUH8LIR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ectoparasites go to school: Bed Bugs in DC, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> President Lincoln sees just how small bed bug eggs really are. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1488807703343-9UFYOJLO6X4PASBDOQQ3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ectoparasites go to school: Bed Bugs in DC, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> Shed skins and dark spots of excrement on a sheet or a mattress are clues of a bed bug infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1488807997781-OVJ4O3ALK9M8DP9FA38C/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ectoparasites go to school: Bed Bugs in DC, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> Skin rash where bed bugs fed on sensitive individual. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/2/21/stingless-bees-in-the-rainforest-tribe-meliponini monthly 0.5 2018-03-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1487698947681-BYJN9NZCZIFM4MUCGIQN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stingless bees in the rainforest: Tribe, Meliponini Blondies perform guard duty at the entrance to the colony. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/2/20/butterflies-pumping-on-the-beach-daggerwings-imarpesiai-sp monthly 0.5 2017-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1487607254055-QC26XRAVEPE6U9RR8HKP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies pumping on the beach: Daggerwings, <i>Marpesia</i> sp. Marpesia are famous for striking patterns on their underwings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1487607776797-6IA30N1N39RKZ5PWRMEB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies pumping on the beach: Daggerwings, <i>Marpesia</i> sp. Beautiful colors on the upper wing surface are also standard attire for daggerwings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/2/13/at-night-in-the-rainforest-part-4-big-fangs-in-the-night-costa-rican-orange-mouth-tarantula-ipsalmopoeus-reduncusi-and-mexican-redrump-tarantula-ibrachypelma-vagansi monthly 0.5 2017-02-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1486994981126-H9P54ACPRT4WYAJ1XYVK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 4: Big fangs in the night! Costa Rican orange mouth tarantula, <i>Psalmopoeus reduncus</i>, and Mexican redrump tarantula, <i>Brachypelma</i> sp. This large female tarantula was living in a burrow beneath a stone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1486995341815-97G2CIB3R3MN4EIQZ67O/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 4: Big fangs in the night! Costa Rican orange mouth tarantula, <i>Psalmopoeus reduncus</i>, and Mexican redrump tarantula, <i>Brachypelma</i> sp. Large powerful fangs used to capture prey are the business end of a tarantula. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/2/6/at-night-in-the-rainforest-part-3-paper-nest-builders-ipolybiai-sp monthly 0.5 2017-02-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1486388132575-VTPW8VTHVKYVF6GWXGR2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 3: Paper nest builders, <i>Polybia</i> sp. Polybiine workers say “don’t even think about messing with this nest.” https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/1/30/at-night-in-the-rainforest-part-2-round-headed-katydids-iamblycoryphai-sp monthly 0.5 2017-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1485784215916-4COCRNWU6860HUL866H1/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 2: Round-headed katydids, <i>Amblycorypha</i> sp. How marvelously the venation on the wing of the katydid matches the veins of the leaves on which it hides from predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1485784471772-SYYSST0XIPD3NSCFXODS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 2: Round-headed katydids, <i>Amblycorypha</i> sp. Small dark openings on the forelegs of katydids are the “ears” used to hear the love songs of potential mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1485784528794-5D4HPBJSTY0U7Z73PSC2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest, part 2: Round-headed katydids, <i>Amblycorypha</i> sp. Round-headed katydids in the Costa Rican rainforest attain prodigious size. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/1/23/at-night-in-the-rainforest-whip-spiders-amblypygi monthly 0.5 2017-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1485179481263-VLZSSG3LA4LLE5PIZO7T/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest: Whip spiders, Amblypygi Greatly elongated front legs enable the whip spider to sense food, mates, and danger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1485179828534-47EAQH3XC8FLS1K89E5I/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - At night in the rainforest: Whip spiders, Amblypygi Once these spines get you, there is no escape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/1/16/tiny-hibernal-hunters-dusty-wings-coniopterigidae monthly 0.5 2017-01-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1484584249083-CYN081O8GKNS9SWSQR7W/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tiny hibernal hunters: Dusty-wings, Coniopterigidae Covered with white wax it’s easy to see how the dusty-wing got its name. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/1/9/tiny-wolves-in-sheeps-clothing-debris-carrying-lacewing-larvae-chrysopidae monthly 0.5 2017-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483967839232-8EHY62DFJR1BAQERU2F3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tiny wolves in sheep’s clothing: Debris carrying lacewing larvae, Chrysopidae Ferocious jaws of a lacewing larva protrude from its cloak of debris. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483967978730-ZH9L567BFRGV775Z9TBT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tiny wolves in sheep’s clothing: Debris carrying lacewing larvae, Chrysopidae Even in winter on a warm day, lacewing larvae can be found searching for prey on the trunks of trees. Photo credit Cathy Keifer https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483968094025-O9EJNA03PKI6R13902YL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tiny wolves in sheep’s clothing: Debris carrying lacewing larvae, Chrysopidae With the return of spring and warm weather lacewing adults will be found at porch lights and seeking tasty meals on plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2017/1/2/pantry-raiders-indian-meal-moth-iplodia-interpunctellai monthly 0.5 2017-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483366871820-J8U8FRXKQMGPS9E09G3W/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pantry raiders: Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella</i> Sparkling scales of brown, black, and silver give the Indian meal moth a rather comely appearance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483367149773-N8JEYJWBL6BMHUDZOGW7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pantry raiders: Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella</i> Indian meal moth caterpillars can chew through plastic and invade other bags of grain, seeds, and fruit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1483367078924-8UPQN3GDBS648ZYR8NDA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pantry raiders: Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella</i> Pheromone traps can be used to capture male meal moths and gage their activity and numbers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/12/27/santa-mantie-bids-you-all-a-wonderful-holiday-season monthly 0.5 2016-12-27 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/12/19/red-and-green-tailed-jay-igraphium-agamemnoni-and-cotton-stainers-idysdercusi-sp monthly 0.5 2016-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1482161797936-AUJM6YCNK29NICQ7A426/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Red and green: Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainers, <i>Dysdercus</i> sp. Plants like poinsettias and many insects derive their beautiful colors from light absorbing pigments. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1482161952564-EK0S0WB3KTBJSSCAI7EM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Red and green: Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainers, <i>Dysdercus</i> sp. Colors of the tailed jay butterfly are produced by thousands of scales on its wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1482162001341-9CZ9KHANAKERNFSV8BSX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Red and green: Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainers, <i>Dysdercus</i> sp. Bright pigments obtained from plants give the cotton stainer its bright red color. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/12/12/legends-of-christmas-tinsel-and-spiders monthly 0.5 2016-12-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1481560223136-7F6PW9HWNIRDPL966T7S/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Legends of Christmas Tinsel and Spiders It’s no surprise that the Bug Guy has a spider ornament on his Christmas tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1481560426261-5L5V6ZRDQFZBAY42CBJO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Legends of Christmas Tinsel and Spiders When morning dew glistens on silken strands, it's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1481560469170-FDWD3Y25ZI68UUSTVSIE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Legends of Christmas Tinsel and Spiders Spider egg sacs like these of the Basilica spider on holly sometimes inadvertently enter homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1481560523103-8EQ0SQ50GWXSCSFF8SX9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Legends of Christmas Tinsel and Spiders In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and decorate my tree with silk. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/12/5/decorations-on-the-christmas-tree-egg-cases-of-the-european-mantis-imantis-religiosai-chinese-mantis-itenodera-sinensisi-and-carolina-mantis-istagmomantis-carolinai monthly 0.5 2016-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480956331947-9ECGA02JEJCLJAHK9SGN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> A beautiful European praying mantis rests on a holly shortly before laying her eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480956540379-RO62YC1BS62L83NL7LWZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> If your Christmas tree has an ornament like this, you may have a holiday surprise! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480956728902-URQTVJ4QNGK1MQ5H9E2C/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> A gorgeous Carolina mantis waits for a meal or perhaps a mate who might be a dinner guest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480956973212-BS00FLCV9GR6GLDZWTCT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> An ootheca of the Chinese praying mantis snuck into my home on vine of bittersweet. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/11/28/beautiful-but-dangerous-black-widow-spiders-ilatrodectusi-spp monthly 0.5 2016-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480342920904-F4MP8Q0VKTNP3Z1LIU72/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beautiful but dangerous: Black Widow Spiders, <i>Latrodectus</i> spp. Red or orange spots on the underside of a bulbous abdomen are the hallmark of black widow spiders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480343725709-XGEQ2ZBQ3P3UBCJPCXQE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beautiful but dangerous: Black Widow Spiders, <i>Latrodectus</i> spp. Having paralyzed a hapless moth with venom and wrapped her victim in silk, the black widow will feed at leisure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1480343832203-L595TTEYYQPMTEVN5L0U/widoweggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful but dangerous: Black Widow Spiders, <i>Latrodectus</i> spp. Hundreds of spiderlings hatch from a single egg sac of the black widow and each female can lay several egg sacs annually. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/11/15/recycling-of-the-shrew-broad-headed-bug-imegalotomus-quinquespinosusi monthly 0.5 2016-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479244116030-GVWN7N5F2NH9U1A0ME4D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Recycling of the shrew: Broad-headed bug, <i>Megalotomus quinquespinosus</i> Handsome red foxes will deposit the remains of small mammals like shrews in piles of scat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479244385157-D0NBHVXL30ON1OF5ZOSF/scat1_1500.jpg Current Issue - Recycling of the shrew: Broad-headed bug, <i>Megalotomus quinquespinosus</i> Fur and bones in scats are telltale signs that a small mammal is well on its way down the decomposition cycle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479244475820-RBC55I5ZA04OTKPRPJOQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Recycling of the shrew: Broad-headed bug, <i>Megalotomus quinquespinosus</i> A freshly deceased shrew begins its journey through the decomposition cycle. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/11/14/an-autumn-sun-dance-mayflies-ephemeroptera monthly 0.5 2016-11-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479139610568-ULWZ6YHZDVSSX92L9H89/mayflyrose2016_adj.jpg Current Issue - An autumn sun dance: Mayflies, Ephemeroptera Beautiful but short lived mayfly adults survive only a matter of days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479139940319-H0F8WH934GWPZ48TTFKB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - An autumn sun dance: Mayflies, Ephemeroptera Pristine streams like this one in Shenandoah National Park are excellent breeding sites for mayflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1479140036917-6SU7P7N8EWOD184ZWCYH/mayflyrose2016_adj.jpg Current Issue - An autumn sun dance: Mayflies, Ephemeroptera Mayfly nymphs live the life aquatic and are good indicators of stream quality. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/11/1/bugs-in-orange-and-black-part-2-beautiful-but-stinky-gulf-fritillary-iagraulis-vanillaei monthly 0.5 2016-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1478030634436-0TECWNA3AIU4JCPRE4TG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 2, beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> The gorgeous Gulf fritillary butterfly harbors a couple of unpleasant surprises for any would-be predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1478202274911-LO2EM29HWY1HQAIFCUED/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 2, beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> Flowers of the passion vine are among the most magnificent in the plant world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1478202334366-HJNKOXRB0GN9QN26UYGL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part 2, beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> Striking contrasts of orange body and black spines may serve as a warning to predators to avoid making a meal of Gulf fritillary caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/10/25/bugs-in-orange-and-black-predator-and-prey-two-spotted-stink-bug-iperillus-bioculatusi-and-colorado-potato-beetle-ileptinotarsa-decemlineatai monthly 0.5 2016-10-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1477425334133-BZWUCZ6Y0DEZZKBTW3KM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black, predator and prey: Two-spotted stink bug, <i>Perillus bioculatus</i>, and Colorado potato beetle, <i>Leptinotarsa decemlineata</i> Bugs in orange and black, predator and prey: Two-spotted stink bug, Perillus bioculatus, and Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/10/19/a-flower-fly-grows-in-brooklyn-flowers-flies-syrphidae monthly 0.5 2016-10-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1476904371294-ZUMWKPHWYM8EFEQ7HNM9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A flower fly grows in Brooklyn: Flowers flies, Syrphidae Bands of yellow brown on flower flies mimic those found on stinging insects. This may deter would be predators from attempting an attack on the harmless flower fly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/10/14/when-aphids-fill-the-air-elm-cockscomb-gall-aphid-icolopha-ulmicolai monthly 0.5 2016-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1476469295346-DPBXH541A2R5BWAKLUBM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - When aphids fill the air: Elm cockscomb gall aphid, <i>Colopha ulmicola</i> This strange gall resembling the comb of a rooster is the early summer home for hundreds of aphids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1476469556771-UJIIGA86KMPCNBB428CB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - When aphids fill the air: Elm cockscomb gall aphid, <i>Colopha ulmicola</i> Overwintering female aphids seek a crevice or bark flap in which to lay a single egg to survive winter’s perils. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/10/10/singing-in-the-meadow-short-winged-meadow-katydid-iconocephalus-brevipennisi monthly 0.5 2016-10-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1476117424196-JD4U53NN1ZP2FMOPO87T/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Singing in the meadow: Short-winged meadow katydid, <i>Conocephalus brevipennis</i> Female katydids are easy to distinguish by the long egg-laying tube on their rear end. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/9/28/fall-is-the-season-for-cabbage-eaters-imported-cabbage-worm-ipieris-rapaei monthly 0.5 2016-10-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1475080006793-LOGNJG2QY87YBUM8CPQJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Fall is the season for cabbage eaters: Imported cabbage worm, <i>Pieris rapae</i> The adult is beautiful to behold, but caterpillars of the cabbage butterfly will wreak havoc on members of the cabbage family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1475080161589-6NCQZ1FKQNCMFI6ITVT3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Fall is the season for cabbage eaters: Imported cabbage worm, <i>Pieris rapae</i> Ragged holes and missing leaves are the handiwork of imported cabbageworms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1475080237873-UJ1FRCTRWTBPJ4KP9BQW/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Fall is the season for cabbage eaters: Imported cabbage worm, <i>Pieris rapae</i> A cabbage white laid this tiny fluted egg beneath a collard leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1475080295276-XEQISCTBDXUF43YQ4MRC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Fall is the season for cabbage eaters: Imported cabbage worm, <i>Pieris rapae</i> A chrysalis provides refuge for the cabbage white during winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1475080332061-MNBVCBWH77C4NI4AFY7A/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Fall is the season for cabbage eaters: Imported cabbage worm, <i>Pieris rapae</i> Hairs on the body of the imported cabbage worm secrete defensive compounds to repel would-be attackers. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/9/26/rain-tree-surprise-golden-rain-tree-bug-ijadera-haematolomai monthly 0.5 2016-09-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1474897788180-TR9ZIXIHE612U48BGKDM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise: Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma</i> From left to right: Jadera nymph, gravid female, and lucky male. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1474897978426-0UY13VHC7F31X3FNLHT6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise: Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma</i> This grove of golden rain trees serves dinner for thousands of golden rain tree bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1474898476466-TFLEDHWPU5L1GXPCB2V7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise: Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma</i> Nymphs of the golden rain tree bug suck nutrients from seeds within papery pods. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/9/14/welcome-class-of-2016-large-carpenter-bees-ixylocopa-virginicai monthly 0.5 2016-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1473876355159-KD7H3CRJAV1GE52LHINV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome class of 2016: Large carpenter bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> The morning dew glistens on the hairs of the yellow-faced male carpenter bee on the left and on the black-faced female carpenter bee on the right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1473877068175-55SGA1YJ6VOCTBXLWZFF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome class of 2016: Large carpenter bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> This large patch of spotted horsemint serves as a nocturnal roost for many carpenter bees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/9/11/two-other-orange-and-black-butterflies-variegated-fritillary-ieuptoieta-claudiai-and-great-spangled-fritillary-ispeyeria-cybelei monthly 0.5 2016-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1473601271794-KF7B269CCZVDE77J94KR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Two other orange and black butterflies: Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i>, and great spangled fritillary, <i>Speyeria cybele</i> Fritillaries find butterfly weed irresistible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1473601443197-PDNREOY463EM76NROHSA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Two other orange and black butterflies: Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i>, and great spangled fritillary, <i>Speyeria cybele</i> Within a breathtaking chrysalis, the variegated fritillary caterpillar becomes a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/9/5/bringing-home-the-bacon-paper-wasps-ipolistes-exclamensi monthly 0.5 2016-09-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1473089587436-HLTCZ7YGS0T3U5JH9446/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bringing home the bacon: Paper wasps, <i>Polistes exclamens</i> Paper wasps often frequent goldenrod in late summer and autumn to consume nutritious nectar and pollen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/8/23/thread-waisted-wasps-really-dig-spotted-horsemint-thread-waisted-wasp-ieremnophila-aureonotatai monthly 0.5 2016-08-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471975859676-TBC90TNBTC6DF9NRGSO4/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Thread-waisted wasps really dig spotted horsemint: Thread-waisted wasp, <i>Eremnophila aureonotata</i> Gotcha’ by the neck says the male Eremnophila aureonotata as he and his mate rest on a seed head in my garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471976060406-BXVZZGKFHU4KDWTRLYEE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Thread-waisted wasps really dig spotted horsemint: Thread-waisted wasp, <i>Eremnophila aureonotata</i> Spotted horsemint rocks with pollinators on late summer days. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/8/18/scary-potter-potter-wasps-eumeninae monthly 0.5 2016-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471541554058-OLPGFDZS7MQL105M0O8H/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Scary Potter: Potter wasps, Eumeninae Potter wasps eat nectar and pollen when not throwing pots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471541946796-DNZHADJMI8H57FMMJOX2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Scary Potter: Potter wasps, Eumeninae What wonders lie within this diminutive piece of earthenware? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471541989731-RG2WE1QPR8XYNXN91CCI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Scary Potter: Potter wasps, Eumeninae Green and brown caterpillars and the legless wasp larva fill the small pot. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/8/15/now-you-see-em-now-you-dont-silver-spotted-skipper-caterpillars-iepargyreus-clarusi monthly 0.5 2016-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471273632625-DAAV6W8FM6RSL4CFU9KS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Now you see ‘em, now you don’t: Silver spotted skipper caterpillars, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i> Silver spotted skippers are one of most rambunctious pollinators in the garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471273890904-KQIIBH4N7TVT26HM33ZI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Now you see ‘em, now you don’t: Silver spotted skipper caterpillars, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i> A young silver spotted skipper larva hides in a rolled leaf margin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471274094343-NY6WH9RSNU8PRTGZJ2IG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Now you see ‘em, now you don’t: Silver spotted skipper caterpillars, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i> Unfolding the silk-bound leaves reveals the bizarre caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1471274050046-RC422S5W1IAIUEC58L2L/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Now you see ‘em, now you don’t: Silver spotted skipper caterpillars, <i>Epargyreus clarus</i> A large silver spotted skipper larva has webbed together two leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/8/4/pawpaws-and-zebras-along-the-potomac-zebra-swallowtail-butterflies-iprotographium-marcellusi monthly 0.5 2020-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470334741815-IRMKI7LG11IPQX0Q6RFZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pawpaws and zebras along the Potomac: Zebra swallowtail butterflies, <i>Protographium marcellus</i> Zebra swallowtails consume carbohydrate rich nectar to power their search for pawpaws, the food for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470335091158-DP2GP192WLGASTGJLGJM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pawpaws and zebras along the Potomac: Zebra swallowtail butterflies, <i>Protographium marcellus</i> Pawpaw will soon produce its delicious crop, one of the largest edible fruit of any native North American tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/8/1/save-some-milkweed-for-me-monarchs-and-the-milkweed-tussock-moth-ieuchaetes-eglei monthly 0.5 2024-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470061628829-M771P2B5GT5QU4V9WWDC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Save some milkweed for me! Monarchs and the milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle Hairy caterpillars of the milkweed tussock moth resemble “Cousin Itt” as they feed on leaves of milkweed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470062289907-4776HWET6E4CLSQC4QMJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Save some milkweed for me! Monarchs and the milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle Larvae of the milkweed leaf beetle may also eat significant quantities of milkweed leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470062630799-RABEDP1TVVP4CFS31AXK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Save some milkweed for me! Monarchs and the milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle Milkweed longhorned beetles feed on leaves of milkweed, but leave plenty for monarch caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1470063938989-EMEJ2X5KPBNXQ7Y5BNYG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Save some milkweed for me! Monarchs and the milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle Milkweed bugs prefer seed pods to leaves when dining on milkweed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/7/25/mounds-of-mountain-marvels-allegheny-mound-ant-iformica-exsectoidesi monthly 0.5 2016-07-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1469456241606-331QG3ZDLO60VQ16YNWM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mounds of mountain marvels: Allegheny mound ant, <i>Formica exsectoides</i> With jaws engaged a drop of venom is squirted on the skin of the victim to leave a more lasting impression of the encounter with an Allegheny mound ant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1469456566327-MRIW6VLACPK8OTJZQNG5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mounds of mountain marvels: Allegheny mound ant, <i>Formica exsectoides</i> Even modest Allegheny mound ant nests can bring a smile to an entomologist’s face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1469456668992-I9RW9WJYAOILOJ8603O2/alleghenyvents1500.jpg Current Issue - Mounds of mountain marvels: Allegheny mound ant, <i>Formica exsectoides</i> Vents around the perimeter of the nest allow ants to enter and leave. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/7/18/one-gorgeous-beetle-dogbane-leaf-beetle-ichrysochus-auratusi monthly 0.5 2016-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1468850278584-XSAT0BYS0CREPAUJXI27/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - One gorgeous beetle: Dogbane leaf beetle, <i>Chrysochus auratus</i> True to its Latin root aurat, meaning gold, the dogbane leaf beetle has hews of gold and its alloys of green, blue, yellow, and red. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/7/7/carpenter-bee-holes-make-a-perfect-home-for-giant-resin-bee-imegachile-sculpturalisi monthly 0.5 2016-07-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1467903742443-OX1PYXJRCKHJMDNTJUQJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carpenter bee holes make a perfect home for giant resin bee, <i>Megachile sculpturalis</i> Notice the intricate pattern of sculpting on the head of the giant resin bee. Photo credit Sam Droege, USGS. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/7/4/oxeye-surprise-false-milkweed-bug-ilygaeus-turcicusi monthly 0.5 2016-07-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1467644400787-A5BER19YGRROAG5SP24E/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Oxeye surprise: False milkweed bug, <i>Lygaeus turcicus</i> With beak extended, this little beauty prepares to poke the oxeye for a nutritious meal. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1467644708072-JFKR2NY0U4ODDTLX4JSV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Oxeye surprise: False milkweed bug, <i>Lygaeus turcicus</i> Oxeyes are a spectacular native attractor of beneficial insects and a great place to lose yourself with bugs. Photo credit Michael Raupp https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/6/27/turning-the-tables-on-milkweeds-milkweed-longhorned-beetle-itetraopesi-sp monthly 0.5 2020-06-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1467032640523-G9PAK0JEVWSGN3OLPGYE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Turning the tables on milkweeds: Milkweed longhorned beetle, Tetraopes sp. During the early weeks of summer, milkweed longhorned beetles often adorn beautiful flower heads of milkweed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1467032813607-N680MFEKIHWUW2UUJM8Y/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Turning the tables on milkweeds: Milkweed longhorned beetle, Tetraopes sp. When milkweeds are in bloom, it is an excellent time to visit the meadow. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/6/20/a-bee-or-not-a-bee-that-is-the-question-syrphid-fly-volucella-bombylans monthly 0.5 2016-06-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1466435278788-NE9062FHTYBLW2S3W8XO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A bee or not a bee? That is the question! Syrphid fly, <i>Volucella bombylans</i> Not a bee! Notice the single pair of wings and short, feathery antennae of the flower fly Volucella. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1466435665627-LNEJEGCO9TYS2TFUX3O8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A bee or not a bee? That is the question! Syrphid fly, <i>Volucella bombylans</i> A bee! See the two pairs of wings, one large and one small, and longer elbowed antennae of a bumble bee. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/6/9/mason-bee-peril-parasitic-wasps-ileucospis-affinisi monthly 0.5 2016-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1465498041888-405AKF1EAPJ62KCTJMRK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bee peril: Parasitic wasps, <i>Leucospis affinis</i> Anatomically unusual leucospid wasps have their egg-laying tube slung over the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1465498296592-33GNSVQH8NNHED2I6L3O/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bee peril: Parasitic wasps, <i>Leucospis affinis</i> My mason bee colony of cardboard tubes and holes drilled in logs will soon be attacked by parasitic wasps. Some will perish. Most will survive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1465498488873-HRJP6KA4T1M72QS4R5H3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bee peril: Parasitic wasps, <i>Leucospis affinis</i> Parasites of an unknown species brought an end to these mason bee babies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/30/ug-of-the-week-is-slug-of-the-week-leopard-slug-ilimax-maximusi monthly 0.5 2016-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464616508857-AWAKSMGFZIMG41YNTMDW/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week is ‘Slug of the Week’: Leopard slug, <i>Limax maximus</i> Note the silvery slime trail left behind by the slug. Slime trails on plants and the ground are a sure sign of slug activity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464616943388-R98X3T2N8I0MT8KVPU0U/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week is ‘Slug of the Week’: Leopard slug, <i>Limax maximus</i> Doomed pansies show the scars of slug attack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464617021615-XAYTPK8JR5RCF7DVIWSM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week is ‘Slug of the Week’: Leopard slug, <i>Limax maximus</i> Slugs often lay eggs in batches under wood or leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/30/cicada-surprise-brood-v-and-straggling-periodical-cicadas-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2016-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464615605119-W9FSXPPHGYJ5PPZ9JAP8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicada surprise! Brood V and straggling periodical cicadas, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Rare blue eyed cicadas made their debut in Morgantown this week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464616125322-75NTO02A0RM5Y6ZVDY0O/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cicada surprise! Brood V and straggling periodical cicadas, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Nothing beats freshly baked chocolate chip cicada cookies after a long day of hunting cicadas. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/23/whos-been-sucking-on-my-bee-balm-fourlined-plant-bug-ipoecilocapsus-lineatusi monthly 0.5 2016-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464015647656-0FPALI6HKI82N3CLGN5D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Who’s been sucking on my bee balm? Fourlined plant bug, <i>Poecilocapsus lineatus</i> The fourlined plant bug adult has an artful arrangement of alternating black and greenish or yellowish stripes down its back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464015857203-5LX91NA5BQ5TGOBY04FL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Who’s been sucking on my bee balm? Fourlined plant bug, <i>Poecilocapsus lineatus</i> Necrotic spots on leaves are the handiwork of fourlined plant bug adults. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1464015932806-THVBGQ1HBWIJOWKKNGNW/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Who’s been sucking on my bee balm? Fourlined plant bug, <i>Poecilocapsus lineatus</i> My poor monardas bear signature distorted leaves with irregular holes after plant bug nymphs are finished with them. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/16/an-oil-gathering-bee-icentris-nitidai monthly 0.5 2016-05-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1463408568938-QX1K033JNBPSCW6AWGGV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - An oil-gathering bee, <i>Centris nitida</i> Powerful jaws grasp the base of a flower petal providing Centris nitida with traction necessary for collecting floral oils from the Stigmaphyllon blossom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1463408727131-JM6GRJBTP06ER3WUMTKF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - An oil-gathering bee, <i>Centris nitida</i> Like other members of the Malpighiaceae, Stigmaphyllon ciliatum produces floral oils used by oil-gathering bees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/9/playing-mind-games-with-the-seedcorn-maggot-idelia-platurai monthly 0.5 2016-05-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462808407315-FW4Z1ML8QQOCPEK0W9DZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Playing mind games with the seedcorn maggot, <i>Delia platura</i> With their tiny minds controlled by the zombie-izing fungus, flies move to the tips of branches - all the better for the fungus to spread its spores. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462808659552-MHOQZUU31KRPGBUKSSEP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Playing mind games with the seedcorn maggot, <i>Delia platura</i> Translucent seedcorn maggots infest seed in cool wet springs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462809003675-Z29VOKNSORJ33QD71BRY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Playing mind games with the seedcorn maggot, <i>Delia platura</i> Fungal spores are bustin’ out all over the place on this seedcorn maggot fly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462809073002-0MPF4VESO1BXCGS44KGX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Playing mind games with the seedcorn maggot, <i>Delia platura</i> This little seedling didn’t stand a chance after seedcorn maggots went to work on its roots. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/5/2/zika-and-yellow-fever-mosquitoes-take-2-where-in-the-us-is-the-yellow-fever-mosquito-iaedes-aegyptii monthly 0.5 2022-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462200329907-QPJ4A4P8QDPYFUQK9I2P/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Zika and yellow fever mosquitoes, Take 2: Where in the US is the Yellow Fever Mosquito, Aedes aegypti? This yellow fever mosquito can drink three times her body weight in blood in less than 3 minutes. That’s like me drinking a four hundred and fifty pound milkshake. Yikes! Blood loss credit: M. J. Raupp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1462201068972-APGZ6A6FJKN8HKH1WE2R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Zika and yellow fever mosquitoes, Take 2: Where in the US is the Yellow Fever Mosquito, Aedes aegypti? CDC recently updated range maps of the potential distributions of the yellow fever mosquito and the Asian tiger mosquito in the US. Please note that these maps do not indicate risk that mosquitoes will spread viruses in these areas. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/4/25/sorry-dc-and-baltimore-no-periodical-cicadas-for-you-this-year-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2016-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1461595048178-QWTY4LBZI2SWWFDFADMQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. For parts of Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio, cicada romance will soon be in the air! But alas, not for DC, Baltimore, Phillie, or the Big Apple. Our turn comes in 2021 with Brood X. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1461595873095-YAOF0EZ56PJKVL4Y8OLB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Sorry DC and Baltimore, no periodical cicadas for you this year: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. In May, cicada nymphs will appear by the handful in areas treated to Brood V. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/4/18/aprils-march-flies-bibionidae monthly 0.5 2016-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1460989677911-09ZP58R7E771IERGXMWR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - April’s March flies: Bibionidae This female March fly is about to launch skyward to find the fly of her dreams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1460990193245-2AKMNUV72STJ02UJYG0Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - April’s March flies: Bibionidae Large eyes of the male March fly provide excellent vision for chasing competitors and selecting mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1460990439200-YMZBACV61NESETXBR27X/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - April’s March flies: Bibionidae March flies like this little beauty help pollinate spring blooming trees and shrubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/4/11/get-ready-for-the-pale-marsh-mosquito-iochlorotatus-dorsalisi monthly 0.5 2016-04-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1460382764195-1L0QBH3OY0HZ1CV1OJ6K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Get ready for the pale marsh mosquito, <i>Ochlorotatus dorsalis</i> Pale marsh mosquitoes will soon make their presence known along rivers, swamps, and coastal areas across the United States. Note the tumbler in the upper left corner. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/4/4/time-for-ticks-lone-star-tick-iamblyomma-americanumi-blacklegged-ticks-iixodesi-spp-and-american-dog-tick-idermacentor-variabilisi monthly 0.5 2022-05-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459792499489-MAD1WM3TODM3FGSDOBEB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Time for ticks: Lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, Blacklegged ticks, Ixodes spp., and American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis Fully engorged ticks are enormous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459792712755-GRAWSVZGEABDCOGATB2J/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Time for ticks: Lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, Blacklegged ticks, Ixodes spp., and American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis The Bug Guy’s lone star tick chose the belt line as the spot to dine. A small red rash at the point of feeding is common after ticks feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459792851781-05YY9PMT0PIZI8NDVAO0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Time for ticks: Lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, Blacklegged ticks, Ixodes spp., and American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis A bull’s eye rash is one of the characteristic symptoms of Lyme disease. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459792949799-VPZAQDK3FPCQYE206GAE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Time for ticks: Lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, Blacklegged ticks, Ixodes spp., and American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis Clockwise from the top: blacklegged tick, lone star tick, and American dog tick. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/3/28/food-for-caterpillars-food-for-birds-cherry-trees-and-eastern-tent-caterpillars-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2016-04-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459173955699-WFH27L8B8B88OJGI6BTN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Food for caterpillars, food for birds: Cherry trees and Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459174728786-P0FPX3KI1NMENENYF3ET/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Food for caterpillars, food for birds: Cherry trees and Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> Forsythia blossoms herald the return of eastern tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459174931836-TRJJKNB7YF19YLO3CRK2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Food for caterpillars, food for birds: Cherry trees and Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> When larval feeding is complete, mature caterpillars wander and find protected locations such as beneath loose bark to spin silken cocoons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1459175180731-9XI63BEFEWB0ZD8K1UJ0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Food for caterpillars, food for birds: Cherry trees and Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped by hungry tent caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/3/21/ypjy69edi0fxtsio22pjq6ewsoqr2e monthly 0.5 2016-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1458571480970-35PLXF0KLGZ9CEVKW5NB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Boxelder bugs on the move, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> With the return of spring, boxelder bugs are out and about. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1458571647575-J72L5X20DPF21GWWAPBM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Boxelder bugs on the move, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Wing buds on the sides of boxelder bug nymphs elongate with each molt. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/3/14/cd2et9rn1mkywum0dcxo8wwe9aafe4 monthly 0.5 2016-03-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1457970982345-XY8TX551PAUAQ5JR64J2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make an early debut, <i>Osmia spp.</i> Noxious bee-mites hitch a ride on the back of a hornfaced mason bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1457971623677-5JTMJ404V2DKM19H6R8E/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make an early debut, <i>Osmia spp.</i> Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1457972184151-80QJKZKWJ6UUSJEFHNB7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make an early debut, <i>Osmia spp.</i> Glorious yellow pollen cakes line each cardboard tube and gallery. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/3/7/lousy-times-human-head-louse-ipediculus-humanus-capitisi-and-human-body-louse-ipediculus-humanus-humanusi monthly 0.5 2016-03-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1457364483835-KU0C2IP6XMNFH5ADTF9U/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Lousy times: Human head louse, <i>Pediculus humanus capitis</i>, and human body louse, <i>Pediculus humanus humanus</i> Human body lice diverged from their head inhabiting kin when fabric and fur replaced bare skin as the predominant fashion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1457364824699-HS91EYOY0JELEAE3B2PD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Lousy times: Human head louse, <i>Pediculus humanus capitis</i>, and human body louse, <i>Pediculus humanus humanus</i> Scores of lice eggs, a.k.a nits, can be found in clothing of those infested with body lice. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/2/29/bug-of-the-week-academy-awards-2016 monthly 0.5 2019-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456764161812-DRWRBA49S15JYW1K9DNG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2016 Red carpet fashions in the insect world rival anything seen in Hollywood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456763195582-BXZ1XFE5CQUV63PETQG5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456763239578-CRM2TFORXIUHM2TVHNAT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456763290319-TII5XR5P870VT8ZZLXE0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2016 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456763323021-MP6GWJTPFKJY1B0HT57N/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week Academy Awards 2016 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/2/22/cutting-leaves-here-and-there-leafcutter-bees-megachilidae-and-leafcutter-ants-iattai-spp monthly 0.5 2016-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456156340889-DAPAMDAVVW4GVU7G41B3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cutting leaves here and there: Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae, and leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Keep an eye out for circular cuts on leaf margins of trees and shrubs in your garden. This is likely the handiwork of marvelous leafcutter bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456157116519-RNPJYODRZU8ZJEWQPYOV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cutting leaves here and there: Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae, and leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. In a tree hollow leaf sections are rolled into a tube and packed with pollen to feed bee babies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456157318347-DYBE95ZKNCF6X5YHWW9E/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cutting leaves here and there: Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae, and leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Powerful jaws of the soldier can dismember small invertebrate predators and inflict painful bites on larger vertebrates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1456157365115-U4BY8VO2VNXZI7RKFXNJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cutting leaves here and there: Leafcutter bees, Megachilidae, and leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Leafcutter ants don’t leave much behind when defoliating favored plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/2/15/ant-bodyguards-here-and-there-odorous-house-ants-itapinoma-sessilei-and-carpenter-ants-icamponotusi monthly 0.5 2016-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1455553941955-FONUPDD1SJDWB1DEP1G3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ant bodyguards here and there: Odorous house ants, <i>Tapinoma sessile</i>, and carpenter ants, <i>Camponotus</i> Your honeydew is served. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/2/8/bugs-in-love-lovebugs-kissing-bugs-and-other-insects-engaged-in-intimate-activities monthly 0.5 2016-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454949234762-V7U97Z98YGIYH2311GGM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities A dinner date with webworms on the menu hits the spot for two amorous wheel bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454949569941-SLOLFJ2IZO8T7QR6U0VS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities This pair of Hercules beetles doesn't mind a public display of affection. Males bear impressive horns used in combat with other males. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454949662783-6ZFXYT3A0ZR7W7KO2F3K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities Lovebugs conjoin for hours during the mating season. FYI male on the left, female on the right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454950134167-1EGSYF9BZ4H5QETGOVIM/kissingbug1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs, kissing bugs, and other insects engaged in intimate activities Kissing bugs get their name by sucking blood from people's lips. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/2/1/zika-virus-and-its-vector-yellow-fever-mosquitoes-iaedes-aegyptii monthly 0.5 2016-02-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454337308598-5P9Z2PRPUH3FM301RT8E/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Zika virus and its vector: Yellow Fever Mosquitoes, <i>Aedes aegypti</i> Concern exists that Asian tigers like this one in my backyard may serve as vectors for Zika virus in the US. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454338022605-5BHEXFNFY2OODVFFC3NX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Zika virus and its vector: Yellow Fever Mosquitoes, <i>Aedes aegypti</i> https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1454338458727-8L9FS1SW9V87T6NHSZO3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Zika virus and its vector: Yellow Fever Mosquitoes, <i>Aedes aegypti</i> https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/1/18/carbo-loading-here-and-there-odorous-house-ants-itapinoma-sessilei-and-harvester-ants-ipogonomyrmexi monthly 0.5 2016-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1453124955631-KLZX61BRJFHNKOK3ZIM9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carbo-loading here and there: Odorous house ants, <i>Tapinoma sessile</i>, and harvester ants, <i>Pogonomyrmex</i> Odorous house ants circle for their last meal, a lethal drink of sugary bait laced with poison. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/1/13/carpenter-ants-here-and-there-icamponotusi-spp monthly 0.5 2016-01-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1452718051897-X50TNDX2FA0ZPGLV2R8R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carpenter ants here and there: <i>Camponotus</i> spp. These jaws were made for chewing wood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1452719038949-AHOVSNYFL2GCI02SIJ95/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carpenter ants here and there: <i>Camponotus</i> spp. En garde! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/1/10/froghoppers-and-spittlebugs-here-and-there-cercopidae-and-aphrophoridae monthly 0.5 2016-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1452484204847-SE03QCQH619U94QP5IZ3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Froghoppers and spittlebugs here and there: Cercopidae and Aphrophoridae Cute spittlebug nymphs create a frothy mass for protection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1452484352907-G3AXVNEV6YDPT0K74BSC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Froghoppers and spittlebugs here and there: Cercopidae and Aphrophoridae Many temperate spittle bugs like the pine spittle bug are rather drab. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1452484871905-ZGWO98Y5TM7JW9UPTTPZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Froghoppers and spittlebugs here and there: Cercopidae and Aphrophoridae What lies beneath the bubbles of spittle? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2016/1/4/paper-nests-here-and-there-baldfaced-hornets-idolichovespula-maculatei-and-tropical-nest-builders-ipolybiai-spp monthly 0.5 2016-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1451921433494-1H4WF9TOYV8LVNLWJIP8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Paper nests here and there: Baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i>, and tropical nest builders, <i>Polybia</i> spp. Polybiine workers say, “Don’t even think about attacking this fortress.” https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/12/21/tis-the-season-to-inspect-your-hemlocks-for-hemlock-wooly-adelgid-iadelges-tsugaei monthly 0.5 2015-12-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1450718508298-2HYEG52OV2CF6RGP4ECE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - ‘Tis the season to inspect your hemlocks for hemlock wooly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> White bundles of fluffy wax are a sure sign of a woolly adelgid infestation on hemlocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1450718677855-O6BGIMS7Y86DMKN76R8R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - ‘Tis the season to inspect your hemlocks for hemlock wooly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> Eastern hemlocks are beautiful native trees well suited for landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1450718716085-B0BVV61POM5FZ1X0GRPO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - ‘Tis the season to inspect your hemlocks for hemlock wooly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> The hemlock woolly adelgid has killed thousands of eastern hemlocks, such as these in Shenandoah National Park. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/12/14/green-is-good-for-holly-berry-midge-iasphondylia-ilicicolai monthly 0.5 2015-12-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1450102405324-OVOBF5XFDUB8SD4BA962/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Green is good for holly berry midge, <i>Asphondylia ilicicola</i> What’s the deal with all the green berries on a holly tree? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1450102548167-4W6AYUCYTAMTK3220D07/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Green is good for holly berry midge, <i>Asphondylia ilicicola</i> The small dusky winged holly berry midge leaves behind a brown papery pupal case as it emerges from the green holly berry. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/12/7/holly-surprise-native-holly-leafminer-iphytomyza-ilicicolai monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1449500722096-ZWJWHEO9J9NMZJICQI3V/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Holly surprise: Native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola Snakelike galleries are a sure sign of native holly leafminers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1449500885448-WILA6DT0ZDDI62RJ0WZL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Holly surprise: Native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola The leafminer’s dark mouthparts (right end) puncture cells, releasing nutrients for the hungry maggot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1449501215587-IBQSEU93DS4FU5YEEM4T/Adult+leafminers1500.jpg Current Issue - Holly surprise: Native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola Adult holly leafminers resemble small houseflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1449501295099-E776DGI8YMVAC0ZRRUDV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Holly surprise: Native holly leafminer, Phytomyza ilicicola Female flies puncture leaves and slurp up nutritious droplets of sap leaving behind telltale holes and puckered leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/11/30/lost-episodes-my-what-a-long-tail-you-have-little-wasp-the-american-pelecinid-wasp-ipelecinus-polyturatori monthly 0.5 2015-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1448897145292-X21POHALCM3V533QZJGH/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Lost episodes: “My, what a long tail you have little wasp. The American pelecinid wasp, <i>Pelecinus polyturator</i>” This beautiful American pelicinid female uses her prodigious abdomen to lay eggs on grubs in the soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1448897526163-B3T72FSL96DRF3B0UFB3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Lost episodes: “My, what a long tail you have little wasp. The American pelecinid wasp, <i>Pelecinus polyturator</i>” White grub larvae such as this one are food for the developing larvae of the pelecinid wasp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/11/23/spiders-in-corners-part-2-cellar-spider-ipholcus-phalangioidesi monthly 0.5 2022-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1448289117335-74JR3RPDHMN3E7W1SO8Y/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in corners, part 2: Cellar spider, Pholcus phalangioides It’s easy to see why cellar spiders are often called daddy-long-legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1448289496401-NNQT74ISZ09TUYKCR3BZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in corners, part 2: Cellar spider, Pholcus phalangioides A pile of tiny insect carcasses often mark the spot of a cellar spider’s lair. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/11/12/spiders-in-corners-part-1-common-house-spider-iparasteatoda-tepidariorumi monthly 0.5 2016-01-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1447353187258-IK54ZUJZBOYYAOSNFPGK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in corners, Part 1: Common house spider, <i>Parasteatoda tepidariorum</i> It’s often a topsy- turvy world for common house spiders like this one on the roof of my carport. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1447353504269-3ZBJEGZ5X4A5DQ92L0MJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in corners, Part 1: Common house spider, <i>Parasteatoda tepidariorum</i> Common house spiders have no regrets about dining on members of their own kind. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/11/9/twiggy-the-northern-walkingstick-idiapheromera-fermoratai monthly 0.5 2015-11-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1447083418280-BK0IZ46YLPEXJ4274T3U/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Twiggy: The Northern Walkingstick, <i>Diapheromera fermorata</i> Stick or insect? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1447083709640-O7EJT4PLUPCYWBGPMVP0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Twiggy: The Northern Walkingstick, <i>Diapheromera fermorata</i> Northern Walkingsticks sometimes cause serious defoliation of hardwood trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/11/2/aphids-serve-a-tasty-autumn-treat-white-pine-aphid-icinara-strobii monthly 0.5 2015-11-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1446479244486-QU2ICB2T801TAHQ0FZNU/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Aphids serve a tasty autumn treat: White pine aphid, <i>Cinara strobi</i> An exceptionally long beak at the front of its head allows the white pine aphid to tap into carbohydrate rich phloem. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1446479553333-74ZFXL0WGRNWHWCCMWI7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Aphids serve a tasty autumn treat: White pine aphid, <i>Cinara strobi</i> Dark wet patches of honeydew on a sidewalk mark the spot where white pine aphids feed on branches above. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1446479595197-OTDSE49IDXMC1TOT7J1X/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Aphids serve a tasty autumn treat: White pine aphid, <i>Cinara strobi</i> Foliage and branches coated with honeydew will soon be blackened by the growth of sooty mold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1446479645294-Z0F5B3UZ8F5DPK1X2RKY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Aphids serve a tasty autumn treat: White pine aphid, <i>Cinara strobi</i> White pine aphids will survive wicked winter as eggs lining the needles of white pine. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/10/26/bugs-in-orange-and-black-part-ii-halloween-lady-beetle-the-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-iharmonia-axyridisi monthly 0.5 2021-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445867106315-UUI4V02MGXGXM5IHXQIQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: Halloween Lady Beetle - the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis With the remains of the last victim clenched in her jaws, a multicolored Asian lady beetle is ready to find her next meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445867467910-0Z53VZNQTVMJHBEV4W26/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: Halloween Lady Beetle - the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis During her lifetime, a single female lady beetle may lay hundreds of eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445867685293-I55IPFGB5WM1IBOVDK6H/harmlarvs807adj.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: Halloween Lady Beetle - the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis Harmonia larvae look like tiny alligators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445868953239-HY0WYL857TDE11O3ORD4/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part II: Halloween Lady Beetle - the Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, Harmonia axyridis Asian multicolored lady beetles often share overwintering sites with another invader from Asia, the brown marmorated stink bug. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/10/19/bugs-in-orange-and-black-part-i-an-ermine-moth-ailanthus-webworm-iatteva-aureai monthly 0.5 2015-10-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445265476680-5UA67ZAAG6TXBX3L0RM1/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part I: An ermine moth, ailanthus webworm, <i>Atteva aurea</i> Many moths are nighttime feeders, but beautiful ermine moths feed during the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1445266328701-U9LUO4PDX929NG51GLI7/ailanthuswebworm1500.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black, Part I: An ermine moth, ailanthus webworm, <i>Atteva aurea</i> Ugly nests at the tips of Tree of Heaven branches are the hallmark of ailanthus webworm. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/10/12/beware-of-zesty-drinks-yellow-jackets-ivespulai-bumble-bees-ibombusi-and-honeybees-iapisi-can-really-spice-up-soft-drinks monthly 0.5 2022-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1444654046258-N81TUEPNK77T0OJXP4OJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beware of zesty drinks: Yellowjackets, Vespula, bumble bees, Bombus, and honey bees, Apis, can really spice up soft drinks Yellowjackets enjoy picnic treats like applesauce in October. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/9/28/spiders-in-the-mist-funnel-weaving-spider-pennsylvania-grass-spider-iagelenopsis-pennsylvanicai monthly 0.5 2015-10-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1443473071996-T7F4DMTB8OCCJ4O2DZYM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in the mist: Funnel weaving spider, Pennsylvania Grass Spider, <i>Agelenopsis pennsylvanica</i> Ready to pounce on an unlucky passerby, the dappled Pennsylvania Grass Spider waits in the mouth of her funnel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1443473473177-OF2HFXBL016KRG1Z3SJM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spiders in the mist: Funnel weaving spider, Pennsylvania Grass Spider, <i>Agelenopsis pennsylvanica</i> A foggy morning mist reveals the handiwork of funnel weaving spiders. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/9/28/got-stink-bugs-let-us-know-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2018-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1443446962664-CZSS6SC371QBLRVO2RJX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Got stink bugs? Let us know! Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Bark feeding is a strange behavior stink bugs employ in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1443447733415-ZEKS24IOU3NA3F69L563/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Got stink bugs? Let us know! Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Stink bugs check out a shutter as a potential winter refuge. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/9/18/tough-to-be-a-hornworm-tomato-and-tobacco-hornworms-imanduca-quinquemaculatai-and-im-sextai monthly 0.5 2015-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1442587738902-ZRMY9OOD6Y38XQSYPAM9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tough to be a hornworm: Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and <i>M. sexta</i> While cryptic coloration may help small hornworms escape searching eyes of hungry vertebrate predators, parasitic wasps are not so easily fooled and the guardians of my garden soon made short work of this little rascal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1442588012104-MM5NLNAFLSMT1BEGEG2D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tough to be a hornworm: Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and <i>M. sexta</i> Leaves of my tomato were the last meal for this hornworm and parasitic wasps had the last laugh. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1442588064540-XJB2WTBQPGS72QUIXN2G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tough to be a hornworm: Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and <i>M. sexta</i> The gorgeous hawk moth pollinates plants at night and lays eggs on tomatoes that hatch into naughty hornworms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1442588463265-BR3V78EH31QVAB62LCVO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tough to be a hornworm: Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and <i>M. sexta</i> In addition to leaves, tomato fruit are on the hornworm’s menu as well. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/9/5/to-sting-a-stinger-saddleback-caterpillar-iacharia-stimulaei-and-brachonid-wasp-icotesiai monthly 0.5 2015-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1441462046429-VD5G5M60E6V2RS1BPR8R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - To sting a stinger: Saddleback caterpillar, <i>Acharia stimulae</i>, and brachonid wasp, <i>Cotesia</i> Front, rear, and along the flanks, poison glands in the skin of the caterpillar prepare a potent toxin delivered by urticating hairs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/9/5/io-io-its-off-to-work-we-go-io-moth-iautomeris-ioi monthly 0.5 2015-09-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1441460729764-X0QQ4P9VAW4HRZMG0VLV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Io, io, it’s off to work we go: Io Moth, <i>Automeris io</i> Io caterpillars are a chummy lot, often dining together. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1441461374955-156CWD4AVJIWBD4TWZ0Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Io, io, it’s off to work we go: Io Moth, <i>Automeris io</i> False eyespots on the hind wing may help beautiful male (top) and female (bottom) Io moths gain protection from hungry predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1441461557589-DADKD76LEHNQQE6XX22Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Io, io, it’s off to work we go: Io Moth, <i>Automeris io</i> Wicked stinging spines can deliver a nasty sting to naïve predators and humans. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/8/31/dog-days-and-their-cicadas-ineotibiceni-formerly-itibiceni-species monthly 0.5 2015-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1441035468159-7O8C9OZOV71UFME0IFZN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Dog days and their cicadas, <i>Neotibicen</i> (formerly <i>Tibicen</i>) species A late night sortie may reveal a newly emerged adult and its shed nymphal skin. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/8/24/monarchs-and-mojitos-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440426770409-BVRK0LA14K1ZMK6LKRK6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Monarchs and Mojitos: Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Monarch butterflies are frequent visitors to Maryland, and will be celebrated this week at the Howard Conservancy in Woodstock, Maryland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440428167590-EIX6EPYCBV3R2HPCE1ZY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Monarchs and Mojitos: Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Female monarchs place eggs on the underside of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440428441704-I4IWXD085B0QM9O40XV5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Monarchs and Mojitos: Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The fully-grown caterpillar assumes the “J” position just before pupation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440428504705-P79V57DRM3F1SD9A6EFP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Monarchs and Mojitos: Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The monarch’s chrysalis is among the most beautiful in the entire realm of butterflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/8/17/the-great-black-wasp-turns-yellow-great-black-wasp-isphex-pensylvanicusi monthly 0.5 2015-08-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439816380927-50D6MY1X43KHCQPGLLLJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The great black wasp turns yellow: Great black wasp, <i>Sphex pensylvanicus</i> After visiting horsemint, the back and head of the great black wasp are coated with pollen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439817276776-S91MR5XA9K1J1VG1MV3K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The great black wasp turns yellow: Great black wasp, <i>Sphex pensylvanicus</i> Despite being larger than its abductor, angel-wing katydids fall victim to the great black wasp and become food for its spawn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/8/10/bad-lady-beetles-mexican-bean-beetles-iepilachna-varivestisi monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439206942072-NAU6GLXKXUMRRRUB3A73/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bad lady beetles: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis When harassed by predators or entomologists, Mexican bean beetles release irritating chemicals that can turn your skin orange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439208690337-0EHZXGCV0XEVDV0RDUH9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bad lady beetles: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis Unprotected beans are devastated by Mexican bean beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439208767681-MYA8N8E6MV40BCOQTYUS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bad lady beetles: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis Tiny jaws of larvae and adults remove leaf tissue, creating a type of damage called etching or skeletonization. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439209294571-F58M44ZNHR1GXXJN90FQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bad lady beetles: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis Beneath the leaf’s surface larvae transform into adults inside the pupal case. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1439209372844-WHBDJKZDTJHYM5N8641D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bad lady beetles: Mexican bean beetles, Epilachna varivestis Beans protected by a floating row cover (cover pulled back) look great even late in the season. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/7/29/cucurbit-catastrophe-squash-vine-borer-imelittia-cucurbitaei monthly 0.5 2015-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1438192654012-73Y0EN43AU20A8QH8XHK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cucurbit catastrophe: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> The squash vine borer adult may be beautiful, but its voracious larvae can devastate cucurbits in your garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1438195109585-O96XP3ZHHTO2QT65TR8Y/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cucurbit catastrophe: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Is it just drought or is something nefarious behind my wilted vines? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1438195420707-159A4V92FA1IWUDFZSD6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cucurbit catastrophe: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Frass marks the spot of the squash vine borer larva. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1438195769573-ZVVPXWS9EOVHMVSOW0DL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cucurbit catastrophe: Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae</i> Tiny caterpillars will hatch from reddish eggs deposited by the female squash vine borer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/7/21/lawn-zoomers-green-june-beetle-icotinus-nitidai monthly 0.5 2015-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1437496263239-6XMYB75D8A7KD7HU57QH/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Lawn zoomers: Green June Beetle, <i>Cotinus nitida</i> Oh my, doesn’t a Green June beetle look lovely on a flower. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/7/16/wolves-on-a-summers-night-wolf-spiders-lycosidae monthly 0.5 2015-07-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1437075416667-2T27YEZWII1CJ5QSEZF0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Wolves on a summer’s night: Wolf spiders, Lycosidae Sometimes wolf spiders enter homes, like this little mother in my basement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1437076274780-PPVW678TBR5A6XPNFZRD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Wolves on a summer’s night: Wolf spiders, Lycosidae The good mother totes the egg sac behind her to safeguard unhatched young. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/7/13/summer-hummer-hummingbird-moth-ihemaris-thysbei monthly 0.5 2015-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1436805533519-R29W0IHA3TM0QOL8U4X2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Summer hummer: Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe</i> Hummingbird moths are among the most beautiful and interesting members of the Lepidoptera clan. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1436806367961-3OE84QWVLAQ4SS6N46E2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Summer hummer: Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe</i> The caterpillar of the hummingbird moth bears a horn at the tip of its tail that gives rise to the colloquial name of these larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/7/1/a-fly-with-a-golden-touch-mydas-fly-imydas-clavatusi monthly 0.5 2015-07-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1435775679800-H2A19QMIGE1MS2TZ20HA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A fly with a golden touch? Mydas fly, <i>Mydas clavatus</i> Mydas flies are among the largest of all flies in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1435776082122-GGYXQ6ITLH4HJRW18Q9J/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A fly with a golden touch? Mydas fly, <i>Mydas clavatus</i> Stealthy black wings of the mydas fly give it a waspish appearance. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/6/29/blossom-buster-oriental-beetle-anomala-orientalis monthly 0.5 2015-06-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1435590106956-QP54Q9W3E5N0Z2Z26MTN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Blossom buster: Oriental beetle, <i>Anomala orientalis</i> The scoundrel despoiling petals of my coneflowers is the Oriental beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1435590862368-LU5B1E6EO27MHG5YQHWX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Blossom buster: Oriental beetle, <i>Anomala orientalis</i> Like other species of white grubs, Oriental beetle larvae consume the nutritious roots of plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/6/16/deadly-dining-three-lined-potato-beetle-ilema-daturaphilai monthly 0.5 2015-06-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1434484965900-GZ73D1YYP4JKKMOS0J89/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Deadly dining: Three-lined potato beetle, <i>Lema daturaphila</i> A dinner of nightshade is deadly to some, but not to the three-lined potato beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1434485622321-83MAPWINR2SLESOMMP6M/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Deadly dining: Three-lined potato beetle, <i>Lema daturaphila</i> A messy cluster of eggs will soon hatch into hungry beetle larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/6/11/swallowtail-trifecta-black-swallowtail-ipapilio-polyxenesi-spicebush-swallowtail-ipapilio-troilusi-and-giant-swallowtail-ipapilio-cresphontesi monthly 0.5 2015-06-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1434045371191-OJ34AXPDEL129TDCFVS2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Swallowtail trifecta: Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i>, Spicebush swallowtail, <i>Papilio troilus</i>, and Giant swallowtail, <i>Papilio cresphontes</i> Late instar larvae of the black swallowtail are breathtaking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1434046186202-3BV56EFHC9M3A8T0N6X5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Swallowtail trifecta: Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i>, Spicebush swallowtail, <i>Papilio troilus</i>, and Giant swallowtail, <i>Papilio cresphontes</i> Large snake-like eyespots on the body might give a hungry bird second thoughts about attacking this caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1434047315190-CYP9EAYGEC0L9WMWWLKN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Swallowtail trifecta: Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i>, Spicebush swallowtail, <i>Papilio troilus</i>, and Giant swallowtail, <i>Papilio cresphontes</i> Black swallowtails deposit eggs on many plants, including dill. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/6/8/butterflies-behaving-badly-lepidoptera-puddling monthly 0.5 2015-06-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1433775688297-G5BR0RO7KDZ4G14YISMK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies behaving badly? Lepidoptera puddling When not foraging on nectar, the eastern tiger swallowtail often seeks minerals by puddling in soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1433780909892-V7W8GAGKC6DUP6S0451F/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies behaving badly? Lepidoptera puddling Moist forest soil attracts mixed species of puddlers like these red spotted purple and hackberry butterflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1433776947894-XWME8RM9LQSAN8HFSMKC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies behaving badly? Lepidoptera puddling Oh no, don’t put that in your mouth! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1433777080853-34GFWOFDGGD7S0Q56RGN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Butterflies behaving badly? Lepidoptera puddling Perspiration is a good source of minerals. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/5/27/ground-beetles-up-in-the-air-icalosoma-wilcoxii-and-icalosoma-scrutatori monthly 0.5 2015-06-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432755806478-NO95PU16WC07OXI0JP5L/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ground beetles up in the air: <i>Calosoma wilcoxi</i> and <i>Calosoma scrutator</i> Calosoma wilcoxi (right) is about one third the size of its cousin, the fiery searcher Calosoma scrutator (left). https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/5/25/cankerworm-conundrums-fall-cankerworm-ialsophila-pometariai monthly 0.5 2015-05-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432560460924-CU0FON19HCS6TQAIE2BY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cankerworm conundrums: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Fall cankerworm caterpillars come in two color morphs, light green and dark brown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432561675197-1UNG7K7086TN51KELT79/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cankerworm conundrums: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Shredded leaves are the hallmark of cankerworms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432561813817-ZVBUSZX4WM4KZDQMD592/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cankerworm conundrums: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> The female fall cankerworm is a strange creature with non-functional mouthparts and no wings. She walks rather than flies to the tree tops to lay eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432561992097-CYAM4KR6IIP7CCRUXCG1/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cankerworm conundrums: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Fall cankerworms lay eggs in late autumn and early winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1432563052283-MXIC22M0FQ6Q5STOEEMJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Cankerworm conundrums: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Repeated defoliations by cankerworms weaken trees causing dieback and death in some cases. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/5/17/the-next-invader-spotted-laternfly-ilycorma-delicatulai monthly 0.5 2015-05-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1431882577439-DZIR0YZM8E1408G1WUB6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The next invader: Spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> Spectacularly beautiful but nonetheless pests, spotted lanternflies have arrived in the United States. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1431950017062-116HHRK4NAFTCIHN6QYF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The next invader: Spotted lanternfly, <i>Lycorma delicatula</i> It’s easy to see how the non-descript egg masses of the lanternfly sneak past human detection and move about the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/5/7/carpenter-bees-defending-territories-large-carpenter-bee-ixylocopa-virginicai monthly 0.5 2015-05-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1431027210298-SLUSCK1FE94VVFV8L78C/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carpenter bees defending territories: Large carpenter bee, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Later in the summer, goldenrod will be a favorite source of nectar for carpenter bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1431028820389-2PA0IWK6YYZCUCCYMU0W/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Carpenter bees defending territories: Large carpenter bee, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> A round hole chewed into a piece of wood provides access to the chambered brood tunnels inside. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/5/4/spring-beauties-mining-bees-iandrena-erigeniaei monthly 0.5 2015-05-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430742614019-9T3AURF2SNKU1TJRXKDZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spring beauties: Mining bees, <i>Andrena erigeniae</i> With scopa loaded with pink pollen from spring beauties, this little gal is almost ready to return to the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430743259366-1AQN03LJ49VWR1FY598P/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spring beauties: Mining bees, <i>Andrena erigeniae</i> Go to the forest and see the spring beauties. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/4/27/bmore-battles-the-beetle-emerald-ash-borer-iagrillus-plenipennisi monthly 0.5 2015-04-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430142842121-T9SPWJMKBDR14LC2CF2R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - B’more Battles the Beetle: Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Beautiful, but deadly, an Emerald Ash Borer emerges from a tree after completing larval development. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430143957049-9CF1QVOAJYD1BX36YCKP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - B’more Battles the Beetle: Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Legless Emerald Ash Borer larvae like these two are easily moved in firewood, logs, or branches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430144177225-E3HL3B2BBLPZE2RQFJ6G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - B’more Battles the Beetle: Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Emerald Ash Borer larvae create serpentine galleries beneath the bark. By consuming cambium, phloem, and sap wood, the borer effectively girdles the tree condemning it to death. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430144258218-IWGSF353Z57A95H89MMA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - B’more Battles the Beetle: Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Dieback in the canopy and heavy activity by woodpeckers are two strong indicators that an ash may be infested by Emerald Ash Borer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1430144366275-MJ7NM1XCRYEWBK1OE04N/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - B’more Battles the Beetle: Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> The Emerald Ash Borer adult leaves behind a “D” shaped exit hole in the bark of the tree. This is a good clue for diagnosing the presence of this pest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/4/20/come-one-come-all-to-explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-maryland-day-saturday-april-25-2015 monthly 0.5 2015-04-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1429539415111-XD2GU002PMV8ZTA9N7JV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 25, 2015! Children of all ages will have a great time at the Maryland Day Insect Petting Zoo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1429539665245-KVWOZT6SHG2KEGV9JVWV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 25, 2015! Lubber locusts have lubberly faces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1429539929836-GTUPLJ593XI0ZMI8KS52/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Come one, come all to explore the Insect Petting Zoo – Maryland Day, Saturday April 25, 2015! Find out how the whip scorpion defends itself. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/4/13/mason-bees-make-their-belated-debut-iosmiai-spp monthly 0.5 2015-04-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428927912417-3XSX247LQYUHMRT9NWNO/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make their belated debut, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428929798384-HGXYTBTE6ZLMS0CAG5UF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make their belated debut, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Mason bee larvae consume pollen cakes prepared by their mother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428930588363-V8ONEFB1PLR79SIEC5J6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason bees make their belated debut, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Noxious bee-mites hitch a ride on the back of a hornfaced mason bee. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/4/3/stinky-exodus-underway-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2018-11-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428071446320-N0GQF9M9REVHY0H34QQ5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stinky exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> This unpopular guest may soon be making an appearance in your home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428072458919-E0K88J1RFWRP26JN5BOB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stinky exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Let us out of here! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1428073252212-1FVM36LS4EE8RF8BDS28/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stinky exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Brown marmorated stink bugs aren’t shy about helping themselves to the bounty of your garden. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/3/30/spring-sunshine-heralds-the-appearance-of-plasterer-bees-icolletesi monthly 0.5 2015-03-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1427721302880-GU6A77U7HO0SVEYVZGU3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spring sunshine heralds the appearance of plasterer bees: <i>Colletes</I> What is the guy with the camera looking at? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1427721616976-RWB469VV67C2ODVGZ7QR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Spring sunshine heralds the appearance of plasterer bees: <i>Colletes</I> When soil conditions are just right, plasterer bee galleries can be very numerous. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/3/23/welcome-spring-and-honey-bees-how-do-you-fare-iapis-melliferai monthly 0.5 2015-03-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1427119536683-XMTE7OOLGWV3VND3KVFJ/1honeybee.jpg Current Issue - Welcome spring and honey bees, how do you fare? <i>Apis mellifera</i> Honey bees and their allies are responsible for pollinating crops which comprise about every third bite of food we eat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1427120081314-SE1DI3XBFWWL1OPAIBO4/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome spring and honey bees, how do you fare? <i>Apis mellifera</i> With the introduction of parasitic mites, many hobbyist beekeepers lost their colonies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/3/16/whips-in-xibalba-whip-spiders-amblypygi monthly 0.5 2015-03-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1426511322505-TRLVB57R6S81J6ZIE7P5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba: Whip spiders, Amblypygi Through this limestone cavern we entered Xibalba, the kingdom of the dead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1426511724808-TRRK57652IUGZZTR20LZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba: Whip spiders, Amblypygi In the dim light of Xibalba a whip spider waits with outstretched legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1426511792295-8BF3ADYCHGKVTZS6WS39/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba: Whip spiders, Amblypygi Crazy long legs enable the whip spider to find food and mates and avoid predators in the darkness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1426511858860-DOGJY7XHU9D3K00Q52V7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba: Whip spiders, Amblypygi Once these spines get you, there may be no escape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/3/6/battling-bewildering-botlass-flies-in-belize-black-flies-simuliidae monthly 0.5 2015-03-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1425658617926-RBBFZAWH5T0I14V5XBEH/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Battling bewildering botlass flies in Belize: Black flies, Simuliidae Rushing rivers provide an ideal habitat for black fly larvae to develop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1425659204709-VEJ7Y06PLD2RW80FJ2QR/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Battling bewildering botlass flies in Belize: Black flies, Simuliidae Strange black fly larvae live the life aquatic where they attach to rocks and feed on minute animals and plants on the surface of the substrate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1425659071706-1TSLGIE32KXFED0TSFTA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Battling bewildering botlass flies in Belize: Black flies, Simuliidae Amazing reddish welts and swollen legs were the handiwork of Belizean black flies suffered by many of the students and faculty who met these vicious vampires. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/3/2/how-one-hot-spider-keeps-her-cool-in-the-tropics-golden-silk-spider-inephila-clavipesi monthly 0.5 2015-03-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1425308773087-0NHRF6MVUBV6QU8IW6S0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - How one hot spider keeps her cool in the tropics: Golden silk spider, <i>Nephila clavipes</i> A small dragonfly is next on the lunch menu of this beautiful predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1425309373592-XM6D7WAZMD7PAGOUPNM3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - How one hot spider keeps her cool in the tropics: Golden silk spider, <i>Nephila clavipes</i> The silvery carapace on the back of the spider may reflect strong tropical sunlight aiding in the spider’s ability to beat the heat. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/2/23/beautiful-but-stinky-gulf-fritillary-iagraulis-vanillaei monthly 0.5 2015-02-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424708478827-TJVP95WZJMC7VPQXWRXN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> The gorgeous Gulf fritillary butterfly harbors a couple of unpleasant surprises for any would-be predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424708878409-X4SILU1YHGKMR4F369IV/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> Flowers of the passion vine are among the most magnificent in the plant world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424709179936-6ID9N7AER7FUFFD8SVYC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beautiful but stinky: Gulf fritillary, <i>Agraulis vanillae</i> Striking contrasts of orange body and black spines may serve as a warning to predators to avoid making a meal of Gulf fritillary caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/2/16/how-belizean-butterflies-best-their-enemies-polydamas-swallowtail-ibattus-polydamasi monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424093246337-75O8FNHN77PY0WU1JR2F/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - How Belizean butterflies best their enemies: Polydamas Swallowtail, Battus polydamas Pipevine is a perfect place to deposit eggs for the female Polydamas swallowtail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424094554813-ZUZN238CJE758F41N5UN/image-asset.png Current Issue - How Belizean butterflies best their enemies: Polydamas Swallowtail, Battus polydamas Members of the pipevine family, such as the strange pelican flower vine, are too toxic for some Battus species to consume as larvae, but not so for rugged caterpillars of the Polydamas swallowtail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424094311393-AOIDXYO9LA1QNFBELB5T/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - How Belizean butterflies best their enemies: Polydamas Swallowtail, Battus polydamas Eggs are often laid near the tips of vines where tender young leaves will soon appear and then disappear down the gullets of hungry caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1424094351862-E3Z7T84T0UKMVCLRZCJF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - How Belizean butterflies best their enemies: Polydamas Swallowtail, Battus polydamas Young Battus caterpillars are a chummy lot and often feed in clusters. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/2/9/dating-games-of-peacock-butterflies-white-peacock-butterfly-ianartia-jatrophaei-and-banded-peacock-butterfly-ianartia-fatimai monthly 0.5 2015-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1423494281240-MWFKUNNUA0S9FJBAA6JL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Dating games of peacock butterflies: White peacock butterfly, <i>Anartia jatrophae</i>, and banded peacock butterfly, <i>Anartia fatima</i> A gorgeous white peacock butterfly surveys a marshy meadow at the edge of the rainforest in Belize. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1423495353970-2FGPH5GOE9ZH6XEXHWPB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Dating games of peacock butterflies: White peacock butterfly, <i>Anartia jatrophae</i>, and banded peacock butterfly, <i>Anartia fatima</i> Contrasting colors of dorsal wing bars make the banded peacock one of the most beautiful butterflies in the rainforest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/2/2/the-bodyguard-ipseudomyrmexi-ants-protecting-bullhorn-acacias monthly 0.5 2015-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422977781514-XG5UQSMKT02X6D7M1AUS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The bodyguard: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants protecting bullhorn acacias Nectaries at the base of the leaf’s petiole provide a rich source of energy for busy Pseudomyrmex ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422892778387-4YPR76PMUQNR5E2G4BN3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The bodyguard: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants protecting bullhorn acacias The bullhorn acacia is armed with a variety of defenses against hungry animals and competitive plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422977885732-RKDHRBJG9IZJVL7RB2NS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The bodyguard: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants protecting bullhorn acacias Small holes in the Acacia thorn allow ants to enter and exit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422893066585-SCYUF7NASLQ4PF1O582L/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The bodyguard: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants protecting bullhorn acacias Nutrient rich orange Beltian bodies at the tips of leaflets are harvested by acacia ants and fed to the queen and colony. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/1/26/tropical-fungus-gardeners-leafcutter-ants-iattai-spp monthly 0.5 2015-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422296407469-HPCMVABZ8OKJAS1VUT0Q/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners: Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Jaws of leafcutter ant soldiers can open wounds even on large vertebrates like nosy humans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422299430988-MEQRDRTPSN032446W4IX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners: Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Ventilation shafts cool the underground ant colony and provide for the exchange of gasses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1422300272368-U6UAFGKN7SQMQ5V7OWKL/leafcutterdam+copy.jpg Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners: Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta</i> spp. Leafcutters don’t leave much behind when defoliating favored plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/1/19/belizean-squirt-nozzle-headed-termites-inasutitermes-spi monthly 0.5 2017-11-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421674883741-HEGWE35IRM6QIX8GFMYA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Belizean Squirt: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.</i> The termite soldier squirts defensive chemicals at enemies through the elongated snout called a nasus on its head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421676631027-6P2OKLOBWZPNBBBRMBEQ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Belizean Squirt: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.</i> Sometimes termite nests are found high in trees . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421676692280-KED8F8BRZMUJ4SQZH5M9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Belizean Squirt: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.</i> Dark trails mark the foraging routes of termites on tree trunks as they search for food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421676519723-RTDJ0MND71QLX2T4WFSY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Belizean Squirt: Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.</i> Large termite nests like this one at the base of a tree contain thousands of termites. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/1/12/take-2-on-tropical-tiger-moths-spotted-oleander-caterpillar-moth-iempyreuma-affinisi monthly 0.5 2015-01-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421086705642-V4FUE9WNBBWZ4JNOGIVY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Take 2 on tropical tiger moths: Spotted oleander caterpillar moth, <i>Empyreuma affinis</i> Vivid orange and black warning coloration and resemblance to a wasp may help the beautiful spotted oleander caterpillar moth escape hungry predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421088173273-QM2WNQZB5RR11VJL4YY2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Take 2 on tropical tiger moths: Spotted oleander caterpillar moth, <i>Empyreuma affinis</i> When colonists brought oleander to the New World, this plant of Mediterranean origin was readily fed upon by the spotted oleander caterpillar, a native of the Caribbean region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421088892825-OZGIYJVC1F0TIN1KN1PJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Take 2 on tropical tiger moths: Spotted oleander caterpillar moth, <i>Empyreuma affinis</i> https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1421089223193-BUKK073TOSWIGQ14NK3G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Take 2 on tropical tiger moths: Spotted oleander caterpillar moth, <i>Empyreuma affinis</i> https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2015/1/5/doubling-down-on-defense-the-polka-dot-wasp-moth-isyntomeida-epilaisi monthly 0.5 2015-01-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1420482223415-7LP7H3NC9KBEAK8CA2N3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i> A waspy appearance and warning coloration may help this beautiful moth escape sharp beaks of hungry birds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1420483184025-AIPUNZB3NWO48S4GUOPY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i> When colonists brought oleander to the New World, this plant of Mediterranean origin became an important larval food source for the polka-dot wasp moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1420484268484-JUUS77P3OHMFEL15P1SY/oleanderpup1500.jpg Current Issue - Doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i> A spotted oleander caterpillar prepares to join its siblings in the act of pupation beneath an overhang of an apartment building. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1420483520964-8Q1COOXA6TS47D0W6I3I/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i> Oleander caterpillars are easily distinguished from spotted oleander caterpillars by spots and hair tufts lining their bodies. Oleander caterpillars have dark spots and black hair tufts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1420483607821-B3RWIXYDC262W521PHNN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Doubling down on defense: The polka-dot wasp moth, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i> Whereas spotted oleander caterpillars have light colored spots and reddish-brown hair tufts. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/12/22/surviving-winter-part-iv-a-monarch-christmas-in-monterey-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2021-08-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1419266335706-UBLOUVS9DKVEP6R5IHS1/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part IV: A Monarch Christmas in Monterey, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Monarchs wish you Happy Holidays! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1419267186473-3IBEVFR36SAOTXLRE5CD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part IV: A Monarch Christmas in Monterey, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Homeowners in Pacific Grove, CA, celebrate the historic presence of monarchs in their town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1419266773030-WU96WS3OKT6WFTVRHXYJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part IV: A Monarch Christmas in Monterey, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Hundreds of monarchs festoon branches of Monterey pines in the sanctuary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1419266700751-5UUGFMXE4TT15HJL731I/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part IV: A Monarch Christmas in Monterey, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> In a residential section of Pacific Grove, CA, small signs direct visitors to the Monarch Sanctuary. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/12/15/tinsel-and-the-christmas-spider monthly 0.5 2014-12-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1418653935187-AA4OS90AZU7U7XMPZYGL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider It's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1418654289477-VIUQE5SX0FYMMETKNIEO/4spidertinsel1200_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider Yes Virginia, there is a spider ornament on my Christmas tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1418654438328-K9894APO01YNSZ0R48UX/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider Spider egg sacs like these of the Basilica spider on holly sometimes inadvertently enter homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1418654568326-34DT8ZHP12UD9NZZ42KN/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and decorate my tree with silk. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/12/2/surviving-winter-part-iii-egg-cases-of-the-praying-mantis-imantis-religiosai-chinese-mantis-itenodera-sinensisi-and-carolina-mantis-istagmomantis-carolinai monthly 0.5 2014-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417541035394-L8N5E5Y1759YXSO4K9KW/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part III: Egg cases of the Praying mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> An ootheca of the Chinese praying mantis snuck into my home on a vine of bittersweet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417541294964-AK1WWCODGB0X4UCAJQ6Q/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part III: Egg cases of the Praying mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> Tiny Carolina mantises emerge from their egg case and hunt small insects in spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417541360434-U8K5X02YZC7YNLM5J1MT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part III: Egg cases of the Praying mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> A beautiful European praying mantis rests on a holly shortly before laying her eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417541651815-Z1BD5UN2JWYS9WAC7HLQ/mrootheca1500.jpg Current Issue - Surviving winter, Part III: Egg cases of the Praying mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> If your Christmas tree has an ornament like this, you may have a praying mantis as a holiday surprise. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/12/1/a-beautiful-spider-marbled-orb-weaver-iaraneus-marmoreusi monthly 0.5 2014-12-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417445089835-MUB78VDV8VVSKDQ8OHXW/marbledzeldow1500.jpg Current Issue - A beautiful spider: Marbled orb weaver, <i>Araneus marmoreus</i> Marbled orb weavers can be found in residential landscapes and fields from spring until late autumn in Maryland. Despite its scary appearance this orb weaver poses little threat to humans greater than 2 inches tall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1417445303817-B4WXS6QNZK0WBBMLZENP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A beautiful spider: Marbled orb weaver, <i>Araneus marmoreus</i> When not hiding in their retreat, marbled orb weavers sometimes hang out in the center of their web. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/11/14/pumpkin-eaters-fruit-flies-drosophilidae monthly 0.5 2014-11-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415991020139-I21TQOSLTHA2E7GULT0W/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin eaters: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae Jack O’ Lanterns will soon be recycled by fruit flies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415991462201-NFV8MUDXA5GQU74X3RUZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Pumpkin eaters: Fruit flies, Drosophilidae Yeasty odors of fermenting fruit and wine vinegar lure fruit flies to their death. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/11/10/winter-survival-part-1-european-hornet-ivespa-crabroi monthly 0.5 2017-08-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415632292668-PE2FS5JPJL3VB0FSIU2K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Winter survival, Part 1: European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> Fallen pears are a good source of carbohydrates for these giants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415633475844-7MDLVVUXDR5KKQZ03D9I/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Winter survival, Part 1: European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> This large nest came from a wall void in my neighbor’s home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/11/3/one-last-song-the-curve-tailed-bush-katydid-iscudderia-curvicaudai monthly 0.5 2021-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415025892017-YNY74LIBSKVA1AJLKPT4/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - One last song: The curve-tailed bush katydid, Scudderia curvicauda Small dark openings on the front legs just below the “knees” of this little beauty are the “ears” of the katydid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1415026233371-GBGU8LEKMNBJVDKLJ6Q0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - One last song: The curve-tailed bush katydid, Scudderia curvicauda Eggs of katydids are often deposited on small branches of trees and shrubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/10/27/bugs-in-orange-and-black-iii-halloween-edition-milkweed-longhorned-beetles-itetraopesi-sp monthly 0.5 2014-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1414420252678-A1QADMDCCJ38RF2UL19D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black III, Halloween edition: Milkweed longhorned beetles, <i>Tetraopes</i> sp. With antennae almost as long as its body it is easy to see where the milkweed longhorned beetle gets its name https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/10/20/bugs-in-orange-and-black-ii-large-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi monthly 0.5 2014-10-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1413821657716-JPGA6C8M1F320SAVSQ5X/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black II: Large milkweed bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i> Tiny milkweed bug nymphs crowd a seed head in late summer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/10/13/bugs-in-orange-and-black-i-milkweed-leaf-beetle-ilabidomera-clivicollisi monthly 0.5 2014-10-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1413216695216-FXCJQS8KEJ2WGVBPJ3PT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black I: Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i> This adult milkweed leaf beetle is already in costume for Halloween. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1413217261373-LN1BUJZIDUL84NKHDF36/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black I: Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i> Butterfly weed attracts a host of insects in orange and black, in addition to myriad butterflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/10/6/be-careful-around-yellow-jackets-eastern-yellowjackets-ivespula-maculifronsi monthly 0.5 2022-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1412598121479-1O090CQDDY5QZX1MFSRY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Be careful around yellowjackets: Eastern yellowjackets, Vespula maculifrons Yellowjackets often stop by picnics to share snacks like applesauce. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1412598827231-E2FM2WB2XSET0OOWPFES/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Be careful around yellowjackets: Eastern yellowjackets, Vespula maculifrons Natural sources of carbohydrates include honeydew from scale insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/9/29/friendly-soldiers-soldier-beetles-ichauliognathusi-spp monthly 0.5 2014-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1412004462289-TSSYKX635PPVSPA97I52/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, <i>Chauliognathus</i> spp. Velvety soldier beetle larvae attack many ground and plant dwelling pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1412005268708-DPIFNIX8E63EUDXSA8K5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, <i>Chauliognathus</i> spp. The goldenrod leatherwing, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, is a frequent visitor to goldenrod in late summer and autumn. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/9/22/stink-bugs-on-the-move-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2019-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1411399075664-B4SZGJEGDO73P8YE7YDK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stink bugs on the move: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys This brown marmorated stink bug is looking for just the right crack, crevice or home in which to spend the winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1411400024192-4P3VYXP1X01H8ZKMB5NC/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Stink bugs on the move: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys Stink bugs check out a shutter as a potential winter refuge. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/9/15/be-careful-around-baldfaced-hornets-idolichovespula-maculatai monthly 0.5 2014-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1410790810351-AJ2U7DF0YI49ENYP9CUA/baldfaceguard1500.jpg Current Issue - Be careful around baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> Baldfaced hornet nests can be the size of beach balls and contain hundreds of hornets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1410791075152-GL3SS0BO4AIXCDWQTHU5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Be careful around baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> A guard protects the entrance to a nest near the ground in a shrub. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/9/8/move-over-american-camel-crickets-asian-camel-crickets-are-in-town-iceuthophilusi-sp-american-camel-crickets-and-idiestrammenai-sp-asian-camel-crickets monthly 0.5 2014-09-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1410189178078-3XC7T6956LMRKS3JZVGB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Move over American camel crickets, Asian camel crickets are in town: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> sp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> sp. (Asian camel crickets) Super long antennae help camel crickets navigate dark places and powerful legs help them escape nosy entomologists. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1410189414258-702QRXWMT1ZKOBDZ0L75/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Move over American camel crickets, Asian camel crickets are in town: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> sp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> sp. (Asian camel crickets) Fecal spots left by camel crickets create a foul ambiance to the interior of a tool shed . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1410189476141-XH0BIBS3JNH50A3PWZUT/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Move over American camel crickets, Asian camel crickets are in town: <i>Ceuthophilus</i> sp. (American camel crickets) and <i>Diestrammena</i> sp. (Asian camel crickets) Sticky traps like this will snare not only cockroaches but camel crickets as well. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/9/1/white-grubs-beware-the-blue-winged-digger-wasp-iscolia-dubiai-has-arrived monthly 0.5 2014-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1409573542627-86PDWG1RK4IDSSHSOTA8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - White grubs beware! The blue-winged digger wasp, <i>Scolia dubia</i>, has arrived When not hunting white grubs, Scolia dubia is often found nectaring on flowers during August. Photo credit: Joann Pettinicchio https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/8/22/the-other-milkweed-caterpillar-milkweed-tussock-moth-ieuchaetes-eglei monthly 0.5 2024-10-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1408732753321-W44CK0YIBLUXR2HXJFHU/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The other milkweed caterpillar: Milkweed tussock moth, Euchaetes egle Hairy caterpillars of the milkweed tussock moth resemble “Cousin Itt” as they feed on leaves of milkweed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/8/18/magical-monarchs-in-peril-the-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2014-08-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1408373670835-GCF0O0M8OZV6YRDIUT13/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Magical monarchs in peril: the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Monarchs are a summer delight in the meadows of Maryland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1408372439768-7OA8NU3JEI7REVD7JWQD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Magical monarchs in peril: the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Female monarchs place eggs on the underside of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1408372758129-GJT9EXM680U9937XRKN8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Magical monarchs in peril: the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The fully-grown caterpillar assumes the “J” position just before pupation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1408372998443-XMZVLDTM97TDVSGHLWR5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Magical monarchs in peril: the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Often the monarch caterpillar moves away from the milkweed plant to transform into a beautiful chrysalis from which the adult butterfly later emerges. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/8/7/soggy-death-to-friendly-soldiers-soldier-beetles-ichauliognathus-pennsylvanicusi-and-their-deadly-fungus-ientomophthora-lampyridarumi monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407431919507-ERAS39FOYKZVIB54O1TN/soldier1499.jpg Current Issue - Soggy death to friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, and their deadly fungus, Entomophthora lampyridarum The goldenrod leatherwing, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, is a frequent visitor to goldenrod in late summer and autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407432473940-DCQB8MSOSJER6U26DZT7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Soggy death to friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, and their deadly fungus, Entomophthora lampyridarum After mind-altering fungi take control of their bodies, the soldier beetle’s final act is to move high on a plant, clamp on with their jaws, and spread their wings to provide launching pads for dispersal of fungal spores. Photo credit: Carol Jelich https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407432570335-7FOKBGG70ACB9Y1PNU7Y/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Soggy death to friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, and their deadly fungus, Entomophthora lampyridarum Velvety soldier beetle larvae attack many ground and plant dwelling pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407432748938-F7H5GF8XYADTDLXEOG6W/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Soggy death to friendly soldiers: Soldier beetles, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, and their deadly fungus, Entomophthora lampyridarum Fruiting bodies of Entomophthora give the soldier beetle’s body a furry appearance. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/8/4/parsley-and-dill-beware-black-swallowtail-ipapilio-polyxenesi monthly 0.5 2014-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407161016508-AU1QBNL6HPRV1FEDOQ50/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Parsley and dill beware: Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> A female black swallowtail butterfly lays her eggs on dill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1407161447368-FFEC14ILRJ7NIY6OKOX6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Parsley and dill beware: Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> Tiny yellow, beach ball-like eggs deposited by the female butterfly soon hatch into hungry caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/7/28/chikungunya-virus-in-the-united-states-and-its-vectors-yellow-fever-mosquitoes-iaedes-aegyptii-and-asian-tiger-mosquito-iaedes-albopictusi monthly 0.5 2019-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1406560785746-6XJHQLVDQIRWTCIEYBU1/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Chikungunya virus in the United States and its vectors: Yellow Fever Mosquitoes, <i>Aedes aegypti</i>, and Asian tiger mosquito, <i>Aedes albopictus</i> Asian tigers like this one in my backyard bring hours of discomfort while working outdoors, even in the daytime. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/7/21/midnight-marauders-asiatic-garden-beetles-imaladera-castaneai monthly 0.5 2014-07-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1405952095064-R21L28XDL4W66PEBGUZK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Midnight marauders: Asiatic garden beetles, <i>Maladera castanea</i> Not much was left after Asiatic garden beetles finished eating my sunflowers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1405952346306-ZBM4LNA1IZVGHUXIS66I/skeletonizing1500.jpg Current Issue - Midnight marauders: Asiatic garden beetles, <i>Maladera castanea</i> Japanese beetles remove tissue between veins causing skeletonization. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1405952544816-GHSNPS1RQBN737YFE2GM/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Midnight marauders: Asiatic garden beetles, <i>Maladera castanea</i> Larvae of Japanese beetles and Asiatic garden beetles feed on plant roots and are called white grubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/7/14/mason-wasps-imonobiai-and-ipseudodynerusi monthly 0.5 2014-07-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1405345993625-USUC616ZBSMLRKCEGRMI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mason wasps: <i>Monobia</i> and <i>Pseudodynerus</i> A quick glance could lead one to mistake black and white Monobia for a bald-faced hornet. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/7/7/misery-named-the-japanese-beetle-ipopillia-japonicai monthly 0.5 2014-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1404745055961-U96L7R0OW5DNQ631WH7R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> A horde of Japanese beetles can put a beating on trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1404745525838-833XOSWOI4PUB0O1WNLM/jbtrap1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> Japanese beetle traps catch thousands of beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1404745580537-KOOY1T9LFQ9RU1VBFDVE/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> Japanese beetle grubs like this one thrive on roots of grass. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/6/29/rain-on-a-sunny-day-sharpshooters-ioncometopiai-sp monthly 0.5 2014-06-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1404075848252-E4LA8L1O87FFYW4VP04N/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Rain on a sunny day: Sharpshooters, <i>Oncometopia</i> sp. A brown exoskeleton of the newly molted sharpshooter looks on while Oncometopia plans its next move. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1404075780841-MF70OGEP7SCSB9RAG81R/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Rain on a sunny day: Sharpshooters, <i>Oncometopia</i> sp. The white chalky patch on the side of the sharpshooter contains brochosomes. They will be used to powder the area where the sharpshooter lays her eggs. This powdery substance may help protect the eggs from parasitic wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/6/23/termite-or-ant monthly 0.5 2014-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1403550017076-Z56KYFUS44S3PJ1CNBX2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Termite or Ant? Termite workers will make short work of this wood chip. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1403550859705-GO70AY3GJOEJJMK7NPV5/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Termite or Ant? Outdoors, termites build colonies in decaying logs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1403553516358-D0E0P1209Z1KO5BLOJ46/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Termite or Ant? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/6/16/mallow-munchers-mallow-sawfly-iatomacera-deceptai monthly 0.5 2014-06-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402919964026-4QDECSK6D5IMAWF0X5OP/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, <i>Atomacera decepta</i> Beautiful hibiscuses are important sources of nectar and pollen for many beneficial insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402920181645-IJ5SDQ9BYRV074GXV1FK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, <i>Atomacera decepta</i> Ouch! Small mallow sawfly larvae have big appetites! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402920233971-MWFI40FK39WNV8DLKFLJ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Mallow munchers: Mallow sawfly, <i>Atomacera decepta</i> The female mallow sawfly lays eggs in the leaf tissue. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/6/9/a-case-of-mistaken-identity-crane-flies-family-tipulidae monthly 0.5 2014-06-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402324666284-5LUAG97Y70Z66BGIMS1D/1crane+fly1500.jpg Current Issue - A case of mistaken identity: Crane flies, Family Tipulidae Crane flies often rest in grass or on vegetation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402324862163-TT51XRBWV1A7EZPW25OB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A case of mistaken identity: Crane flies, Family Tipulidae A mosquito this big could really do some damage! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1402324925368-JJAOHWKS46T3L41LUS10/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A case of mistaken identity: Crane flies, Family Tipulidae Crane fly larvae, called leather jackets, are found in rotting wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/6/2/big-black-ants-in-the-home-carpenter-ants-icamponotusi-spp monthly 0.5 2014-06-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1401723889172-FNHLOJ3FWO5P03TCMXPD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Big black ants in the home: Carpenter ants, <i>Camponotus</i> spp. Carpenter ants excavate galleries for pupae and larvae in trees and stumps outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1401724105057-4NIZHNRNLLRJ2FUC8MJ2/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Big black ants in the home: Carpenter ants, <i>Camponotus</i> spp. Field ants are differentiated from carpenter ants by a distinct dent in the center of their thorax. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1401724065213-71ZHNVJBJHUKUKFWRUCA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Big black ants in the home: Carpenter ants, <i>Camponotus</i> spp. Carpenter ants are differentiated from field ants by the smooth contour of their thorax in profile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1401724187812-L6C8PK72PCWEBK0P1Z9Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Big black ants in the home: Carpenter ants, <i>Camponotus</i> spp. Unpainted wet wood may allow carpenter ants to gain entry into a home. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/5/26/there-will-be-blood-mosquitoes-culicidae monthly 0.5 2014-05-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1401112782051-QZEUALMVWJAWPICHJI0U/culexeggs1397.jpg Current Issue - There will be blood! Mosquitoes, Culicidae Hundreds of larvae will hatch from mosquito egg rafts floating on the surface of the water. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/5/19/beware-of-small-pits-antlions-family-myrmeleontidae monthly 0.5 2014-05-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1400510885333-SRZ71ZC6I30YDUEXLQ56/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beware of small pits: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae Wicked jaws of the antlion larva capture victims and suck their blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1400511093255-OLJM3K9ITNLKJN27EOB3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beware of small pits: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae Conical pits spell danger for ants and other small ground-dwelling arthropods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1400511421830-CCXLXAYUIQNZJDUJDH5Z/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Beware of small pits: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae The gorgeous adult antlion will find a mate and return to the sandy soil to deposit eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/5/12/bug-of-the-week-celebrates-ten-years monthly 0.5 2014-05-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399906140560-9VGEJHTCBNXI9M34EBDO/mike-raupp.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! Dr. Mike Raupp is the Bug Guy at the University of Maryland - College Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905372870-Z97FXW04JWIZS6VHT4AZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905471352-070GS9TL48FRSL2SEVA0/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905501339-OSUMHM0O6TEL47TKHJB6/3Jumping+spider.jpg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905549624-WJN8JXN5QOVS69O9MFI1/image-asset.png Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905728724-P6RV6E47YETIU9J773OC/image-asset.png Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399908326661-DIYFV990VXL4ZINZHTSD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399908351315-M4E8134WCY0EY71QZK3K/image-asset.png Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905877632-AND8OFHKC6EB08E6V2BL/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905907737-R4TGHPAXNE955OVQJU4G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399905960715-LHWTTI9HHXREIQB4VIND/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399906013968-IWQ0ZVQAVJNVILZQS1NK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399906098399-XI6VZ6KSL45X1EY1L6Z3/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Bug of the Week celebrates ten years! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/5/5/a-good-deer-food-for-carrion-beetles-ioiceoptoma-noveboracensei monthly 0.5 2014-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399298969493-POF76CPQELCGHBCVMSTZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A good deer: food for carrion beetles, <i>Oiceoptoma noveboracense</i> A carrion beetle continues its important work of recycling dead things. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/4/28/ground-nesting-bees-beware-the-bee-fly-bombyliidae monthly 0.5 2014-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398699879533-YUIS0F9T0NDGW817IXM7/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees, beware the bee fly: Bombyliidae Bee flies are beautiful but deadly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398700137065-LQP5TKGR6G7JSV1CTXYD/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees, beware the bee fly: Bombyliidae In April, solitary bees like this one and the wildflowers they pollinate really are spring beauties. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398700159149-H2JHD7VWKP0S7TTWAVWI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Ground nesting bees, beware the bee fly: Bombyliidae Is this wary plasterer bee on the lookout for a dastardly bee fly? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/4/21/a-trio-of-trouble-just-in-time-for-summer-blacklegged-ticks-iixodesi-spp-american-dog-tick-idermacentor-variabilisi-and-lone-star-tick-iamblyomma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2014-04-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398092246587-9BRPW9BP9PIW6VSZ9NUB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A trio of trouble just in time for summer: Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp.; American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>; and lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> A troublesome trio, clockwise from top: blacklegged tick, lone star tick, and American dog tick. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398095173875-X8QVHUXFBMB07Z3REO9D/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A trio of trouble just in time for summer: Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp.; American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>; and lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> Although they are very small, blacklegged tick nymphs can transmit Lyme disease. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398095269248-RCFQWIZPCJ7HV0N1CPJB/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A trio of trouble just in time for summer: Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp.; American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>; and lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> A bull’s eye rash is one of the characteristic symptoms of Lyme disease. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398095639340-2MIN7ZFM5HXCS9DM1P3G/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A trio of trouble just in time for summer: Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp.; American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>; and lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> Wow, fully engorged ticks get really big! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1398095697034-WNBOE23VFL2KBU9JJBE9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - A trio of trouble just in time for summer: Blacklegged ticks, <i>Ixodes</i> spp.; American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>; and lone star tick, <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> Ticks quest by waiting on blades of grass with legs extended ready to latch onto a passing animal. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/4/14/welcome-mason-bees-iosmiai-spp monthly 0.5 2014-04-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1397492618534-P47OAEZNG2E8OC3RVIPZ/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome mason bees, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1397492743761-LHXFAPQSS8FEBQ1LQJDG/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome mason bees, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Mason bee larvae consume pollen cakes prepared by their mother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1397493089675-N5KN4V0OXKYGPCFKAOUK/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Welcome mason bees, <i>Osmia</i> spp. Noxious bee-mites hitch a ride on the back of a hornfaced mason bee. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/4/7/as-spring-arrives-so-do-eastern-tent-caterpillars-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2014-04-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1396887234164-5MHC2FET9FKUFHFPC3U1/1easttentcat1500.jpg Current Issue - As spring arrives, so do Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1396887433180-U42PTBVQB5KTQLE101GF/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - As spring arrives, so do Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> Forsythia blossoms welcome spring - at last! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1396887532879-08RZY01S94EP9JB0KV05/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - As spring arrives, so do Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum</i> Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped by hungry tent caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/3/31/debris-carrying-lacewing-larvae-chrysopidae monthly 0.5 2014-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1396277513297-3BKC40GCP2SJGHVE10XS/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Debris carrying lacewing larvae, Chrysopidae Look at the ferocious jaws of the lacewing larva protruding from its cloak of debris. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1396279307299-KTAV1JYO4I2DNKESP1TM/LacewingAdult762.jpg Current Issue - Debris carrying lacewing larvae, Chrysopidae Soon lacewing adults will be active at porch lights on warm evenings, a sure sign that spring has arrived. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/3/24/preserve-our-air-from-the-infection-of-dungs-rainbow-dung-beetle-iphanaeus-vindexi monthly 0.5 2014-03-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395669125175-GOH8OHY40QIDU8I0FGYH/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> A gorgeous male rainbow dung beetle bears an amazing horn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395669613611-QIH7TELAPAXKFBU1ITES/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> Large mammals generate large amounts of waste. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395669683263-HXZLM9U1CQZUT9VCP9TY/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Preserve our air from “The Infection of Dungs”: Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex</i> Dung beetle larvae will turn a pile of horse manure into remarkable beetles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/3/17/winter-stoneflies-families-taenioptergidae-and-capniidae monthly 0.5 2014-03-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395060838107-Z0PU9JIZD6H3T9FF7BM8/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families Taenioptergidae and Capniidae Snow and ice don't cool the romance of winter stoneflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395061079288-AW9SML3A9KROMSFTSY0H/NYMPH1500.jpg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families Taenioptergidae and Capniidae Stonefly nymphs search for food and hide among the small stones at the bottom of streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1395061267781-I29C547H8WP4M0RUGT9T/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families Taenioptergidae and Capniidae Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to hunt winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/3/10/if-you-be-my-body-guard-i-will-be-your-pal-iaztecai-ants-and-icecropiai monthly 0.5 2014-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1394454286164-W8J60LG9YE3NKWXV4BAS/cecropia1500.jpg Current Issue - If you be my body guard, I will be your pal: <i>Azteca</i> ants and <i>Cecropia</i> Leaves of the Cecropia are remarkably damage free owing to their Azteca ant bodyguards. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/3/3/polar-vortex-did-it-beat-down-the-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2014-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393876871590-6397ES3WNAL17BC34SCL/1atticstink1500.jpg Current Issue - Polar Vortex: Did it beat-down the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>? Mortality of stink bugs was high in my brother’s unheated garage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393877084236-9BMUZZ5Y48N8YW3H51GX/2BMSBnymphsontomato1500.jpg Current Issue - Polar Vortex: Did it beat-down the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>? Brown marmorated stink bug nymphs suck the juices from an unfortunate gardener’s tomato. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393877229471-0RNC8VJYLV0S9GGURPPU/3hwaapril1500.jpg Current Issue - Polar Vortex: Did it beat-down the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>? Chances are good that hemlock woolly adelgid took a beat-down in cold locations along the Appalachians. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393877381082-IT7WDATWWS3WBD613DMP/4eablarv1500.jpg Current Issue - Polar Vortex: Did it beat-down the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>? Temperatures of –25 to –30 degrees Fahrenheit in Minnesota may have killed emerald ash borer larvae beneath tree bark. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/2/24/tropical-treehoppers-membracidae monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393256966795-YYMR4B4SVK84FFKB6NTQ/1membracismex1500.jpg Current Issue - Tropical treehoppers – Membracidae The beautiful Membracis mexicana is a devoted mother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393257242380-H1DCAKJ87A17MW1VUCX0/2costaricamem1500.jpg Current Issue - Tropical treehoppers – Membracidae High in the forest canopy this beautiful treehopper guards her eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393257346546-AC9YX68YJ60I6MFIFHTX/3antsguardmem1452.jpg Current Issue - Tropical treehoppers – Membracidae Ants often act as body guards for colonies of treehoppers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393257422689-VWC5LBU30XA4OZ3J92RE/4femalememguards1500.jpg Current Issue - Tropical treehoppers – Membracidae This thorn-like treehopper guards her eggs after laying them in a froth-covered mass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1393257591942-H77UMDRBP90MQB7R28CA/5adultsguard1500.jpg Current Issue - Tropical treehoppers – Membracidae Two adult treehoppers share guard duty watching over little treehopper nymphs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/2/17/rainforest-recyclers-tractor-millipedes-polydesmida-and-giant-african-millipedes-iarchispirostreptus-spi monthly 0.5 2014-02-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392652267761-U9XNVVDU5RGNQPE5UMCT/1prettymillipede1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Recyclers: Tractor Millipedes, Polydesmida, and Giant African Millipedes, <i>Archispirostreptus sp.</i> This millipede is as useful as it is pretty, helping recycle decaying organic matter on the forest floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392652739584-981GF1XSTKJ36NW41T3P/2twolegsperseg1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Recyclers: Tractor Millipedes, Polydesmida, and Giant African Millipedes, <i>Archispirostreptus sp.</i> Two pairs of legs on each body segment is a hallmark of the millipede. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392652802095-WAYEHYS5N0V2YKN1YZ5D/3milliball1500.jpg Current Issue - Rainforest Recyclers: Tractor Millipedes, Polydesmida, and Giant African Millipedes, <i>Archispirostreptus sp.</i> Curling into a tight ball is one line of defense of the giant millipede. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/2/10/jungle-raiders-army-ants-ieciton-spi monthly 0.5 2014-02-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392048176939-45UPQDWNEI7IS0JC0AC7/aasoldier2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders: Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.</i> Can these grotesque jaws pinch enough skin to close a wound? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392048797255-NY9H8BJF4LWMGSXBALCE/2aabite1500.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders: Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.</i> You bet they pinch - ouch! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1392049590774-TUDBNB2DWX5U8FCHWP09/aabiv1500.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders: Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.</i> A night time trip to the outhouse can be especially exciting when army ants set up a bivouac inside. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/2/3/zombie-bees-iapis-melliferai-and-their-tormentors-the-humpbacked-fly-iapocephalus-borealisi monthly 0.5 2014-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1391443494706-4RT1LWUIO0G4FXBA5HKP/honeybee1500.jpg Current Issue - Zombie bees, <i>Apis mellifera</i>, and their tormentor the humpbacked fly, <i>Apocephalus borealis</i> The honey bee is one of the most important pollinators we have, responsible for about one out of every 3 bites of food we eat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1391443816997-XEO9PA3UPIZ0UJ0EV9RY/humpbackedfly_JD_800.jpg Current Issue - Zombie bees, <i>Apis mellifera</i>, and their tormentor the humpbacked fly, <i>Apocephalus borealis</i> Phorid flies like this one share the humpbacked appearance found in Apocephalus. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/1/27/rain-on-a-sunny-day-lanternflies-fulgoridae monthly 0.5 2014-01-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1390842246080-9E6ZO90FLS5ZO5FOOXT1/Lanternfly+bark_1500.jpg Current Issue - Rain on a sunny day: Lanternflies, Fulgoridae Click here to see the lantern reveal the flash coloration of its hindwings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1390845829691-EHSL8GAVRZOW8U8EDS3J/alligator+lanternfly_1500.jpg Current Issue - Rain on a sunny day: Lanternflies, Fulgoridae The grotesque adornment on the head of the alligator lanternfly might give small birds nightmares. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/1/20/nocturnal-hunters-mexican-redrump-tarantula-ibrachypelma-vagansi monthly 0.5 2014-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1390229292134-P344IB9RTJJQHTDJXGVW/tarantula_1500.jpg Current Issue - Nocturnal hunters: Mexican redrump tarantula, <i>Brachypelma vagans</i> This large female tarantula was living in a burrow beneath a stone. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/1/12/malachites-on-the-hilltop-isiproeta-stelenesi monthly 0.5 2014-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1389539796532-4TR6UJBFYCZ77EO5CV9I/malachiterest2_1500.jpg Current Issue - Malachites on the hilltop - <i>Siproeta stelenes</i> A beautiful Malachite butterfly rests in the vegetation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2014/1/6/blue-lightning-in-the-rainforest-blue-imorpho-morpho-menelausi monthly 0.5 2020-04-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1389019229276-XKG8FSYBYBEOP51DN7TA/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Blue lightning in the rainforest – Blue Morpho, Morpho menelaus Bold scary eyespots adorn the lower surface of the Morpho’s wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1389021169543-HXR5Y36GO433C9AKJ3Z6/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Blue lightning in the rainforest – Blue Morpho, Morpho menelaus Brightly colored Morpho caterpillars bear tufts of long hairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1389021616376-EN665YD064D79K5JQW4K/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Blue lightning in the rainforest – Blue Morpho, Morpho menelaus Within chrysalises, Morpho caterpillars transform into beautiful adults. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/12/13/chilly-winter-days-cant-stop-the-fall-cankerworm-ialsophila-pometariai monthly 0.5 2013-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386960287242-WEB8I66ZSX4IB510OCBW/1fallcankerwormale1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilly winter days can’t stop the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> The fall cankerworm male is a good flyer and follows a scent trail to find his mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386960516191-NXMHEL0RKZBCVEILF4AC/2cankerwormfemale1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilly winter days can’t stop the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> The bizarre female fall cankerworm lacks functional wings and mouthparts and does fly or eat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386960571902-3MAYUC4L7PIKIJ6XN8DG/3fcankeggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilly winter days can’t stop the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Fall cankerworms deposit eggs in the late autumn and early winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386960623805-BB6VGLWDYRJQAA3QRXZD/4fallcankergreenbrown1500.jpg Current Issue - Chilly winter days can’t stop the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Fall cankerworm caterpillars come in two color morphs, light green and dark brown. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/12/9/in-a-warming-world-here-comes-the-red-imported-fire-ant-isolenopsis-invicatai monthly 0.5 2013-12-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386600605156-JD80YXNMHDTKSWVY3KY1/Fireantrange_shp.jpg Current Issue - In a warming world, here comes the red imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> The range of fire ants in the U.S. is predicted to spread. (Image from USDA – ARS) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386601001478-D38ZZ8OQI4CTWB4VE7GF/fireantstingknucle1235.jpg Current Issue - In a warming world, here comes the red imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> One day after being stung, a small itchy welt appeared on my finger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1386601069173-YSG7RKJWS8XB6D3DKCM9/fireantknee1500.jpg Current Issue - In a warming world, here comes the red imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> Three days after a fire ant attack my leg was still red and itchy. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/11/25/boxelder-bungalow-boxelder-bugs-iboisea-trivittatusi monthly 0.5 2013-11-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1385396912906-OAHA1ZVTD6DYVF6S9S97/1boxelder1500.jpg Current Issue - Boxelder bungalow: Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Hundreds of boxelder bugs bask in the sun on the side of the boxelder bungalow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1385391432957-137PP16FT8GM313SBIST/3boxelderbugalow1500.jpg Current Issue - Boxelder bungalow: Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Maples, boxelders, and ashes surrounding this house produced a fine crop of seeds to feed thousands of boxelder bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1385391503589-RD8UR91KGEEQWD2VN7XJ/2boxeldernymph943.jpg Current Issue - Boxelder bungalow: Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Wing buds on the sides of boxelder bug nymphs elongate with each molt. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/11/18/the-troubadour-downstairs-fall-field-cricket-igryllus-pennsylvanicusi monthly 0.5 2013-11-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384789985226-MDQVHIW3JNMS5CV8X4P2/1cricket1464.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs – fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> This delightful troubadour has been singing up a storm in the basement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384790910073-WJ1CO8O17XNXL7YHCPWQ/2cricketeggs1000.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs – fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> Cricket eggs develop in the soil after the female makes a deposit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384791112868-7C9G3SO6EH2ZYH4V8V2Q/3filescrapercricket1500.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs – fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> When the scraper on one wing passes over the ridge-like veins on the other wing, it creates vibrations and produces the cricket’s chirp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384797777211-8T9S56WSULP6Q27ZAQXV/femalecricket297.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs – fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> This gal contemplates the message in a suitor’s song. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384797853095-XQJ34FSM3JKZ14RPOQLD/malecricket575.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs – fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus</i> Wings up, a male cricket prepares to give the current temperature outdoors. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/11/11/window-wasps-the-grass-carrying-wasps-iisodontiai-spp monthly 0.5 2014-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384181570095-45PUE1RVLXBT1A25SREN/1grass-carryingpupae1400.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: The grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Cocoons of grass-carrying wasp line the tracks of my storm window where they will ride out the winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384182027563-P49VLJX2U1XD6NF6LHQD/2grasscarryinglarva1500.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: The grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Within a papery cocoon, a larva transforms into pupa after consuming crickets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1384182099518-7URBXITO3WSIVTDNOEZI/3snowytreecricket1374.jpg Current Issue - Window wasps: The grass-carrying wasps, <i>Isodontia</i> spp. Tree crickets like this one may fall victim to the grass-carrying wasp.   https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/11/1/ladybug-ladybug-fly-away-home-the-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-iharmonia-axyridisi monthly 0.5 2013-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1383319013599-BJ974PPQSO8C08IV0P6Z/multicoloredasian930adj.jpg Current Issue - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Multicolored Asian Lady Beetles are sometimes bright red.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1383319236774-5O51UMYXUG0IGH7WC5B3/harmlarvs807adj.jpg Current Issue - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Harmonia larvae look like tiny alligators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1383319310629-LU8WXY09MALECQH9G5VX/harmoniaeggsbark1000adj.jpg Current Issue - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> During her lifetime, a single female lady beetle may lay hundreds of eggs.   https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/10/25/bugs-in-costume-milkweed-leaf-beetle-ilabidomera-clivicollisi-milkweed-tiger-moth-ieuchaetes-eglei-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2021-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1382721077080-UNO73ELOCY6L9069NQ89/3milkweedleafbeetle911.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Monarch Butterfly, Milkweed Leaf Beetle, Milkweed Bug, and Milkweed Tiger Moth After a hearty meal of milkweed leaves, this milkweed leaf beetle is ready to lay some eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1382721645103-C2AQ305XFU8QCUAXV3YC/5milkweedtiger_1000.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black: Monarch Butterfly, Milkweed Leaf Beetle, Milkweed Bug, and Milkweed Tiger Moth Caterpillars of the milkweed tiger moth resemble furry dust mops as they wander about the plant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/10/21/katydid-the-curve-tailed-bush-katydid-iscudderia-curvicaudai monthly 0.5 2013-10-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1382468303308-5EBN3HX8NZ2N5O7QBEB0/katydid1500.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda</i> The wings of this male bush katydid have veins like a leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1382369793493-YSLJGN6ORHQQ4Z4FV9JI/katyface1500.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda</i> Small dark openings on the front legs of this little beauty are the “ears” of the katydid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1382369889819-F546DJ3ED32BAQ7F7IXI/katyeggs1500.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda</i> Eggs of katydids are often deposited on small branches of trees and shrubs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/10/10/death-of-a-stink-bug-part-4-they-eat-dead-things-the-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-becomes-a-meal-for-the-european-paper-wasp-ipolistes-dominulusi monthly 0.5 2013-10-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1381425873467-8CKQ1Y24THI1JP92AOZ1/polistesguard_1000.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 4: They eat dead things - the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, becomes a meal for the European paper wasp, <i>Polistes dominulus</i> A European paper wasp guard keeps a watchful eye at the entrance to the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1381505645170-ODLV0XVEARLT0ZMEYO0I/europeannest_820.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 4: They eat dead things - the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, becomes a meal for the European paper wasp, <i>Polistes dominulus</i> A paper wasp nest in a shrub can be quite a surprise to the unwary gardener. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1381505713800-05WWBC2QR6A5V7UG9RHE/polistesflowerpot_850.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 4: They eat dead things - the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, becomes a meal for the European paper wasp, <i>Polistes dominulus</i> The hollow log beneath this flower pot offered a perfect spot for the nest of one paper wasp queen with a flair for the unusual. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/10/4/death-of-a-stink-bug-part-3-homegrown-hospitality-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-halyomorpha-halys-meets-the-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-iargiope-aurantia monthly 0.5 2013-10-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1380906675868-62Y2SC0F09AX7MUCF3YO/Blk-yel+garden+spider_1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 3: Homegrown hospitality - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia Bumping into this beauty could give you quite a surprise.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1380912826005-O1DNLEXN3MZXCFJFTV7M/stabilimentum_1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 3: Homegrown hospitality - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia A stabilimentum of heavy silk adorns the center of this web.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1380912927155-2VEWET0PEKH6MW5N05YY/Spider+egg+sac_1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 3: Homegrown hospitality - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia How many spiderlings will emerge from an egg case the size of a Ping-Pong ball? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/9/30/death-of-a-stink-bug-part-2-bug-vs-bug-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-meets-the-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi monthly 0.5 2021-07-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1380549847262-BSRPBETYG2UUXPCNRK7A/wheelbugwheel_1925.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 2: Bug vs. Bug - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> Only Mother Nature and the wheel bug know the function of the wheel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1380550207903-3QB9KSVNGMBHC7T4HJ0X/wheelbugnymphs_2000.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 2: Bug vs. Bug - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> Gorgeous wheel bug nymphs cluster near eggs from which they hatched before venturing off to find prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/9/20/death-of-a-stink-bug-part-1-a-curious-reunion-between-the-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihaylomorpha-halysi-and-the-chinese-praying-mantis-itenodera-sinensisi monthly 0.5 2022-02-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379706021123-LXABQM4MCU9TO7QNKTNQ/chinesemantid1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 1: A curious reunion between the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Haylomorpha halys, and the Chinese Praying Mantis, Tenodera sinensis Come any closer and you'll get a taste of these spines! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379703357598-HHQ3INMW49CIY52QEPV4/ootheca_aj1500.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 1: A curious reunion between the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Haylomorpha halys, and the Chinese Praying Mantis, Tenodera sinensis Stink bug protein is turned into mantis eggs inside an ootheca that endures winter's chill. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379703709419-1NST8XXDMARBS36LTVSR/savetheleg_adj.jpg Current Issue - Death of a stink bug, Part 1: A curious reunion between the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Haylomorpha halys, and the Chinese Praying Mantis, Tenodera sinensis The European praying mantis also enjoys a good meal of stink bug. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/9/13/the-gathering-storm-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2019-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379089722623-IUDMDLB19FU8YAJS5GC5/1stinkassault1000.jpg Current Issue - The gathering storm: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys Stink bugs check out a shutter as a potential winter refuge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379091195871-ZYR1AIZZRDKY9T64HDR5/2stinkbugbark1000.jpg Current Issue - The gathering storm: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys Bark feeding is a strange behavior brown marmorated stink bugs employ in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1379092429415-Y9W8PEALPR2L2BUCD25I/3paper2_1500.jpg Current Issue - The gathering storm: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys Sweet sap exuding from stink bug wounds may attract stinging insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/9/9/silkmoth-season-part-2-a-royal-welcome-royal-walnut-moth-icitheronia-regalisi monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378735011082-G71FKOQGVXR8HGEQAPUV/1hhdcat_1500.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis Adorned with horns and almost six inches in length, the Hickory Horned Devil is harmless unless you are a hickory tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378735689676-6DMORNRKYY2HZD8JYQTD/2royalpup_1500.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis This is the largest pupa I've ever seen! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378735877399-NXP4P27E178PU8WU07T7/5royalcouple_2000.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis Female (above) and male (below) Royal Walnut Moths make a regal couple indeed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378736183216-ML6ZGOLFRFMEJB2HRJFO/3royalchamber_1316.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis From her royal chamber, the female Royal Walnut Moth releases her pheromone to attract a mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378736265074-LUG4R55CHTPPAAUU718T/4royaleggs_1444.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis Leaves of walnut and hickory are favored sites for Royal Walnut Moths to lay eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1378736345469-62CUCU5HYBA0OQIU9FG5/5hickorydevilyoung_962.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 2: A royal welcome – Royal Walnut Moth, Citheronia regalis Horns of the recently hatched Hickory Horned Devil are almost as long as its body. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/8/30/silkmoth-season-part-1-imperial-moth-ieacles-imperialisi monthly 0.5 2013-08-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377880189531-TWP1NXETRWK7YE96VWK6/1imperialcat2_2000.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 1: Imperial Moth, <i>Eacles imperialis</i> Fully the length of a pointer finger, an Imperial moth caterpillar is one of the largest larvae to be found. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377881041778-WT3RGXXU0V9IEU93WC5P/2imperialadult1700.jpg Current Issue - Silkmoth Season, Part 1: Imperial Moth, <i>Eacles imperialis</i> Gorgeous Imperial moths can sometimes be spotted on tree trunks, where they await their mate.  https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/8/26/outrage-for-oaks-orangestriped-oakworm-ianisota-senatoriai monthly 0.5 2013-10-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377531223248-EAWVNC8FK3NJ7TXXJ92W/1orangestriped+oakworm.jpg Current Issue - Outrage for oaks – Orangestriped Oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i> Large oakworm caterpillars devour all but the toughest leaf veins.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377531574816-8I8XSX2ODWFWQBH41JT6/2oakwormdefoliation.jpg Current Issue - Outrage for oaks – Orangestriped Oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i> An orangestriped oakworm attack left this poor pin oak naked.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377531690483-F832OMXB5H7I2V1H95PC/3oakwormfrass.jpg Current Issue - Outrage for oaks – Orangestriped Oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i> Thousands of frass pellets litter the ground beneath trees infested with oakworms.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1377532262809-VK97YEBJZ28718GQS8IT/5oakwormmoth.jpg Current Issue - Outrage for oaks – Orangestriped Oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i> The handsome adult orangestriped oakworm is a moth covered in fur-like scales. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1381258176327-FA1GALKUF0FIURP1UB5Z/5oakwormparahole.jpg Current Issue - Outrage for oaks – Orangestriped Oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i>  A ragged exit hole marks the spot where a parasitoid chewed its way out of this caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/8/19/world-wide-webworm-fall-webworm-ihyphantria-cuneai monthly 0.5 2013-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1376924913541-TLHCGZEFFYJG3UM04IXT/1fwwfirst1500.jpg Current Issue - World-wide webworm: Fall Webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> Before web construction begins, newly hatched fall webworm caterpillars marshal on the underside of a leaf.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1376926034430-70PECCRCEW1JZNYESSAE/fallwwtreetops1500.jpg Current Issue - World-wide webworm: Fall Webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> Webs of fall webworms engulf entire treetops in many locations this year.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1376926754439-35Z86KQ6XZC2587UWUHS/fwwpara1000.jpg Current Issue - World-wide webworm: Fall Webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> Black parasitic wasp pupae cling to their doomed fall webworm host. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/8/12/crickets-beware-steel-blue-cricket-hunter-ichlorion-aerariumi monthly 0.5 2013-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1376317672884-20NNMNWFTUFNU4W43VNA/1steelblueingrass1861.jpg Current Issue - Crickets beware – Steel-blue cricket hunter, <i>Chlorion aerarium</i> Shortly after wading through the grass, this steel-blue cricket hunter disappeared down a cicada killer hole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1376509376587-VRR2GUBZHNF2TBWZAMGN/2steelbluewithcricket1100.jpg Current Issue - Crickets beware – Steel-blue cricket hunter, <i>Chlorion aerarium</i> With a cricket securely tucked beneath, this cricket hunter scaled my brick siding, apparently to gain altitude for flight to her nesting site.   https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/8/5/swallowtail-soiree-eastern-tiger-swallowtail-ipapilio-glaucusi monthly 0.5 2013-08-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375707106694-9UKSOFIRBMTXSBR14361/1tigerdarkeastern1500.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree – Eastern tiger swallowtail, <i>Papilio glaucus</i> Black tiger swallowtails mimic the distasteful pipevine swallowtail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375707493416-O7V2W3MHBVYCBOZ9Y49K/2tigerearly1294.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree – Eastern tiger swallowtail, <i>Papilio glaucus</i> Young swallowtail larvae cleverly mimic bird droppings to avoid becoming someone’s dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375707788175-VCYJ99VW7WHX8Q2NLQ05/3tiger+eyes_1000.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree – Eastern tiger swallowtail, <i>Papilio glaucus</i> Large creepy eyespots of older swallowtail caterpillars frighten would-be predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/7/29/move-over-stink-bugs-here-comes-the-kudzu-bug-imegacopta-cribrariai monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375106080069-Y6X7A1DYWI7D2SCRXOKM/1kudzuad1976.jpg Current Issue - Move over stink bugs, here comes the kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria Adult kudzu bugs are small, only about ¼ of an inch in length. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375106795488-DGD6DZMR69TVXS8YZVYZ/2kudzulandscape1352.jpg Current Issue - Move over stink bugs, here comes the kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria Kudzu engulfs surrounding trees and shrubs in landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375107508211-MM8QQ15EZVULA4JCXXGF/3kudzunymph1836.jpg Current Issue - Move over stink bugs, here comes the kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria Nymphs of kudzu bugs are almost as hairy as the vines of kudzu on which they feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/7/16/its-biting-time-mosquitoes-iculicidaei monthly 0.5 2019-06-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374002317033-OF4J79OQM6WD9MFXV574/1asianfeed+copy.jpg Current Issue - It's biting time: Mosquitoes, <i>Culicidae</i> This Asian Tiger better pull out before it explodes! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374003625983-XLBB4E6YVAZT6C4M8IIT/2culexeggs.jpg Current Issue - It's biting time: Mosquitoes, <i>Culicidae</i> Scores of larvae will soon hatch from egg rafts floating in a water bucket. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374003801442-THICL0MQRW7OTJE2NM87/3mosqbreeders.jpg Current Issue - It's biting time: Mosquitoes, <i>Culicidae</i> Wheelbarrows and pails can breed hundreds of mosquito larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/7/15/bumble-bees-beware-of-ambush-bugs-iphymatai-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373982271177-55S1TB3KFJJEZNYXP2W0/ambushbug1692_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Bumble Bees - Beware of Ambush Bugs, <i>Phymata</i> spp.  Greatly enlarged forelegs enable the ambush bug to snare its victim like a catcher snaring a wild pitch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373900997083-D7Z9ID91X0VENOFAHSNO/2ambush_wasp.jpg Current Issue - Bumble Bees - Beware of Ambush Bugs, <i>Phymata</i> spp. A yellow and brown ambush bug gives a small wasp a perfidious kiss. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/7/8/be-careful-with-bumble-bees-ibombusi-spp monthly 0.5 2020-07-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373298944298-3VP2MLB08IJV1HYUJLK1/1bumblebee_pollen_bb2.jpg Current Issue - Be careful with bumble bees, Bombus spp. Gathering pollen is the name of the game for this hairy lady. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373299384242-F8JALJ0C178UY01UKWIC/bumblebeenest233.jpg Current Issue - Be careful with bumble bees, Bombus spp. Bumble bees sometimes build nests in man-made structures like wall voids. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/7/3/vipers-in-the-spicebush-spicebush-swallowtail-ipapilio-troilusi monthly 0.5 2020-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372854425606-G9WFL3CAR7TNEA2YUKFI/1spicebushcat_eyespots.jpg Current Issue - Vipers in the spicebush: Spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus Large snake-like eyespots on the body might give a hungry bird second thoughts about attacking this caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372854602757-PBFK8IQ7VKCW5CNY9I3D/2spicebushleaf2000.jpg Current Issue - Vipers in the spicebush: Spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus Tiny bite marks and a folded leaf are clues that a caterpillar hides inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372854781654-79X7F3REUPQQJTTWKD36/3spicebushcat_young.jpg Current Issue - Vipers in the spicebush: Spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus Young spicebush caterpillars are nondescript and may be mistaken for bird droppings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372854954674-LMSMQH1OZPE5Q9AN64ZK/4spicebushcat_headview.jpg Current Issue - Vipers in the spicebush: Spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus When viewed head-on, the spicebush caterpillar resembles a small serpent. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372855059376-SXGSBUIQCYAYR72SCCS5/5SpicebushButterfly.jpg Current Issue - Vipers in the spicebush: Spicebush swallowtail, Papilio troilus The beautiful spicebush butterfly is thought to mimic the distasteful pipevine swallowtail. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/25/adieu-brood-ii-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372169193311-RWLCTQSDZJ0A73JLCFP8/1cicadaniceshot.jpg Current Issue - Adieu Brood II: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. So long Brood II https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372169712963-TW8ZMNOKWOSC3URHASKY/2exuviae.jpg Current Issue - Adieu Brood II: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Up and down the east coast billions of cicadas will return nutrients to the trees from which they fed for 17 years. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/17/std-in-cicada-land-imagicicadai-and-imassospora-cicadinai monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371656497839-HV3MNWNM40XCFRW24I9P/1MASSOSPORA_adj.jpg Current Issue - STD in cicada land, <i>Magicicada</i> and <i>Massospora cicadina</i> Massospora turns the cicada into a fungus garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371659575229-KOTTEC2MVSLHLHK7TJQ0/2MASSOSPORA2_adj.jpg Current Issue - STD in cicada land, <i>Magicicada</i> and <i>Massospora cicadina</i> Hollow abdomens missing abdominal segments are hallmarks of the fungal infection. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/10/egg-laying-in-the-treetops-imagicicadai-brood-ii monthly 0.5 2013-08-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371660697091-444EEUV4936XCR2AVQXT/1_damage1000.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying in the treetops: <i>Magicicada</i>, Brood II Each slit marks the spot where a cicada dug into a tender branch to lay her eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371660784143-CIEUOODCPOGXIXM26Q58/2eggs2000.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying in the treetops: <i>Magicicada</i>, Brood II Eggs develop in the branch for more than a month before hatching. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371660847020-PDWU9YL5CFNLUMKOJXST/tinynymphs800.jpg Current Issue - Egg-laying in the treetops: <i>Magicicada</i>, Brood II After dropping to earth, tiny cicada nymphs burrow underground and attach to the roots of plants to feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/4/the-chorus-in-the-treetop-imagicicadai-spp-brood-ii monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371664687070-KLCBT6F50E58VTLTMOHE/mating2000.jpg Current Issue - The chorus in the treetop - <i>Magicicada</i> spp., Brood II Mating cicadas often stay coupled for an hour or more. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/4/brood-ii-up-in-maryland-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371667727440-W2A9G5H4QGJG5Z8XUJ0Z/2eggs2000.jpg Current Issue - Brood II up in Maryland, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Female cicadas lay eggs in "nests," each of which can contain 20 - 30 eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371667812761-85OIP79ZDIIUN21TAVOO/damagedtree800.jpg Current Issue - Brood II up in Maryland, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Young trees may sustain significant injury from egg-laying female cicadas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371667829260-3FBO3L7YEG1IFFBLC89T/netting800.jpg Current Issue - Brood II up in Maryland, <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Netting can greatly reduce injury to small trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/3/where-is-brood-ii-and-when-will-we-see-it-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371669424628-8YI7ZDKLYQI87NXT5OKX/nymphs_1000.jpg Current Issue - Where is Brood II and when will we see it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. In May, cicada nymphs will appear by the handful in areas treated to Brood II. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371669531004-MGN4RYRSVICUIHB66XC5/newadult800.jpg Current Issue - Where is Brood II and when will we see it? <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Newly molted cicadas are spectacularly beautiful but extremely vulnerable to predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/3/hail-brood-ii-imagicicadai-spp-1 monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371670898878-ZH6SJ9DHWHYAA9PIFGB3/nymphs_1000.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. In May, cicada nymphs will appear by the handful in areas treated to Brood II. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671268111-V5UAXZAIOW6ZFB0T7GUW/molting_1000.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. One of the most precarious acts for the cicada is shedding the exoskeleton it wore as a nymph. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671304962-RK6XMI482VNOT5S9UD20/blueyedcicada800.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Be on the look out for the rare blue-eyed cicada. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671329078-89PGQHSDQ1GW8X6KXIRU/tymbal_800.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Males vibrate the tymbal to produce a variety of calls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671346887-A93M83L8QEY4UNRM1A3F/cicadas_mating800.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. A female (left) and male (right) enjoy a moment of rapture among the azalea blossoms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671436707-I1OAYFY3W3FSSC4PQA4I/2eggs2000.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Small fruit trees can be damaged when females lay eggs in tender branches. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371671455941-K18VUJVDGDY4HPXZQPRI/cicada_exit+holes_853.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II – <i>Magicicada</i> spp. With more than 30 visible exit holes per square foot, one can see how there could be almost 1 billion cicadas per square mile. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/3/hail-brood-ii-imagicicadai-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371672424297-ZGW6OFTI54G2098UMVQ7/nymphs_1000.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. In May, cicada nymphs will appear by the handful in areas being treated to Brood II. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371672507333-FCUQCZ5AEQU53GSZMID5/molting_1000.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. One of the most precarious acts for the cicada is shedding the exoskeleton it wore as a nymph. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1371672526223-H84QENNX1UHPPGN8UC80/tymbal_800.jpg Current Issue - Hail Brood II: <i>Magicicada</i> spp. Males vibrate the tymbal to produce a variety of calls. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/4/2/just-cant-wait-eastern-tent-caterpillars-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372172934608-PGDB00J8G7WBFVGQCXZT/forsyth800.jpg Current Issue - Just can't wait: Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Forsythia blooms are a harbinger of both spring and the appearance of eastern tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372173927459-WXX99KQURKAIUB88MV0E/TentCat800.jpg Current Issue - Just can't wait: Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372173973100-AV2SMV9ET8LTRS89Y5ZD/ETC+infested+tree800.jpg Current Issue - Just can't wait: Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Small, and sometimes even large trees, may be stripped bare by hungry tent caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/4/2/winter-stoneflies-families-itaenioptergidaei-and-icapniidaei monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372175066568-GYWYCASZGKPKCCU3NGU6/winteradults800.jpg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families <i>Taenioptergidae</i> and <i>Capniidae<i> Snow and ice don't cool the romance of winter stoneflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372175254937-CUV8MJKRKWJQUADML8T6/NYMPH800.jpg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families <i>Taenioptergidae</i> and <i>Capniidae<i> Stonefly nymphs search for food and hide among the small stones at the bottom of streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372175274104-LXR6R0NC22J1QBVCJDZT/winterbridge800.jpg Current Issue - Winter stoneflies: Families <i>Taenioptergidae</i> and <i>Capniidae<i> Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to hunt winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/4/2/chilean-chinchemolles-the-elegant-phasmatid-iagathemera-elegansi monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372178871098-EPT543R7B53GRN94YAC6/VulcanVillarica_1000+copy.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles - The elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans<i> The chinchemolle lives on the slopes of the Villarrica vulcano in Chile. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372179051443-WS2SIZ0PJPRAFRSHB40Y/Chincemolle_female_800.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles - The elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans<i> A beautiful female phasmatid grazes on herbaceous plants near a stream. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372179073450-XAIO6PEEFH7J6P6XRVSQ/Chincemolle_male_800.jpg Current Issue - Chilean Chinchemolles - The elegant phasmatid, <i>Agathemera elegans<i> This male chinchemolle makes no attempt to hide as he moves across the rocky shore. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/31/cathedral-termites-inasutitermes-triodiaei monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372187069315-2BIV3LW8H66Z3LG8MA2C/cathedralmound1000.jpg Current Issue - Cathedral Termites, <i>Nasutitermes triodiae<i> Mounds of Cathedral termites dominate the landscape in the arid Northwest Territory. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372187154920-WGLDCXKWPKA68YY7XALK/australiantermitetrails1000.jpg Current Issue - Cathedral Termites, <i>Nasutitermes triodiae<i> Light colored mud tubes in the grass mark the foraging routes of termites as they search for food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372187338320-LLYNLMC8K7ONNNPSS42H/nasutecathedral855.jpg Current Issue - Cathedral Termites, <i>Nasutitermes triodiae<i> The termite soldier squirts defensive chemicals at enemies through the elongated snout on its head. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/31/green-tree-ants-ioecophylla-smaragdinai monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372190914367-B1DEGPIV688EBSTYL5TS/greentreeantnest800.jpg Current Issue - Green Tree Ants: <i>Oecophylla smaragdina<i> A single colony of green tree ants may consist of several smaller nests distributed in several trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372188583617-JKKYDOO1S2GY63EH7QTV/greentreeant800.jpg Current Issue - Green Tree Ants: <i>Oecophylla smaragdina<i> With jaws widespread, a major worker prepares to defend the colony. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372188634237-0SINLSYTA845JZ5WV4V0/lizardisalnd900.jpg Current Issue - Green Tree Ants: <i>Oecophylla smaragdina<i> Students and faculty enjoy some shade on the deck of the barracks on Lizard Island. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/29/sticks-and-jewels-matchstick-grasshoppers-ieumastacidaei-and-green-jewel-bugs-ilampromicra-senatori monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263240291-KLBFD9MZGVOUXM1RRN24/matchstick1500.jpg Current Issue - Sticks and Jewels: Matchstick grasshoppers, <i>Eumastacidae</i>, and green jewel bugs, <i>Lampromicra senator<i> A motionless matchstick grasshopper does its best to pretend it is part of a plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263313127-XVJUDWS2GYIBVJR7VDDP/jewelbugs_1000.jpg Current Issue - Sticks and Jewels: Matchstick grasshoppers, <i>Eumastacidae</i>, and green jewel bugs, <i>Lampromicra senator<i> Clusters of gorgeous jewel bugs gather on trees at Katherine Gorge in Australia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263399348-EMXSF18O1LT3LTB248NA/Kakadu+group_1000.jpg Current Issue - Sticks and Jewels: Matchstick grasshoppers, <i>Eumastacidae</i>, and green jewel bugs, <i>Lampromicra senator<i> Days in the outback can drive students and faculty a bit crazy. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/29/orchid-beetles-down-under-idendrobiumi-beetle-istethopachys-formosai monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263667014-9970TR4IW56CETLGZYDQ/dendrobium1000.jpg Current Issue - Orchid beetles down under: <i>Dendrobium</i> beetle, <i>Stethopachys formosa<i> Orange and black coloration warn would-be predators that this beetle may be a nasty-meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263717646-JJV3JF3AIWWML3E0MJW3/orchid1500.jpg Current Issue - Orchid beetles down under: <i>Dendrobium</i> beetle, <i>Stethopachys formosa<i> High atop Cook's Look beautiful blossoms, leaves, and stems of wild orchids serve as food for this leaf beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263747322-L06C685DHKRWA10O9EY4/dendropupalcase1000.jpg Current Issue - Orchid beetles down under: <i>Dendrobium</i> beetle, <i>Stethopachys formosa<i> Larvae of the Dendrobium beetle secrete strands of white waxy material to sculpt a fluffy pupal chamber. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372263845326-22IZN26PEIPVSNKHXD7M/students1500.jpg Current Issue - Orchid beetles down under: <i>Dendrobium</i> beetle, <i>Stethopachys formosa<i> Maryland students show their might atop Cook's Look, off the coast of Australia. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/29/bugs-in-love-lovebugs-and-kissing-bugs monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364589961398-QZIMSYSRN2XULBM50JC2/2%3A11%3A13+1st.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs This pair of unicorn beetles doesn't mind a public display of affection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364590166900-XKI8HUG38SU6D27ETILJ/2%3A11%3A13+2nd.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs A dinner date hits the spot for these two wheel bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364590284066-LAXRBNYK1668IWFMVI2T/2%3A11%3A13+3rd.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs First dates can even be awkward for milkweed longhorned beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364590391749-X9JW4DH8YPX7Y7PZLTV0/2%3A11%3A13+4th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs Seventeen years underground might make you as shy as these periodical cicadas appear to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364590587873-BFHGHUJCDMV9WVF597GV/2%3A11%3A13+5th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs Lovebugs and other bibionid flies like this one commonly feed on nectar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364590737385-608DPGF81V05A7QPD0VH/2%3A11%3A13+6th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: Lovebugs and Kissing bugs Kissing bugs get their name by sucking blood from people's lips. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/4/stingless-bees-in-belize-tribe-imeliponinii monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360029946918-UYUEFMJIMT8COKY7IZKG/2%3A4%3A13+.jpg Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, <i>Meliponini<i> Foraging workers visit beautiful flower blossoms to collect nectar and pollen for the hive. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/4/heres-looking-at-you-owl-butterflies-icaligo-spi monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372273711702-0ARCD27GONE6Y7KNREAU/owl_800.jpg Current Issue - Here's looking at you - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> A scary spot adorns the wing of an owl butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372273796874-M933NDNR50RZ3SD215JE/owlcats_800.jpg Current Issue - Here's looking at you - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> Orlando wrangles a handful of gorgeous owl caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372273819809-92H8MFXDXN2YCHYJNEEO/owlchrys_800.jpg Current Issue - Here's looking at you - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> Dead leaf or reptile head? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/3/passionate-about-passion-fruit-zebra-longwing-butterflies-iheliconius-charitoniusi monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372782686833-SY10PVJPSQRKRB9SZWZ2/Passionflower1000.jpg Current Issue - Passionate about passion fruit - Zebra longwing butterflies, <i>Heliconius charitonius<i> Passion vines sport magnificent blossoms and their leaves are food for the caterpillars of the zebra butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372782818422-KKDSV258V92M6HTF6QMT/longwingpollen_lrg.jpg Current Issue - Passionate about passion fruit - Zebra longwing butterflies, <i>Heliconius charitonius<i> Longwing butterflies collect pollen on their proboscis and extract nutritious amino acids from the grains. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372782860117-JS25EHBR7GWQJI9TGPZN/passifloraeggs750.jpg Current Issue - Passionate about passion fruit - Zebra longwing butterflies, <i>Heliconius charitonius<i> Many species of passion vines produce egg-like structures to trick Heliconius butterflies into not laying eggs on their leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/1/size-does-matter-twostriped-walkingstick-ianisomorpha-buprestoidesi monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372784022586-G4C1FS4TEADYHAMMLPND/walkingstick1000.jpg Current Issue - Size does matter: Twostriped walkingstick, <i>Anisomorpha buprestoides<i> The female walkingstick dwarfs the male riding on her back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/1/from-her-lofty-perch-a-snow-scorpionfly-surveys-a-wintry-landscape monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372785004105-WMYQF9Y4E4W7VY9M4ALM/snowscorp_1000.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.<i> From her lofty perch, a snow scorpionfly surveys a wintry landscape. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372785172319-9PFQR9EDLP08ZQDZ3X5H/snowscorpmating_1000.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.<i> Neither snow nor ice can cool the romance between male and female scorpionflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/tis-the-season-for-the-whitefly-the-silverleaf-whitefly-bermisia-tabaci-aka-bemesia-argentifolii monthly 0.5 2013-08-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357515878420-4OC2NLQESG4EZQJG75L0/1%3A1%3A13+1st.jpg Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly: The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bermisia tabaci</i>, a.k.a <i>Bemesia argentifolii</i> https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372788255552-F2RNZPKOVJUOHBI7MQYZ/whiteflydamage2_1000+copy.jpg Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly: The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bermisia tabaci</i>, a.k.a <i>Bemesia argentifolii</i> Yellow patches on leaves may be a sign of whiteflies feeding below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372788411363-JU6QPVNICKEZPUVNL41G/whiteflycol_1000.jpg Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly: The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bermisia tabaci</i>, a.k.a <i>Bemesia argentifolii</i> If you are lucky, you may find a colony of whiteflies decorating your holiday poinsettia. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/the-holly-and-the-ivy-a-two-part-series-this-week-the-ivy-and-the-thrips-thripidae monthly 0.5 2013-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372794886179-9DDPIZDNBMT6U2G16B5J/ivythripsdam2576.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and the Ivy - A two part series: This week the ivy and the thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> The variegated ivy developed a case of thrips-induced holiday blues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372794946402-ZZ8OB4HQHKDR22ECLNAP/2ivythripsdam1000.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and the Ivy - A two part series: This week the ivy and the thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> Brown discolored leaves can be a sign of thrips at work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372794966258-BLJM9AQZBVTW2IVHH47R/3thripsnymph1000.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and the Ivy - A two part series: This week the ivy and the thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> Yellow wingless nymphs sip plants fluids and leave behind dark droplets of excrement. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/the-holly-and-ivy-a-two-part-series-this-week-the-holly-and-the-native-holly-leaf-miner-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372851902675-AXV0VVDHGFXDVTS6UEZO/nativehollylm_1000.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy - A two part series: This week the holly and the native holly leaf miner, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> This snakelike gallery ends with a tiny hole, the escape hatch for the native holly leafminer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372852084657-FT6H04BGNLTBCMGTR7ZQ/hollylmadult_1000.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy - A two part series: This week the holly and the native holly leaf miner, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Adult holly leafminers resemble small houseflies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372852004229-9ZRQS0UZZZPYFJ1KKTOG/hollylmlarv_850.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy - A two part series: This week the holly and the native holly leaf miner, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Peeling back the leaf surface reveals the tiny yellow holly leafminer larva feeding in the gallery.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372852108622-T4I0F72D542WTWD53ZVA/hollypuncture_1000.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy - A two part series: This week the holly and the native holly leaf miner, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Feeding punctures on the leaf surface may cause leaves to curl. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/pantry-surprises-indian-meal-moth-plodia-interpunctella monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357338969299-2W79ATKDRZ0SSK5BWM2F/12%3A3%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Pantry surprises - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Adult Indian meal moths like these two stuck in a pheromone trap often flutter about pantries and cupboards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357339082429-9YYNK7C5FGV14IXOKFWZ/12%3A3%3A12+2nd.png Current Issue - Pantry surprises - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Meal moth caterpillars excavate seeds and generate scores of pellets of frass, a polite term for insect excrement. Frass is often a good sign of a meal moth infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357339591399-46F8DGLIY0HN60617N44/12%3A3%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Pantry surprises - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Strands of silk on the inside of food containers are another clue of a meal moth infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357339757168-VIDWSNI5OT6B7L6IFMNS/12%3A3%3A12+4th.png Current Issue - Pantry surprises - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Indian meal moth caterpillars can chew through plastic bags of grain, seeds, and fruit. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/26/decorations-on-the-christmas-tree-egg-cases-of-the-praying-mantis-imantis-religiosai-chinese-mantis-itenodera-sinensisi-and-carolina-mantis-istagmomantis-carolinai monthly 0.5 2013-08-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372876875878-7PF8L2DS4RROREYPXEYJ/1mrpreg_800.jpg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> A beautiful European praying mantis rests on a holly shortly before laying her eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372877257878-QY0N8DBC3BC0YWPN93CF/2ootheca_bitter_800.jpg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> An ootheca of the Chinese praying mantis snuck into my home on vine of bittersweet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372877300096-6EPYO4YDNO0NRZCNUPN6/3carolina_800.jpg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> A gorgeous Carolina mantis waits for a meal or perhaps a mate who might be a dinner guest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372877332285-YYHIVBDA4PSB4BKLZK0T/4mrootheca_800.jpg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> If your Christmas tree has an ornament like this, you may have a holiday surprise! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372878123643-HJ4C2KCMLS9TDGD7E02K/5carolina_1000adj.jpg Current Issue - Decorations on the Christmas tree: Egg cases of the European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i>, Chinese mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</i>, and Carolina mantis, <i>Stagmomantis carolina</i> Tiny Carolina mantises emerge from their egg case in spring and hunt small insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/15/northern-hospitality-for-the-florida-predatory-stink-bug-ieuthyrhynchus-floridanusi-and-wax-scales-iceroplastesi-spp monthly 0.5 2013-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373291986482-V3RHV9SPA4L2B1NAO5VH/floridastinkbug_800.jpg Current Issue - Northern hospitality for the Florida predatory stink bug, <i>Euthyrhynchus floridanus</i>, and wax scales, <i>Ceroplastes</i> spp.  This resident of Florida, a predatory stink bug, was observed chillin’ on the bark of an elm tree in College Park last week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373292042348-2CJLJ8V6GGCV2K2LQ0BY/hollywax-under-1500x1296.jpg Current Issue - Northern hospitality for the Florida predatory stink bug, <i>Euthyrhynchus floridanus</i>, and wax scales, <i>Ceroplastes</i> spp.  Beneath the white waxy glob is the small reddish scale insect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1353096811993-A6J1AN825HCATHNO940X/cameo-300.jpg Current Issue - Northern hospitality for the Florida predatory stink bug, <i>Euthyrhynchus floridanus</i>, and wax scales, <i>Ceroplastes</i> spp. For obvious reasons, young scales are called cameos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373291737940-17SFT2OEGPCXLJSOASMW/sootymold-2000.jpg Current Issue - Northern hospitality for the Florida predatory stink bug, <i>Euthyrhynchus floridanus</i>, and wax scales, <i>Ceroplastes</i> spp. Sooty mold is a sure sign of a honeydew producer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/15/mallow-on-the-menu-for-the-scentless-plant-bug-iniesthrea-lousianicai monthly 0.5 2021-07-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373292287994-LHSMX2KNOGTU36C2US66/niesthrea-1800mjr.jpg Current Issue - Mallow on the menu for the scentless plant bug, <i>Niesthrea lousianica</i> Stripes and bold patterns are definitely "in" this season for Niesthrea. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/10/31/h4udl41f2b856sb9qt540srxgjgngf monthly 0.5 2013-07-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373292942131-QFMND0466AKQUZEZ2F61/ermine800.jpg Current Issue - Stylish Lepidoptera: Ermine Moth, <i>Atteva aurea</i>; Yellow-Collared Scape Moth, <i>Cisseps fulvicollis</i>; Pearl Crescent, <i>Phyciodes tharos</i>; Variegated Fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Ermine moths wear a royal robe of orange, black, and white scales. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373293057523-EWFI3WGXSR5JNU0RRJJ6/variegatedfrit_800.jpg Current Issue - Stylish Lepidoptera: Ermine Moth, <i>Atteva aurea</i>; Yellow-Collared Scape Moth, <i>Cisseps fulvicollis</i>; Pearl Crescent, <i>Phyciodes tharos</i>; Variegated Fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Butterfly weed is a favorite nectar source for the variegated fritillary. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/10/15/dashing-caterpillars-predicting-weather-woolly-bears-ipyrrharctia-isabellai-yellow-bears-ispilosoma-virginicai-and-leopard-moths-ihypercompe-scriboniai-missing-videos monthly 0.5 2020-01-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359571554430-SKSPVV12RM2DDLLTAX0C/rolled-leopardmoth-600.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather- Woolly bears, Pyrrharctia isabella, saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea, and leopard moths, Hypercompe scribonia The giant leopard moth caterpillar curls into a ball when threatened. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373294867130-NSFPVGWMX185CVZC2JI5/Leopardmoth_CS.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather- Woolly bears, Pyrrharctia isabella, saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea, and leopard moths, Hypercompe scribonia The adult Leopard moth is a thing of beauty with black patterned white wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/5/hocus-pocus-silver-spotted-skipper-epargyreus-clarus monthly 0.5 2013-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1352144163407-YI0326EBWXZM4XKZS1YE/2silspots3_600.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus: Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyreus clarus<i> Adult silver spotted skippers are regular visitors to the garden https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372878936014-L2QCVRRZ2SNS8PMK1LP7/sssleaf_300.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus: Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyreus clarus<i> Young silver spotted skipper larvae hide in rolled margins of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1372879014615-HY6HB3YL3WY0QJAXTM09/silverskipcat_788.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus: Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyreus clarus<i> Large silver spotted skipper larvae web together entire leaves.   https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/26/a-gathering-storm-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2019-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373466533055-O81L3V4O5QPUEW5ZLBCP/bmsbsmall800y.jpg Current Issue - A gathering storm: Halyomorpha halys With the onset of autumn weather, brown marmorated stink bugs storm a household. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373466752417-332F6E5V5Y1078HKP8N7/tomatostinkbugs800.jpg Current Issue - A gathering storm: Halyomorpha halys Tomato is on the menu for this band of stink bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/mystery-of-the-frass-revealed-camouflaged-looper-isynchlora-aeratai monthly 0.5 2013-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373470400429-J5DJT0YEMY3YW436HOJV/clooperfrass_1000mjr.jpg Current Issue - Mystery of the frass revealed: Camouflaged looper, <i>Synchlora aerata<i> Blossoms sprinkled with frass are a clue that a hungry caterpillar is near. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373470456447-E0XKO5ZN68XW98J0HFIY/camolooergolden2_1000mjr.jpg Current Issue - Mystery of the frass revealed: Camouflaged looper, <i>Synchlora aerata<i> Goldenrods are another favored host of the camouflaged looper. (Do you see the looper in this picture?) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373470485293-C00IP842UE1AC5DZY0EY/camoloopermoth_1000mjr.jpg Current Issue - Mystery of the frass revealed: Camouflaged looper, <i>Synchlora aerata<i> The camouflaged looper turns into a beautiful emerald green moth. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/11/27/the-royals-are-in-the-house-the-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2021-08-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373472427756-A5NDEX5AK6OIQ228Z0U6/Monarch_1500adj.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house - the Monarch Butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> A monarch prepares to carbo-load on nectar before performing its royal tasks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1354072312272-ROOTBEF37O4OTPIGPH9C/moncat2_J_adj.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house - the Monarch Butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> The fully-grown caterpillar assumes the “J” position just before pupation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373473151762-20ICT2RIG8PZ9IQMF2M9/moncat1_adj.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house - the Monarch Butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> A small monarch caterpillar rests on a leaf before beginning its next meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373473121795-3RGVL6LG0IZAJ4JZGWE3/MonChrys1500_adj.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house - the Monarch Butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> In the chrysalis, the caterpillar transforms into a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/29/stinging-caterpillars-white-flannel-moth-norape-ovina-and-saddleback-caterpillar-archaria-stimulea monthly 0.5 2013-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356811224556-XGRD7HNEQ461V395KTIS/8%3A27%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Stinging caterpillars - White flannel moth, <i>Norape ovina</i>, and Saddleback caterpillar, </i>Archaria stimulea<i> Poison glands in the skin of the caterpillar prepare a potent toxin delivered by urticating hairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373473865478-DVNQL20GD0HDP5KWEA14/Wh+flannel+caterpillars_B+Nixon.jpg Current Issue - Stinging caterpillars - White flannel moth, <i>Norape ovina</i>, and Saddleback caterpillar, </i>Archaria stimulea<i> White flannel moth caterpillars are sometimes found in large numbers feeding on leaves of trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356812068794-WIB1LUKGBTSPKJQNNM12/8%3A27%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Stinging caterpillars - White flannel moth, <i>Norape ovina</i>, and Saddleback caterpillar, </i>Archaria stimulea<i> Dozens of wasp cocoons adorn the back of this saddleback caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/8/20/beware-of-mosquitoes-and-west-nile-virus monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1345483808092-2RZH6GX5LP0BAAL7Z0IM/asianfeedA_700.jpg Current Issue - Beware of Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus Yikes! This Asian tiger mosquito better pull out before it explodes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1345485751997-OD7G9QEEORVARLAN163Z/culexraft_adj_676+copy.jpg Current Issue - Beware of Mosquitoes and West Nile Virus Hundreds of larvae will hatch from these three egg rafts floating on the surface of the water. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/8/20/scorched-locust-locust-leafminer-iodontota-dorsalisi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1345494201330-GHR2DJOBRF8JAQQ36JHL/4loclmpupad_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> Ready to continue the feast on locust this adult leafminer emerges from its pupal case.  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1345494358221-QJUGZ5Z9P569KK8858MQ/1locustlmdam_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> Were these black locusts assaulted with a blow torch?  https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373475340085-0T4MF9RTGAUMV08AADBE/2loclmeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i>  After laying a batch of eggs, this leafminer mama will cover them with excrement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373475396517-O7O5VV2W0SXORFFNEM3K/5loclmad_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i>  A second generation of locust leafminers emerges later in the summer and begins to eat leaves already attacked by larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1373475216813-5ASZB1KANCSMVSPJQ66Q/3loclmlarv_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i>  The larva mines the soft tissue between the upper and lower surfaces of the locust leaf. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/28/herbs-beware-black-swallowtail-ipapilio-polyxenesi-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374068882933-5ORDRQD6AF5TKJS766G5/bswalovip1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Herbs beware! Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> Dill is the perfect plant on which to lay eggs if you are a black swallowtail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374069046622-E2LT10XEKKAQF9B9HYJP/blackswallowegg2500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Herbs beware! Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> Soon these tiny eggs will hatch into hungry caterpillars. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/28/damsels-not-in-distress-idamselflies-zygopterai monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370623957509-1UENNECH1XVBKPQFO9BL/bluet_500.png Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – <i>Damselflies, Zygoptera</i> Like a delicate banner in the breeze small damselflies like this bluet often perch horizontally on vegetation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370623990606-8D24AUW4T7GRFARODHI3/jewelwings_700.png Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – <i>Damselflies, Zygoptera</i> The gorgeous ebony jewelwing is often found near small streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624041854-SY7FQA1I9JEAOHNP06AY/damselnym_adj_500.jpg Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – <i>Damselflies, Zygoptera</i> Leaf-like gills on the tail of the damselfly nymph allow it to remove oxygen from the water. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/heres-looking-at-you-kid-eyed-click-beetle-ialaus-oculatusi-missing-vid-and-links monthly 0.5 2017-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357166515499-YXLUZ61MNXR1797W45WZ/eyedadlt-600.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid: Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i> False eyespots may help the eyed click beetle look scary to predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357166793968-Z529D8I0X30CJ2CM10H0/clickspine-600+%281%29.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid: Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i> The spine and notch are part of the engineering that give this beetle its click. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357166748386-NNFOUKWEA6J1Y7096ETB/eyedlarva-600.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid: Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i> The larva of the eyed elater has powerful jaws to kill its prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/the-killing-fields-dog-day-cicadas-itibicen-sppi-and-cicada-killer-wasps-isphecius-speciosusimissing-link-and-vid monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624099489-9QUPJ0PR1AB131DUGP05/1dogday_800+copy.jpg Current Issue - The killing fields – Dog day cicadas, <i>Tibicen spp.</i>, and Cicada killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> This newly molted dog day cicada waits patiently as its exoskeleton hardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624148119-OXOWYQK71YI5NTL017BM/cicadakillermale-600.png Current Issue - The killing fields – Dog day cicadas, <i>Tibicen spp.</i>, and Cicada killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> The cicada killer is a large, strikingly marked wasp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624184247-2BL4F2W08LXDU8ZG55K9/cicadaabandon-600.png Current Issue - The killing fields – Dog day cicadas, <i>Tibicen spp.</i>, and Cicada killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> Paralyzed cicadas are sometimes abandoned near the nest site. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/summer-nights-and-lucifers-lights-lightning-bugs-lampyridaemissing-video monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374072713197-U8ZDNQ3QAPSREMW48RZD/lightning-bug-adult-1457_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Summer nights and Lucifer’s lights – Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Giant eyes help fireflies detect flashes of their mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374072755736-G9VGBOIYQER2P1PM9OBU/glowworm-600_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Summer nights and Lucifer’s lights – Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Glowworms patrol the soil in search of worms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates that are their prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/deadly-dining-three-lined-potato-beetle-ilema-trilineatai monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374074800488-U3OBK9TWA72J1BHF0XTG/3linedpotato_1000+copy.jpg Current Issue - Deadly dining – Three lined potato beetle, <i>Lema trilineata</i> A dinner of nightshade is deadly to some, but not to the three lined potato beetle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374074886972-T07C6BWBCSY56VINF4V1/3linepotatoeggs_800.jpg Current Issue - Deadly dining – Three lined potato beetle, <i>Lema trilineata</i> A messy cluster of eggs will soon hatch into hungry beetle larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374074905111-0BWRB8F97SWC0MWE15PI/nightshade_1000.jpg Current Issue - Deadly dining – Three lined potato beetle, <i>Lema trilineata</i> Bittersweet nightshade presents beautiful blossoms. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/misery-named-the-japanese-beetle-ipopillia-japonicai monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374075476884-66ITYRNCSSMOMDBU0PLM/jpbeetles1489_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> A horde of beetles can put a beating on trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374075609115-VOXP26UCLVLWBWDQ1U73/jbtrap1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> Japanese beetle traps catch thousands of beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374075657433-L8B70DLYOCCK45XRCITV/whitegrub1000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> Japanese beetle grubs like this one thrive on roots of grasses. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/a-welcomed-vagabond-variegated-fritillary-ieuptoieta-claudiai monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374076704362-FME9DYBMU2E8K8Y4XJLS/variegated1000_copy.jpg Current Issue - A welcomed vagabond - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Fritillaries find butterfly weed irresistible. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374076911893-MIHZT3RX04L5K5DSG7HO/fritcat750_copy.jpg Current Issue - A welcomed vagabond - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Violets throughout the garden are food for fritillary caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374077607894-MILF9383F6W83RPEV8X4/fritpup+800_copy.jpg Current Issue - A welcomed vagabond - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i>  Within a breathtaking chrysalis, the caterpillar becomes a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/recyclers-in-the-circle-of-life-bess-beetles-iodontotaenius-disjunctusi monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374078202636-TIKR0FK0UL2GP7SOMSQS/besshorn_900+copy.jpg Current Issue - Recyclers in the circle of life - Bess beetles, <i>Odontotaenius disjunctus</i> Powerful jaws and a magnificent horn are standard equipment for a bess beetle. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/lace-bugs-on-the-attack monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358961283453-MX7MZPQRZBFDQAVOVDFH/azaleadam_600.png Current Issue - Lace bugs on the attack! Feeding by azalea lace bug turned leaves of this azalea snowy white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358961377857-BM2IOYQJ8SA7RUK4NJM4/androm1_600.png Current Issue - Lace bugs on the attack! Fecal spots on the underside of leaves are a sure sign of lace bugs such as this gorgeous andromeda lace bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358961427075-8C86KV8L2FLNW6KC9VA5/hawthorn1_600.png Current Issue - Lace bugs on the attack! A bevy of hawthorn lace bug nymphs feast on an unfortunate leaf of cotoneaster. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/maple-eyes-ocellate-maple-gall-midge-acericecis-ocellaris monthly 0.5 2013-07-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374085515760-3U2FYMXVSDA1GIFE3VOD/mapleeyegal2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Maple Eyes – Ocellate maple gall midge, Acericecis ocellaris Crazy red and yellow eyespots stare from the surface of a maple leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374085493221-M9N2IYA7YDGHO3SR08OE/blm2-518_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Maple Eyes – Ocellate maple gall midge, Acericecis ocellaris Adult ocellate gall midges closely resemble the boxwood leafminer seen here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374085563400-ARTFRCDBTT8B1RQQN8PT/mapleeyegalllarva1700_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Maple Eyes – Ocellate maple gall midge, Acericecis ocellaris At the center of each eyespot a small translucent fly larva feeds. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/24/death-by-fly-flower-flies-aka-hover-flies-syrphidae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2020-08-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374086433206-X5L93GIZ4T13XKP0ER6W/tcisyrphegg_1740_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Death by fly: Flower Flies (a.k.a. hover flies), Syrphidae Unsuspecting aphids face certain death when the flower fly egg hatches in a few days. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/a-sweeter-side-of-aphids-iaphididaei-missing-vids-and-links monthly 0.5 2020-05-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374088490526-AOHKORLKVTOKYGP93J98/honeydew589_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - A sweeter side of aphids, Aphididae Tiny liquid jewels of honeydew adorn the leaves of aphid-infested plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374088550072-6ERGM8C7CZX39LPJ19FL/aphidbirths1237Z_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - A sweeter side of aphids, Aphididae When aphids are born, breech seems to be the rule. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374088605281-OZ9FCDW8JLJPP5U5ZVUU/waspaphid587_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - A sweeter side of aphids, Aphididae A beneficial parasitic wasp stops by a leaf for a quick carbohydrate fix. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374088729591-1GBTE9WPGT6XXMGRCWIC/sootymold388_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - A sweeter side of aphids, Aphididae Honeydew serves as the substrate for an ugly leaf-coating fungus called sooty mold. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/2/1/twisting-the-day-away-boxwood-leafminer-imonarthropalpus-flavusi monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374154424331-XJJCNUYFQGCBEJ6BJ2WF/blmdamage_ps_mjr1000+copy.jpg Current Issue - Twisting the day away: Boxwood leafminer, <i>Monarthropalpus flavus<i> Orange blisters on boxwood leaves are a good indication of leafminers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374154601232-4RSAVT5VR2VBAFXSZDVT/blmlarvapup2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Twisting the day away: Boxwood leafminer, <i>Monarthropalpus flavus<i> Boxwood leafminer larvae and pupae can be found inside the galled leaf tissue before adults emerge in spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/31/explore-the-insect-petting-zoo-saturday-april-28-2012 monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359687702248-EKXORWDEQTY3G5UO5LIZ/4%3A23%3A12+1st.jpg Current Issue - Explore the Insect Petting Zoo - Saturday April 28, 2012 Lubbers have a lubberly face. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359687755568-YK4470T68OBMQ0ZSARKM/4%3A23%3A12+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Explore the Insect Petting Zoo - Saturday April 28, 2012 Watch out for the whip scorpion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359688086948-5B4QRXNOCKZXFF4V6KCB/4%3A23%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Explore the Insect Petting Zoo - Saturday April 28, 2012 Learn what to do about stink bugs in your home and garden. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/tiger-tiger-burning-bright-six-spotted-green-tiger-beetle-icicindela-sexguttatai monthly 0.5 2013-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374156559769-RUFM9UVX3LK4Y514EB8X/tigersearch1000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Tiger, tiger, burning bright! Six-spotted green tiger beetle, <i>Cicindela sexguttata</i> A tiger beetle scans the forest floor for potential food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374156714478-NTHF45S3JS3PX21QX08N/tiger-larva1145_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Tiger, tiger, burning bright! Six-spotted green tiger beetle, <i>Cicindela sexguttata</i> The strange looking tiger beetle larva lives in an underground lair and captures unsuspecting prey that stray too near. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/28/spring-beauties-plasterer-bees-and-yellow-faced-bees-icolletidaei monthly 0.5 2013-07-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624539830-NGW2FKQ1XG9ZC829FZ4R/4%3A9%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Spring beauties: Plasterer bees and yellow-faced bees, <i>Colletidae<i> Pink pollen from the spring beauty clings to the legs and body of this solitary bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370624558412-O4ZCAJDA68GC2J1OY7L9/4%3A9%3A12+2nd.png Current Issue - Spring beauties: Plasterer bees and yellow-faced bees, <i>Colletidae<i> From the safety of its burrow, a plasterer bee takes a peek at a bug geek with a camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370625245311-O6Q70MPT5R5VZ56ZX8C2/4%3A9%3A12+3rd.png Current Issue - Spring beauties: Plasterer bees and yellow-faced bees, <i>Colletidae<i> Yellow-faced bees are very docile and pose no threat to humans. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/yet-another-exotic-invader-euonymus-leaf-notcher-ipryeria-siniciai monthly 0.5 2013-07-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375120255203-MP31DTZ5SQXDUR5N4WUI/1eln_larvaemass378_sqsp+copy.jpg Current Issue - Yet another exotic invader: Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinicia<i> A group of hungry leaf notch caterpillars chow down on a tender young euonymus leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375120286902-6R26KZ004YHJVB4MX8LI/2elnfemaleseggs2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Yet another exotic invader: Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinicia<i> Female moths line twigs with clusters of eggs in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375120335465-IO8QSZCLFLLDF9EDG4YA/3eln_pupae1000_adj_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Yet another exotic invader: Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinicia<i> Caterpillars transform into moths from pupae concealed in brown cocoons that are hidden amongst fallen leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375120469188-P04NPGYS535AP01G38CV/09Pryeria_distri.jpg Current Issue - Yet another exotic invader: Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinicia<i> Distribution of the euonymus leaf notcher in Maryland. Image: Dick Bean, MDA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375120546974-APBR6ZYE3JI7XE2O7YF2/4elnlarvaedamage496_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Yet another exotic invader: Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinicia<i>  Damage has been done on these leaves by the Euonymus leaf notch caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/25/hail-mason-bees-iosmia-sppi-harbringers-of-spring monthly 0.5 2013-07-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375123626686-RTGXIBQJY3WOMH3MA5J5/1bluemason1468_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Hail mason bees, <i>Osmia spp.</i> - Harbringers of Spring! Blue orchard mason bees are early season pollinators of some of our most important fruit crops, like apples and cherries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375123674253-SFQK6YRYAES7LJXHFU2D/2masonbee-colony-1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Hail mason bees, <i>Osmia spp.</i> - Harbringers of Spring! Cardboard tubes and drilled firewood make suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375123824607-UZJRNH2891LE693OCAL9/3masonbee-pollen-ball-1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Hail mason bees, <i>Osmia spp.</i> - Harbringers of Spring! Mason bee larvae consume pollen cakes prepared by their mother. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/exodus-underway-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2019-06-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374515379459-V9PJ47T1TNURIOJSDNUH/bmsbserviceberry1500_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys With the return of spring, brown marmorated stink bugs are on the move. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374515693305-MOWKACWSERXJKWG0DMFG/BMSBnymphsandeggs900_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys The pearly eggs and brightly colored newly hatched BMSB nymphs are not difficult to identify. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1374517608610-LCGBPPDV8DCKR38M92ZK/savetheleg_adj.jpg Current Issue - Exodus underway: Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys One farmer reported an outbreak of praying mantids in his stink bug-infested field. Let's hope this lass left behind dozens of hungry youngsters with wicked appetites for stink bugs! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/ants-protecting-plants-ipseudomyrmexi-ants-and-bullhorn-iacaciasi monthly 0.5 2013-07-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375129247289-DN145MWYEZW82RB0TWCI/beltiannectaries1400_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Ants protecting plants: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants and bullhorn <i>Acacias</i> Specialized green glands at the leaf's base produce nectar for ants, and orange Beltian bodies are a source of lipids and proteins for them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375129441362-Y5Q5AJP475TSDMIQIU9Q/thorn-hole-1000x745.jpg Current Issue - Ants protecting plants: <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants and bullhorn <i>Acacias</i> Small holes in the thorn allow ants to enter and exit. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/tropical-fungus-gardeners-leafcutter-ants-iattai-and-iacromyrmex-sppi monthly 0.5 2013-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370625928440-XSD78RCRZIYV6C5WBJ8V/3%3A5%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners - Leafcutter ants: <i>Atta</i> and <i>Acromyrmex spp.</i> Leafcutters don't leave much behind when defoliating favored plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370625950161-7USHHTJELU6GBISPTJ6D/3%3A5%3A12+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners - Leafcutter ants: <i>Atta</i> and <i>Acromyrmex spp.</i> Jaws of leafcutter ant soldiers can open wounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370625995481-A9MJE86FO1L6XN47MCCY/3%3A5%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Tropical fungus gardeners - Leafcutter ants: <i>Atta</i> and <i>Acromyrmex spp.</i> Ventilation shafts cool the underground ant colony and provide for the exchange of gasses. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/green-tree-ant-sister-act-ioecophylla-smaragdinai monthly 0.5 2013-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375364553337-U1O2AHNTDNDRQHSEVD3S/1greentreeants1000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Green Tree Ant Sister Act: <i>Oecophylla smaragdina</i> With its abdomen poised in the air, a major worker readies to defend the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375364531450-RC5FV5YCXD41ZZR5LHJU/2greentreeantnest1250_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Green Tree Ant Sister Act: <i>Oecophylla smaragdina</i> A single colony of green tree ants may consist of several smaller nests distributed in several trees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/coontie-and-the-atala-butterfly-ieumaeus-atalai monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375808650050-ZXLS1XDT3LF8IO75H0WX/1atala1950-sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Bright colors of the Atala butterfly warn predators not to take a bite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375808672305-MU0YO4I4Z7301V0GKPH4/2coontie2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Widespread planting of cycads in landscapes may support the return of the Atala in Florida. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375808702369-XXATAZ5CLO05JRSX9I12/3atalaeggs2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> Hatched eggs of the Atala festoon the coontie's cones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375808795589-SF2HAZYXE0M7M804I42B/4atalacat2000_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Coontie and the Atala butterfly, <i>Eumaeus atala</i> The Atala caterpillar stores noxious chemicals as it eats the leaves of the coontie. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/beetles-roasting-on-an-open-fire-roundheaded-borers-icerambycidaei-and-darkling-beetles-ifamily-tenebrionidaei monthly 0.5 2017-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375366343991-M473GJU09V700HKZPQ9D/1milkweedlonghorned720_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> Red milkweed beetles adorn milkweed florets in summer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375366486506-JDDJWX51ZKM10QEAU8KL/2-13-12+1st.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> Galleries like these beneath the bark of my firewood are often made by roundheaded borers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375366592957-SFJ1O1NZ5B4HKWBJINJ5/2-13-12+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> Roundheaded borers have powerful jaws but usually lack legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375366757021-OVSUXQ55ON94UBXW8S8U/4longhorn669_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> The adult stage of a roundheaded borer is a longhorned beetle, named for its very long antennae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375367061156-HBYSIA4GZYRNFSKNWFOC/2%3A13%3A12+5th.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> A gang of darkling beetles find winter refuge beneath bark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375367357827-SN54ID61HW4UC4M85821/2%3A13%3A12+6th.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire: Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i>, and Darkling beetles <i>(Family Tenebrionidae)</i> Although he is moving rather slowly now, this darkling beetle larva will develop quickly when warmer temperatures return, https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/12/bugs-in-love-lovebugs-and-kissing-bugs monthly 0.5 2013-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375370273354-SP66ACNESTKJFX3J06MT/2%3A6%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs This pair of unicorn beetles doesn't mind a public display of affection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375370510066-ZTVU3MTXNJKPSBSI6UQH/2%3A6%3A12+2nd.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs A dinner date hits the spot for these two wheel bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375370565634-PU5W711NUCTZR62X2YJY/2%3A6%3A12+3rd.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs First dates can even be awkward for milkweed longhorned beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375371205269-CQK2X4X4AL1DMIPE7YP7/2-6-12+4th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs  Seventeen years underground might make you as shy as these periodical cicadas appear to be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375370764256-1VALJRKLKJHB294GS7XR/bibionid_495.jpg Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs Lovebugs and other bibionid flies like this one commonly feed on nectar.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375370838036-NDR7JO77URHM5UQNJKGI/2%3A6%3A12+6th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love: lovebugs and kissing bugs Kissing bugs get their name by sucking blood from people's lips. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/snow-fleas-collembola monthly 0.5 2013-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375371799776-KQ9UUSU6Q17K8UKEEW38/8-30-12+2nd.png Current Issue - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola</i> Long antennae may help this springtail find food in an icy land. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375376661554-9BWSHV98XHSK2DJVK6A9/8%3A30%3A12+1st.jpg Current Issue - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola</i> Despite chilly feet these spidery looking springtails are active in the snow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375376946908-D1EAQ7LAM06R3PO8A305/8%3A30%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola</i> This springtail is frozen in a minuscule glacier. His forklike furcula is visible at the end of the abdomen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/dashing-through-the-snow-snow-scorpionflies-boreus-sp monthly 0.5 2013-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375377512837-IS7YZ7W9X7U5MKVNCFWA/snowscorp+feeding592.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.</i> On a wintry day, moss makes a fine meal for a snow scorpionfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375377605579-ASPDDUAEAEFE2EU6VIC0/snowscorps+mating882.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow: Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.</i> Neither snow nor ice can cool the romance between male and female snow scorpionflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/ever-seen-a-stone-fly-winter-stoneflies-family-taeniopterygidae monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375811472541-GQ9LT6OITIH9R0UY9IX3/1winterstoneflyadult_400adj.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterygidae</i> Winter stoneflies are active even on chilly days in January. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375811492893-OB75Z1TPA0YNTUM3HEPD/NYMPH1_1653B.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterygidae</i> Stonefly nymphs search for food and hide among the small stones at the bottom of streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375812057732-KTE92R0AC90LI4Z4GLD4/1%3A16%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterygidae</i> Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to hunt winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/a-moth-in-winter-the-fall-cankerworm-alsophila-pometaria monthly 0.5 2015-07-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375812256075-XY2MESRXU5H5T7M3IW5W/1%3A9%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter: the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Two wingless female fall cankerworm moths bask in the January sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375812504609-L1GF7UG8ISK7BYV7E20W/1%3A9%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter: the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> The fall cankerworm male is a good flyer and follows a scent trail to find his mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375812569745-3814FE50RY17T305LE5U/1%3A9%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter: the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> The female fall cankerworm lacks functional mouthparts and does not eat. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/deck-the-hollies-with-trails-of-leaf-miners-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375812920053-8TWMZ4S3BMDITH0469K2/1%3A2%3A12+1st.jpg Current Issue - "Deck the Hollies with trails of leaf miners" - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola</i> Snakelike galleries are a sure sign of holly leaf miners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813023417-XQ4UYJOUPZ42OTI3DBPV/1%3A2%3A12+2nd.jpg Current Issue - "Deck the Hollies with trails of leaf miners" - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola</i> Peeling back the leaf surface reveals the yellow holly leaf miner larva feeding in the gallery below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813089791-EVOZ9W0AVTNZCU3JRY4Y/1%3A2%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - "Deck the Hollies with trails of leaf miners" - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola</i> Punctures on the leaf surface indicate where the female pierced the leaf surface to feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/legends-of-tinsel-and-christmas-spiders monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813415156-532MCF2TTJGKB3QQM00O/1spidertinsel1200_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Legends of Tinsel and Christmas spiders Spider ornaments evoke the legends of spiders, tinsel, and christmas trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813576292-LWMAI8BQ3GMXGNXM6ZKX/2tinselweb1200_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Legends of Tinsel and Christmas spiders It's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813645414-K9UNLJBYHU1G0TP6P2T7/3spidereggs1200_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Legends of Tinsel and Christmas spiders In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and decorate the tree with silk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375813663505-9IONX07CJOFP6I4S728D/4spider-food-wrapped1200_sqsp.jpg Current Issue - Legends of Tinsel and Christmas spiders Spider sacs deck the hollies like tiny ornaments. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/cooley-spruce-gall-adelgids-adelges-cooleyi monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375814751480-FFF2O9BNV0MHWCDQI2ID/12%3A19%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> On Douglas fir female Cooley spruce gall adelgids lay a dozen or more eggs in cottony masses of wax. Eggs hatch and small brown nymphs settle down to feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375814815780-PGXIUNPC7ZS51ZGAFLA0/12%3A19%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> Cooley spruce gall adelgids enslave the genetic machinery of the spruce tree causing it to form an abnormal, pineapple shaped home for the insect called a gall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375814858967-MVDMIVQYS8S5VHMULK2K/12%3A19%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> Within the gall are dozens of chambers housing spruce gall adelgid nymphs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375814899437-BGGCK22IF2QBDJ4W82PY/12%3A19%3A11+4th.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/flocked-hemlocks-hemlock-woolly-adelgid-adelges-tsugae monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375815058194-HJF1Z8FBP6S1Z5U8HNVD/12%3A12%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hemlocks - hemlock woolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> Eastern hemlocks are beautiful native trees well suited for home landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375815164851-5NX7FKH54XAL4GR5ZLGG/12%3A12%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hemlocks - hemlock woolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> The hemlock woolly adelgid has killed thousands of eastern hemlocks such as these in Shenandoah National Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375815316767-R662DQ8Y7D7P0UIJ6JRH/12%3A12%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hemlocks - hemlock woolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> White bundles of fluffy wax are a sure sign of a woolly adelgid infestation on hemlocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375815500981-BFUGUXV1MAD7GFSJO3SF/12%3A12%3A11+4th.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hemlocks - hemlock woolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae</i> Beneath its waxy cover the adelgid robs the hemlock of vital reserves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/white-waxy-ladies-hyperaspis-ladybugs monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375815909276-I7UWWIFT1ATDQ5NCS16I/12%3A5%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - White, waxy ladies - <i>Hyperaspis</i> ladybugs A white, waxy coat may help this ladybug larva survive attacks from would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370626382413-VO44OQP2ICFLHZ2NZ8J6/12%3A5%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - White, waxy ladies - <i>Hyperaspis</i> ladybugs The adult Hyperaspis ladybug searches for prey near a mound of scale insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/red-and-black-boxelder-bugs-boisea-trivittatus monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816042867-XDDFJIU0YPV1V9AXYMVD/11%3A28%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs: <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Boxelder bugs bask on bricks before entering the home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816126418-40KV2AUC97IW8X4L3FKY/11%3A28%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs: <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> The seeds of boxelder are one of the favorite foods of boxelder bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816275724-Z27S2FKI8GY0FVJV1UXY/11%3A28%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs: <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> Two boxelder bugs prepare to leave a boxelder tree to find an overwintering spot.   https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/last-butterfly-of-the-season-variegated-fritillary-euptoieta-claudia monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816526269-8IQDSE1WDL3F5F2F944K/variegatedbask596adj.jpg Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Basking in the late autumn sun warms the variegated fritillary's muscles prior to flight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816624351-GXODVS5PJIV5RPR77O6N/variegated1000_copy.jpg Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> Milkweeds are a favored source for nectar and pollen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375816692602-VV2U205R1OVK1T6TB3X3/fritcat-500.jpg Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia</i> This beautiful fritillary caterpillar received a lethal spider bite and never had a chance to form a chrysalis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/white-butterflies-in-the-garden-imported-cabbageworm-pieris-rapae monthly 0.5 2013-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375817375412-KKCNHG8SXXUHC9EMCMVO/ImpCabworm1500_HGICfiles.jpg Current Issue - White butterflies in the garden - Imported cabbageworm, <i>Pieris rapae</i>  Cabbage whites flourish from spring to fall, flitting about vegetable gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375817500102-Q7TZUCLAIAZPDU9JZ57I/ImpCabwormLarva1054.jpg Current Issue - White butterflies in the garden - Imported cabbageworm, <i>Pieris rapae</i>  These bristly green caterpillars love to eat their vegetables. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375817627056-MQXFIT59BGTZ5FP5PEJO/kale+leaf.jpg Current Issue - White butterflies in the garden - Imported cabbageworm, <i>Pieris rapae</i>  Ragged holes and missing leaf margins are typical feeding damage of the imported cabbageworm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375817710034-DABJKPC9HAHQBN3AHHQI/cabbagechrys595.jpg Current Issue - White butterflies in the garden - Imported cabbageworm, <i>Pieris rapae</i>  The chrysalis provides winter refuge for the cabbageworm, which emerges as a butterfly in spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/large-schnozzolas-acorn-weevils-curculio-sp monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357538821281-Z7UW8OER4P02CYH1M0MX/11%3A7%3A11+1st.png Current Issue - Large schnozzolas - Acorn weevils, <i>Curculio sp.<i> A small trove of acorns provided food and shelter for this year's crop of acorn weevils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357539100379-DZ0IMSAVFOO89EWXX5LU/11%3A7%3A11+2nd.png Current Issue - Large schnozzolas - Acorn weevils, <i>Curculio sp.<i> Legless weevil larvae emerge form the circular holes in acorns and enter the soil in advance of winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357539224283-EJ9E76I7PSH0UEAVR2RT/11%3A7%3A11+3rd.png Current Issue - Large schnozzolas - Acorn weevils, <i>Curculio sp.<i> The acorns weevil's proboscis is remarkable by any standard. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/theres-a-sucker-born-everday-tuliptree-scale-toumeyella-iiriodendri monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357597921734-NRJLLU0GEKGZJWUS9ID9/11%3A7%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - There's a sucker born everday - Tuliptree scale, <i>Toumeyella Iiriodendri<i> Sooty mold growing on honeydew produced by scale insects change the color of this branch from brown to black. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357598180177-JDZ3P1J94Y1RANA4OL1U/11%3A7%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - There's a sucker born everday - Tuliptree scale, <i>Toumeyella Iiriodendri<i> Dozens of small black crawlers festoon the twig near their mothers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357598276019-B57RN8LAVYI5QY0LTHAZ/11%3A7%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - There's a sucker born everday - Tuliptree scale, <i>Toumeyella Iiriodendri<i> Large ants gather honeydew from the scales and provide protection from would be predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2011/10/31/orange-and-black-bugs-milkweed-leaf-beetle-ilabidomera-clivicollisi-oleander-aphid-iaphis-neriii-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359572099859-I5KLKEOQ7F3HWW3X9V39/mwlbadult_adj_600.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black Bugs- Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug - <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> After a hearty meal of milkweed leaves, this beetle is ready to lay some eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359572214361-7J4VYCG2THO6PR8F2S51/mwaphid_adj.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black Bugs- Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug - <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> In a society where everyone is or will soon be a momma, populations of oleander aphids explode. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359572299468-DM0PKNGH8IBB5EZ9OB19/mwbug_adj_600.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black Bugs- Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug - <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Long beaks enable nymphs of milkweed bugs to eat seeds within the milkweed pod. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2011/10/24/fruity-flies-drosophilidae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360037189574-KL3QNEKNO9RJGFLSAXI8/vinegar-fruitfly-trap-1500x1000.jpg Current Issue - Fruity flies – Drosophilidae Hundreds of fruit flies failed to pass their swimming test in my vinegar trap. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2011/10/17/link-and-vids-a-continental-giant-of-the-wasp-world-european-hornet-ivespa-crabroi monthly 0.5 2013-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541078325-1DUEL4RDIVP484P7L6JZ/euro-hornet-nest.jpg Current Issue - A continental giant of the wasp world - European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro</i> This spectacular European hornet nest was recovered during a home renovation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2011/10/10/links-the-bug-that-put-the-sick-in-sycamore-sycamore-lace-bug-icorythucha-ciliatai monthly 0.5 2013-03-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542647452-KF9Z87DGDYI53KRWYOQ0/syclbnymadfec2_600.jpg Current Issue - The bug that put the "sick" in sycamore - Sycamore lace bug, <i>Corythucha ciliata</i> Dozens of eggs, nymphs, and adult lace bugs can be seen on the undersides of infested leaves of sycamore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542819445-GMILWES88PHOUTACVX87/syclbadult_600.jpg Current Issue - The bug that put the "sick" in sycamore - Sycamore lace bug, <i>Corythucha ciliata</i> Lace Bugs use their delicate, lacey wings like shields to defeat attacks by predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542899322-EZHRJDJVURH2A10V2YUT/syclbnymsmall_600.jpg Current Issue - The bug that put the "sick" in sycamore - Sycamore lace bug, <i>Corythucha ciliata</i> Lace bug nymphs have dark splotches on their back. They seem to blend in with fecal deposits that litter the surface of the leaf. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2011/10/3/vids-back-walker-green-june-beetle-icotinus-nitidai monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/to-eat-a-stink-bug-part-4-they-eat-dead-things-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-becomes-a-meal-for-the-european-paper-wasp-ipolistes-dominulusi monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357777578349-TO6U1HW72F15J1REFHY0/9%3A26%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 4 - They eat dead things, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, becomes a meal for the European paper wasp, </i>Polistes dominulus<i> The hollow log is the perfect spot for a paper wasp's nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357778061898-U7QQJBXMIQA82JP2HDPG/9%3A26%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 4 - They eat dead things, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, becomes a meal for the European paper wasp, </i>Polistes dominulus<i> A guard keeps a watchful eye at the entrance to the nest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/to-eat-a-stink-bug-part-3-bug-vs-bug-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-meets-the-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi monthly 0.5 2016-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768727187-2S58OEVRB38Y5CEUCDZN/9%3A19%3A11+1st.png Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 3 - Bug vs Bug, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the wheel bug, </i>Arilus cristatus<i> Gorgeous wheel bug nymphs cluster near eggs from which they hatched before venturing off to find their prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769078113-8WRHBC3557AXN0NTQ4JZ/9%3A19%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 3 - Bug vs Bug, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, meets the wheel bug, </i>Arilus cristatus<i> Only Mother Nature and the wheel bug know the function of the wheel. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/to-eat-a-stink-bug-part-2-homegrown-hospitality-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-meets-the-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-i-argiope-aurantiai monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357760611982-VK46GAJQ6CZCAF5EQL05/9%3A12%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 2 - Homegrown hospitality, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> meets the black and yellow garden spider, </i> Argiope aurantia<i> How many spiderlings will emerge from an egg case the size of a large marble? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357760847559-4L4ACKOFZ0SGFHDINI66/9%3A12%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 2 - Homegrown hospitality, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> meets the black and yellow garden spider, </i> Argiope aurantia<i> Elvira leisurely devours her prey at the center of the web. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/to-eat-a-stink-bug-part-1-a-curious-reunion-brown-marmorated-stink-bug monthly 0.5 2017-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357783459944-HF2GYFEUKBHQODP9FT63/9%3A6%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - To eat a stink bug, part 1 - A curious reunion, Brown marmorated stink bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> , and Chinese praying mantis, <i>Tenodera sinensis</I. Protein from the stink bug will turn into hundreds of mantis eggs that pass the wicked winter inside the ootheca. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/29/webworms-of-the-fall-fall-webworm-hyphantria-cunea-and-mimosa-webworm-homadaula-anisocentra monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356814682496-Q6J8770UMLPV8SY4GCMH/8%3A29%3A11.jpg Current Issue - Webworms of the fall - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> and mimosa webworm, </i>Homadaula anisocentra<i> A hillside near Kutztown, PA is shrouded by fall webworm nests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356815441658-ZN86HEIPYBDSPS00529L/8%3A29%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Webworms of the fall - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> and mimosa webworm, </i>Homadaula anisocentra<i> This poor honeylocust was completely covered with caterpillar silk and defoliated by mimosa webworm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356815743422-HCC7LBYGHQBBEM1QDW1I/8%3A29%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Webworms of the fall - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea</i> and mimosa webworm, </i>Homadaula anisocentra<i> An assassin bug nymph deals death to a fall webworm caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/27/its-biting-time-mosquitoes-culicidae monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356641058873-Z2TPBQ9QC1VUPI7910OT/8%3A22%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - It's biting time - Mosquitoes, <i>Culicidae<i> Mosquitoes are big problems in some areas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356641201535-5FLNF63TQSP62SD7GF1X/8%3A22%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - It's biting time - Mosquitoes, <i>Culicidae<i> The Asian Tiger better pull out before it explodes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/return-of-the-royals-the-monarch-butterfly-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356134430400-Z2MPTAOMTN7SMK3QAJDL/8%3A15%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Return of the royals - the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> A monarch prepares to carbo-load on nectar before performing its royal tasks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356134592858-NBFDXWXQFWHO8Z9XO3UB/8%3A15%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Return of the royals - the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> A newly hatched monarch caterpillar prepares for its first meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356134825093-9TH3SXNQMAW191P6J7PR/8%3A15%3A11+4th.jpg Current Issue - Return of the royals - the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> In the chrysalis the caterpillar transforms to a butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356134923811-6GU5UZB1UGVEKAT28KFH/8%3A15%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Return of the royals - the monarch butterfly, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> The fully grown caterpillar assumes the "J" position just before pupation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/11/missing-vid-summer-stingers-eastern-yellowjackets-ivespula-maculifronsi monthly 0.5 2013-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375455386701-Y39L63B4355YG81CX9MY/yellow-jacket-lrg-800_Raupp.png Current Issue - Summer stingers – Eastern yellowjackets, <i>Vespula maculifrons</i> https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/20/snap-to-it-and-bag-a-bagworm-thyridopteryx-ephemeraeformis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356135690763-A53GZR3RAN47N9U61LAN/snap+to+it.jpg Current Issue - Snap to it and bag a bagworm! - <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> This poor blue spruce has a nasty, and likely lethal, case of bagworms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356042887916-RE0YRST6IMNJEJICBQ6O/8%3A1%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Snap to it and bag a bagworm! - <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> The female bagworm is a strange looking beast. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/28/to-kill-a-cicada-dog-day-cicadas-itibiceni-spp-and-their-killer-wasps-isphecius-speciosusi-missing-2-vids monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356734871699-9K4FT9LX2YDKRAQKQC1F/cicadakillermale-300.jpg Current Issue - To kill a cicada - Dog day cicadas, <i>Tibicen</i> spp., and their killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> (MISSING 2 VIDS) A male cicada killer perches on a shrub ready to challenge other males invading his space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356735023660-GPV6APFSP4DLUT9NP5I5/cicadaabandon-600.png Current Issue - To kill a cicada - Dog day cicadas, <i>Tibicen</i> spp., and their killer wasps, <i>Sphecius speciosus</i> (MISSING 2 VIDS) Paralyzed cicadas are sometimes abandoned near the nest site. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/3/milkweed-and-dogbane-battle-the-milkweed-longhorned-beetle-itetraopes-spi-and-dogbane-leaf-beetle-ichrysocus-auratusi-missing-vid-and-links monthly 0.5 2013-10-11 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/when-ladybugs-go-bad-mexican-bean-beetles-iepilachna-varivestisimissing-links-and-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357594389025-43CQ3XWH2R90WI32Q4T4/defensemex-600.png Current Issue - When ladybugs go bad - Mexican bean beetles, <i>Epilachna varivestis</i> When harassed by predators or entomologists, Mexican bean beetles release irritating chemicals that can turn your skin orange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357594694278-K4PENV08VMFULXW8BS9T/larvmex2-600-2.png Current Issue - When ladybugs go bad - Mexican bean beetles, <i>Epilachna varivestis</i> Bean beetle larvae feed between the lines and skeletonize bean leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/mother-natures-fireworks-lightning-bugs-lampyridaemissing-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357678440638-22BG946MPH2Q1UJX5N5X/lightning-bug-adult-1457.jpg Current Issue - Mother Nature's Fireworks - Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Giant eyes help fireflies detect flashes of their mates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357678564651-S0USURG5AEOHTBVVJ37M/glowworm-600.png Current Issue - Mother Nature's Fireworks - Lightning bugs, Lampyridae Glowworms patrol the soil in search of worms, slugs, and other soft-bodied invertebrates that are their prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/junes-snowfall-planthoppers-family-flatidae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357766951801-ASYZ7EPIA2TXOO8JDJC5/flatidwax_600.jpg Current Issue - June’s snowfall - Planthoppers, family Flatidae Look closely at this "flocking" and you'll see small insects along the branch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767061862-IJYYJ7AGL14UB2D94SQT/flatidnym_600.jpg Current Issue - June’s snowfall - Planthoppers, family Flatidae A profile shot reveals a flatid nymph adorned with white wax. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767123715-TB6T46O2YXNVMD1QTMUC/flatad_600.jpg Current Issue - June’s snowfall - Planthoppers, family Flatidae Adults flatids are cloaked in a waxy bloom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767184514-M82TKZEFJIGKLGWH0R9A/flatidads_600.jpg Current Issue - June’s snowfall - Planthoppers, family Flatidae Juvenile and adult flatids line branches on which they feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/genie-out-of-the-bottle-emerald-ash-borer-iagrillus-plenipennisi monthly 0.5 2013-08-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358196896446-7KW44PQVXRWS2XD4AM2Q/eab-emergin_600.jpg Current Issue - Genie out of the bottle - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Beautiful, but deadly, an emerald ash borer emerges from a tree after completing larval development. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358197312211-PA7A24QFCSKPQGZ4CPBE/eab-exit-hole_600.jpg Current Issue - Genie out of the bottle - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> The EAB adult leaves behind a "D" shaped exit hole in the bark of the tree. This is a good clue for diagnosing the presence of this pest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358197501700-6WPJQRJMLBM0DQCD0O1S/eab-larvae_600.jpg Current Issue - Genie out of the bottle - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Legless EAB larvae like these two are easily moved in firewood, logs, or branches. Please be on the lookout for these in ash tress and obey the quarantine if you live in Prince George's, Charles County, or Howard County. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358197613729-269WO5IIEQIINJI28BBH/eab-barney-trap-600.png Current Issue - Genie out of the bottle - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i> Blue Barney traps hung in trees throughout Maryland will help state officials and researchers learn where EAB is and how rapidly it is spreading. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/rosie-defoliators-roseslug-sawfly-iendelomyia-aethiopsi-and-curled-rose-sawfly-iallantus-cinctusi monthly 0.5 2022-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358289297845-4ZULWTAKG61KWFYUV0GQ/rose-slug-damage-1000x807.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators - Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Cladius pectinicornis Roseslug sawflies make leaves look toasted. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358289443736-OTUUTF4APJVFOGRR3DSB/rosesaw4_larva-1000x650.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators - Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Cladius pectinicornis Not much left after the curled rose sawfly finishes a leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358289583039-4ZMZO64EBBU1M5OCC8UR/rosesaw7-1000x836.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators - Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Cladius pectinicornis It's easy to see how the curled rose sawfly got its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358289680427-CAXOAICU09NTA8Z7YWWB/sawfly-adult-1000x513.jpg Current Issue - Rosie defoliators - Roseslug sawfly, Endelomyia aethiops, Curled rose sawfly, Allantus cinctus, and Cladius pectinicornis Adult sawflies are tiny wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/st-marys-survivors-cicadas-of-brood-xix monthly 0.5 2016-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466055934-CR5XJ2FUZCMU1246ZC2T/holes-1500x984.jpg Current Issue - St. Mary's survivors – Cicadas of Brood XIX Earth riddled with holes in springtime is a sign of an impending cicada emergence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466214546-6RPNZVYEX2KSVJ39LI1N/exuvia-1000x2055.jpg Current Issue - St. Mary's survivors – Cicadas of Brood XIX Shed cicada skins, called exuviae, decorate trees and shrubs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466272119-GZXY7I8Y72N9EVB0N8C2/mating-pair-1500x984.jpg Current Issue - St. Mary's survivors – Cicadas of Brood XIX Singing the right song seemed to pay off for this happy guy. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/slug-of-the-week-leopard-slug-ilimax-maximusi monthly 0.5 2021-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358961901392-LCGD2MLNHHX2J5MX6030/slugdamage-1500x1073.jpg Current Issue - Slug of the week: Leopard slug, Limax maximus Shredded pansies are the work of nocturnal feeding by slugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962073434-K7USS51TOOFQ2WSAOGHK/slugeggs-600x406.jpg Current Issue - Slug of the week: Leopard slug, Limax maximus Slugs often lay eggs in batches under wood or leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962169405-CWVAJI7OKI70ESWQC7CH/slugtrails-1500x1115.jpg Current Issue - Slug of the week: Leopard slug, Limax maximus A fallen slice of cucumber is surrounded by slug trails in the morning. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/aphids-and-their-guests-missing-link monthly 0.5 2021-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965338480-WDXZGIPSEDK9CN42SYEH/honeydew2.jpg Current Issue - Aphids and their guests Tiny liquid jewels of honeydew adorn the leaves of aphid-infested plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965476661-LYPYBSSSJS6QX4SJPR5E/waspandaphid.jpg Current Issue - Aphids and their guests A beneficial parasitic wasp stops by a leaf for a quick carbohydrate fix. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965540633-E5XXFBXH8WAN1L9J23UN/sootymold3.jpg Current Issue - Aphids and their guests Honeydew serves as the substrate for an ugly leaf-coating fungus called sooty mold. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/dead-flies-seed-corn-maggot-idelia-platurai monthly 0.5 2021-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359231871865-MHC6BNVZAD2Q5J3HO5CJ/seedcorn-1000x1204.jpg Current Issue - Dead flies - seed corn maggot, Delia platura Death of the seed corn maggot on a lofty perch ensures that fungal spores will be widely distributed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359231948986-590DLHRGC7OC8P8DSQSW/seedcorn-root-damage-1000x1171.jpg Current Issue - Dead flies - seed corn maggot, Delia platura Roots of seedlings can be destroyed by seed corn maggots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359232088758-2G2PD621JP8158F4GTIH/seed-corn-maggot-600x623.jpg Current Issue - Dead flies - seed corn maggot, Delia platura Translucent seed corn maggots infest seeds in wet springs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359232204597-ETL4AY3JVU87LCNFWP0U/SeedCornMaggotAdult_Fungi_PShrewsbury-1500x911.jpg Current Issue - Dead flies - seed corn maggot, Delia platura Dead seed corn maggot adults stuck to the tip of a tree branch. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/gall-darn-it-gall-insects-on-hickory-oak-and-elm-iphylloxera-caryaecaulis-andricus-palustris-colopha-ulmicolai monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359308471736-YKUTD8Q8MRORFXRDNUZZ/hickoryphyllox-1000x755.jpg Current Issue - Gall darn it! Gall insects on hickory, oak, and elm, <i>Phylloxera caryaecaulis, Andricus palustris, Colopha ulmicola</i> Petioles and leaf veins are favorite site for galls on hickory. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359308590495-SDVKLW7UKTUK1T292HVS/oakcynip2-1000x736.jpg Current Issue - Gall darn it! Gall insects on hickory, oak, and elm, <i>Phylloxera caryaecaulis, Andricus palustris, Colopha ulmicola</i> Succulent marble-shaped galls on pin oaks are made by a wasp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359308743186-9ALT1JUUGOGI26BDSMBO/cynipidchew-1000x728.jpg Current Issue - Gall darn it! Gall insects on hickory, oak, and elm, <i>Phylloxera caryaecaulis, Andricus palustris, Colopha ulmicola</i> Inside the hollow oak gall the wasp chewed out of its round pupal chamber. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359308829811-SM0M6KPBE6JTUZU0QUMF/cockscomb-1000x614.jpg Current Issue - Gall darn it! Gall insects on hickory, oak, and elm, <i>Phylloxera caryaecaulis, Andricus palustris, Colopha ulmicola</i> Guess why this gall is called the cockscomb. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/28/some-move-out-others-move-in-odorous-house-ants-itapinoma-sessilei monthly 0.5 2022-04-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359401745422-I90265R3HZO9E7JVTZDA/4%3A11%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Some move out, others move in - Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile This highly attractive poison bait will bring a swift end to these ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359401873502-67VF0B1U7OXGATVLC93W/4%3A11%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Some move out, others move in - Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile Unwelcome ants receive a nasty surprise after establishing a colony in a surge protector. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359402011101-US454YGGL9L3MFC5PXMP/4%3A11%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Some move out, others move in - Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile Odorous house ants regularly tend aphids outdoors. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/the-silk-trail-eastern-tent-caterpillar-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359328902387-DFOG11N6THRZY0V1PZRS/4%3A4%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> More than 300 tiny eastern tent caterpillars may hatch from a single egg mass laid the previous year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359329042820-OX3IY2H98MQ7U1C8MFBY/4%3A4%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped by hungry tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359329162338-15BB26N4UNXPQRIX62ZD/4%3A4%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The silk trail - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/return-of-spring-and-mason-bees-iosmia-spi monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359222821134-TXBTAGCEQ8WSOAAO42LB/3%3A28%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Return of spring and mason bees, <i>Osmia sp.<i> Mason bee larvae consume pollen cakes prepared by their mother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359222911531-01AANCRY6UEK9VL9FDTH/3%3A28%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Return of spring and mason bees, <i>Osmia sp.<i> Male mason bees guard their mates from interlopers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359222972243-XAPQICMT9N9AIL1KG7T5/3%3A28%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Return of spring and mason bees, <i>Osmia sp.<i> Suitable accommodations for mason bees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/the-wake-up-call-for-stink-bugs-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359225855745-YIPZM6U9GECK6LVSSVUK/3%3A21%3A11.jpg Current Issue - The wake up call for stink bugs - <i>Halyomorpha halys<i> Dead stink bugs in my wood pile indicate that not all stinkers survived the winter. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/wax-on-wax-off-wax-scale-iceroplastes-spi monthly 0.5 2018-07-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358967956870-UF9Y8C1ZVRVPF9HAXMSR/3%3A14%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Wax on, wax off: Wax scale, <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> This many wax scales make up an un-jolly holly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358968038063-3L80Y9RAYMU6KWVEKN9S/3%3A14%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Wax on, wax off: Wax scale, <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> Beneath the white wax is the small reddish scale insect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358968143701-DWOHABQXB15K942RI2OJ/3%3A14%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Wax on, wax off: Wax scale, <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> For obvious reasons young scales are called cameos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358968310270-CD78WUI202UWGOSWLFQ9/3%3A14%3A11+4th.jpg Current Issue - Wax on, wax off: Wax scale, <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> Sooty mold is a sure sign of a honeydew producer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/stingless-bees-in-belize-tribe-meliponini monthly 0.5 2019-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358899949166-IUT8NG2V956TCNXF51P9/2%3A21%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, Meliponini A waxy, horn-shapd entrance allows workers to keep out unwanted visitors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358900135569-LJQMO8D42YIZV6S9IFIK/2%3A21%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, Meliponini Workers gather nectar and pollen from many beautiful tropical plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/7a79qcdrwx4m7lt8vroas00ml0hu8q monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358199963907-QO88BOV62KKD42LQ24DO/2%3A14%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - If you be my body guard, I will be your pal - <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants and bullhorn Acacias Specialized glands at the leaf's base produce nectar for ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358200234597-1CJ6M3QI2N4KODL5LLJN/2%3A14%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - If you be my body guard, I will be your pal - <i>Pseudomyrmex</i> ants and bullhorn Acacias Small holes in the thorn allow ants to enter and exit. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/11/jungle-raiders-army-ants-ieciton-spi monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357950898625-J5P60WKSRF5PUB28W0QC/2%3A7%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders - Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.<i> Can these jaws close suture a wound? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357950998201-S7L8Y3L695KHQCY4GUQH/2%3A7%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders - Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.<i> You bet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357951105400-O919REXTLAHWUXS01AMS/2%3A7%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Jungle raiders - Army ants, <i>Eciton sp.<i> A night time trip to the outhouse can be especially exciting when army ants set up a bivouac inside. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/you-make-me-feel-like-dancin-tarantulas-brachypelma-sp monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357325695638-HVJ3JEYTCTGIX7RVNU6U/1%3A31%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - You make me feel like dancin' - Tarantulas, <i>Brachypelma sp.<i> Powerful fangs are used to capture and immobilize prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357325981328-O0SL7V3RJ4ZKVFRXAXOH/1%3A31%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - You make me feel like dancin' - Tarantulas, <i>Brachypelma sp.<i> This large tarantula was living in a burrow beneath a stone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357326169744-WD66SQHZJRLHD2BSOV9K/1%3A31%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - You make me feel like dancin' - Tarantulas, <i>Brachypelma sp.<i> After receiving a minor bite from this large tarantula, a gardener takes a closer look. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/wiwi-gardeners-leafcutter-ants-atta-sp monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357150804581-FQBKQ97JBCT33MGZFKXB/1%3A24%3A11.png Current Issue - Wiwi gardeners - Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta sp.<i> Leafcutters don't leave much behind when defoliating favored plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357151393892-ZOY3QLPKSCP9UAWFB7II/1%3A24%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Wiwi gardeners - Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta sp.<i> Jaws of leafcutter ant soldiers can open wounds. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357151494414-4IJKCYWXITKVJ3GBF6EC/1%3A24%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Wiwi gardeners - Leafcutter ants, <i>Atta sp.<i> Ventilation shafts cool the underground ant colony and provide for the exchange of gasses. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/images-of-sphinxes-and-hummingbirds-sphingidae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357170454479-FX2WQJKHL8MCRL7B0XGY/1%3A17%3A11+1st.jpg Current Issue - Images of sphinxes and hummingbirds - <i>Sphingidae<i> The Virginia creeper sphinx uses its long proboscis to sip nectar. Photo credit Joan Armistead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357170776737-W1NN4ONXUX7ZIG2HEAW9/1%3A17%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Images of sphinxes and hummingbirds - <i>Sphingidae<i> A Pandorus sphinx rests on a hydrangea. Photo credit Cindy Motsko. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357171223591-U852MY72WPWOQ4RMPKP4/1%3A17%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Images of sphinxes and hummingbirds - <i>Sphingidae<i> Sphingid caterpillars are called hornworms for obvious reasons. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/pantry-raid-indian-meal-moth-plodia-interpunctella monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357182311110-0PF96GUYY0YH924DUZ60/1st.png Current Issue - Pantry raid - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Adult Indian meal moths like these two stuck in a pheromone trap often flutter about pantries and cupboards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357182537694-PWSK6JRTA7MB6WFTOTMJ/1%3A10%3A11+2nd.png Current Issue - Pantry raid - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Meal moth caterpillars excavate seeds and generate scores of pellets of frass, a polite term for insect excrement. Frass is often a good sign of a meal moth infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357182742268-7KJSUGQ1KH7NP1PA4WH2/1%3A10%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Pantry raid - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Strands of silk on the inside of food containers are another clue of a meal moth infestation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357182987164-SRLYWGNRV4PMPSSNLGU9/1%3A10%3A11+4th.png Current Issue - Pantry raid - Indian meal moth, <i>Plodia interpunctella<i> Indian meal moth caterpillars can chew through plastic bags of grain, seeds, and fruit. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/tinsel-and-the-christmas-spider monthly 0.5 2013-06-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356986129511-G80Q8FMJ4JBPSCJQW727/1st.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider Legends of spiders, tinsel, and Christmas trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356986674005-NEH1DU1MLF4551N8BGHB/1%3A3%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider In the warmth of a home, spiderlings may soon hatch from this egg sac and decorate the tree with silk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356986951922-FE8A6FIIJTP1IHL2ULJE/1%3A3%3A11+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider It's not hard to imagine why shimmering tinsel conjures thoughts of beautiful spider webs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356987072012-0VVV3N4QXVO167DWG70Y/1%3A3%3A11+4th.jpg Current Issue - Tinsel and the Christmas spider Spider sacs deck the hollies like tiny ornaments. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/the-gift-of-the-manti-european-praying-mantid-mantis-religiosa monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357509627535-8KK261B31XCF2JPQNGW3/12%3A20%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - The gift of the Manti - European praying mantid, <i>Mantis religiosa<i> This brown egg case or ootheca contains scores of eggs that will survive the winter and hatch in the spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357509876952-CJH2LTDGPTFN40W18S7H/12%3A20%3A10+2nd.png Current Issue - The gift of the Manti - European praying mantid, <i>Mantis religiosa<i> Our praying mantis, Manti, takes a stroll http://ww.bugoftheweek.com/BugOfWeek_38.html on a holly shortly before laying her eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/green-is-good-holly-berry-midge-asphondylia-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357347103626-8CQ19B0503ITK203ZTPE/12%3A13%3A10+1st.jpg Current Issue - Green is good - Holly berry midge, <i>Asphondylia ilicicola<i> Green berries are a sign of holly berry midge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357347507528-GEFOWBRPOCYUQ9XJ004K/12%3A13%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Green is good - Holly berry midge, <i>Asphondylia ilicicola<i> The yellow larva of the holly berry midge lives in relative safety inside a green holly berry. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/holiday-miners-native-holly-leafminer-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357344685134-4HUNRZZIEIYZYWOGAWUJ/12%3A11%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Holiday miners - Native holly leafminer, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Snakelike galleries are a sure sign of native holy leaf miners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357344854142-GIE34NSQLNW90PT3D1O1/12%3A11%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Holiday miners - Native holly leafminer, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Peeling back the leaf surface reveals the tiny yellow holly leaf miner larva feeding in the gallery below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357345047358-VVRZILOWD84U57QA4PLT/12%3A11%3A06+3rd+round+2.jpg Current Issue - Holiday miners - Native holly leafminer, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Feeding punctures on the leaf surface may cause leaves to curl. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357345189366-J0T9Z36SXHVTC474K8EV/12%3A11%3A06+3rd+round+4th.jpg Current Issue - Holiday miners - Native holly leafminer, <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Adult holly leafminers resemble small houseflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/flocked-hollies-cottony-camellia-scale-pulvinaria-floccifera monthly 0.5 2021-11-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687694971-U97JTRA83U212GC8N7NI/11%3A29%3A10+1st.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hollies - Cottony camellia scale, Pulvinaria floccifera Beneath the hollies' leaves are decorative surprises. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687782219-5YBMOK91WX43GJ0PT60F/11%3A29%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hollies - Cottony camellia scale, Pulvinaria floccifera Flat camellia scale nymphs line the mid-vein near empty waxy egg cases from which they hatched. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687960963-9IUDSOXY2HHVQ68PA9M6/11%3A29%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Flocked hollies - Cottony camellia scale, Pulvinaria floccifera Honeydew produced by the scales forms a substrate for sooty mold fungus that cloaks the leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/rain-tree-surprise-golden-rain-tree-bug-jadera-haematoloma monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357596625300-SBPEOT9CIY78P8Z1XIV2/11%3A15%3A10+1st.jpg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise - Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma<i> This grove of golden rain trees serves dinner for thousands of holden rain tree bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357596954996-TQ2ZFW5UMCTRJQIBBT15/11%3A15%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise - Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma<i> Golden rain tree is an interesting landscape plant with bright yellow blossoms in summer and interesting brown seedpods in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357597300473-X3DOUOOAY78EZ7S3POLH/11%3A15%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Rain tree surprise - Golden rain tree bug, <i>Jadera haematoloma<i> Nymphs of the golden rain tree bug suck nutrients from seeds within the papery pods. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/mallow-on-the-menu-for-the-scentless-plant-bug-niesthrea-lousianica monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357535212442-AHQ7CJHO8W6YFYNUHCEH/11%3A1%3A10+1st.jpg Current Issue - Mallow on the menu for the scentless plant bug, <i>Niesthrea lousianica<i> Stripes and bold patterns are definitely "in" this season for Niesthrea. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2010/10/25/vidsbugs-in-orange-and-black-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi-milkweed-tiger-moth-ieuchaetes-eglei monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2010/10/18/link-and-vid-aposematic-autumn-moths-yellow-colored-scape-moth-icisseps-fulvicollisi-and-ailanthus-webworm-iatteva-aureai monthly 0.5 2021-03-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541295334-1UGMU43XKGRF0SSDHYLC/ermine-moth-1940x988.jpg Current Issue - Aposematic autumn moths: Yellow-collared scape moth, Cisseps fulvicollis, and Ermine moth, Atteva aurea Scales on the ermine moth's wings resemble a royal robe. Image: Paula Shrewsbury https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541481456-DIQ1902AOHU2ITWLZBJ1/yellowscape-1888x1568.jpg Current Issue - Aposematic autumn moths: Yellow-collared scape moth, Cisseps fulvicollis, and Ermine moth, Atteva aurea The beautiful yellow-collared scape moth is a bold day time flier. Photo: Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2010/10/11/video-hide-and-seek-in-the-meadow-jagged-ambush-bug-iphymatai-sp-and-the-camouflaged-looper-isynclora-aeratai monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363543108496-CMXVZ6JXQU5R9EK09N8K/ambush-2160x1608.jpg Current Issue - Hide and seek in the meadow - Jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata</i> sp. and the camouflaged looper <i>Synclora aerata</i> Look closely and you will see the ambush bug's beak inserted beneath the wasp's mouthparts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363543209554-PVNZNB01C1965J2YEU98/ambush13-1473x1077.jpg Current Issue - Hide and seek in the meadow - Jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata</i> sp. and the camouflaged looper <i>Synclora aerata</i> White and brown match the colors of boneset. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363544006255-8M0LKBV30VKJEXLBHZF0/ambush2-690x513.jpg Current Issue - Hide and seek in the meadow - Jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata</i> sp. and the camouflaged looper <i>Synclora aerata</i> Yellow, green, and brown work well on goldenrod. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363544064320-TGIYDVNC4DHNS4MOWDI5/camilooper7-1446x1008.jpg Current Issue - Hide and seek in the meadow - Jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata</i> sp. and the camouflaged looper <i>Synclora aerata</i> Can you find the camouflaged looper on this flower head? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2010/10/4/link-and-vid-save-the-leg-for-me-robber-flies-ipromachusi-sp-european-mantis-imantis-religiosai-and-jumping-spiders-salticidae monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363639414741-PKGP2BGD55O1HD90J03E/salticid-600.jpg Current Issue - Save the leg for me: Robber flies, <i>Promachus</i> sp, European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i> and jumping spiders, Salticidae Jumping spiders can be a pain in the rear-end for stink bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363639832371-3RZMLNFFSJDQ8DQ81LFC/robber-fly-600x984.jpg Current Issue - Save the leg for me: Robber flies, <i>Promachus</i> sp, European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i> and jumping spiders, Salticidae A robber fly's proboscis impales the stink bug during the gruesome death embrace. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363639890655-XKEKKMZGKS053ZBT3HZL/save-the-leg-883x1324.jpg Current Issue - Save the leg for me: Robber flies, <i>Promachus</i> sp, European mantis, <i>Mantis religiosa</i> and jumping spiders, Salticidae Save the leg for me. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/bug-vs-bug-assassinating-stink-bugs-is-the-game-of-the-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi monthly 0.5 2013-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357776054020-RZCFOTF0AD44N1QYLCSA/9%3A19%3A11+1st.png Current Issue - Bug vs. bug - Assassinating stink bugs is the game of the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus<i> Gorgeous wheel bug nymphs cluster near eggs from which they hatched before venturing off to find their first victim. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357776527517-OCQ8PTVSVL7XCAX0SLIW/9%3A19%3A11+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Bug vs. bug - Assassinating stink bugs is the game of the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus<i> Only Mother Nature and the wheel bug know the function of the wheel. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/leaf-footed-lovers-ileptoglossus-sppi monthly 0.5 2019-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767829274-FNYCKP86ZZ2N42SFJ6HW/9%3A20%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Leaf-footed lovers, Leptoglossus spp. This female leaf-footed bug enjoys a tasty corn snack while engaged with her mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768158243-0N4UV8U2JCSCHY5RXENK/9%3A20%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Leaf-footed lovers, Leptoglossus spp. Apparently a stickler for detail, the mother leaf-footed bug neatly lays her eggs in very straight rows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768269692-G56MZUA25TOWVHIWL7VV/9%3A20%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Leaf-footed lovers, Leptoglossus spp. A gaggle of leaf-footed bug nymphs dines on my pumpkin vine. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/heroes-of-the-true-bug-clan-two-spotted-stink-bug-iperillus-bioculatusi-and-spined-soldier-bug-ipodisus-maculiventrisi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357759533084-0HXBZTZJNGA8KF1MPH4E/9%3A13%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Heroes of the true bug clan: Two spotted stink bug, <i>Perillus bioculatus</i>, and spined soldier bug, <i>Podisus maculiventris</i> The Colorado potato beetle larva dangling from the beak of the adult two-spotted stink bug will soon be drained of blood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357759915513-1AMX5Z2VZRAR3A80DX5T/9%3A13%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Heroes of the true bug clan: Two spotted stink bug, <i>Perillus bioculatus</i>, and spined soldier bug, <i>Podisus maculiventris</i> The beak of a spined soldier was the last thing to pass through the mind of this caterpillar. Photo credit - John Davidson. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/10/a-gathering-storm-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357849983267-EZC09IAO4UJZ27SCA49X/9%3A6%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - A gathering storm - <i>Halyomorpha halys<i> Tomato is on the menu for this band of stink bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357850431624-5VZIWY60RJ8NYEP6R3YO/9%3A6%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A gathering storm - <i>Halyomorpha halys<i> Ornamental plants like service berry attract the brown marmorated stink bug. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/bed-bugs-in-the-news-cimex-lectularius monthly 0.5 2013-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136323665-KVBU650JQUEDOUGXXYFU/bedbug.png Current Issue - Bed bugs in the news, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Bed bug nymphs and adults chillin' in a bottle waiting to be fed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356133024356-66XW8CCHY8XK0DEUC6TN/8%3A23%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Bed bugs in the news, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Lincoln sees how tiny bed bug eggs easily avoid detection. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356133269830-ISLB40NE987RW5QDOA21/8%3A23%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Bed bugs in the news, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Guess who's been hiding in my bed? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/20/daddy-longlegs-not-the-worlds-deadliest-spider-opiliones monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356135929204-FSIPAKHMRJVPXWTSFOVJ/daddy+long+legs.png Current Issue - Daddy-longlegs, not the world's deadliest spider - <i>Opiliones<i> Harvestmen appear to have a single body region. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356050399449-KDIP9ZZZBPX6G3T7WIMG/8%3A9%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Daddy-longlegs, not the world's deadliest spider - <i>Opiliones<i> Spiders like this tarantula have two distinct body regions. Note the impressive hairy fangs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/20/swallowtail-soiree-papilio-glaucus monthly 0.5 2013-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356135612004-1HNBRD6V4RCX65DHAYPF/swallow+tail+soireee.png Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree - <i>Papilio glaucus<i> Young tiger swallowtail larvae resemble bird droppings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356038073111-IVP4LA40UQN09N1OYVD9/8%3A2%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree - <i>Papilio glaucus<i> Large creepy eyespots of older swallowtail caterpillars frighten would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356038398280-OVOFNKRRQ8L8U23T8ZPW/8%3A2%3A10+4th.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree - <i>Papilio glaucus<i> Black tiger swallowtails mimic the distasteful pipevine swallowtails. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356038951593-GX620L7NXPY8IMJDWWMN/8%3A2%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Swallowtail soiree - <i>Papilio glaucus<i> In Maryland, yellow and black tigers are the common form. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/3/blood-sweat-and-tears-mosquitoes-culicidae monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357248532690-WLLJVIC9TNGF7WDV8KX1/culexraft_676.png Current Issue - Blood, sweat, and tears – Mosquitoes, Culicidae Hundreds of larvae will hatch from three egg rafts floating on the surface of the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357248693669-3OD3D1IBLCMR01J78ZUX/albofeed2-600.png Current Issue - Blood, sweat, and tears – Mosquitoes, Culicidae Yikes! This Asian tiger better pull out before it explodes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/beetle-or-bee-green-june-beetle-icotinus-nitidai monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357595130964-FTZ26VU5N4TMJUN1ZDB4/greenjbad1s_500.png Current Issue - Beetle or Bee? Green June Beetle, <i>Cotinus nitida</i> Green June beetles are sometimes found on flowers and fruit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357595289787-3TQRP4K7QON7AGLM1RM0/greenjbgrubs_500.png Current Issue - Beetle or Bee? Green June Beetle, <i>Cotinus nitida</i> A Green June beetle grub wriggles across my driveway on its back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/founding-mothers-ipolistes-dominulusi-missing-video-and-links monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357679295462-42TNGUA9JJQS8VGQ7API/polistes-flowerpot-600.png Current Issue - Founding mothers - <i>Polistes dominulus</i> The hollow log beneath the flowerpot is the perfect spot for a paper wasp's nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357679664437-2X1QVVB781IGYGWVP0VU/polistesguard-300.jpg Current Issue - Founding mothers - <i>Polistes dominulus</i> A guard keeps a watchful eye on the bug guy. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/friendly-soldiers-soldier-beetles-ichauliognathusi-spp-missing-video-and-link monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767964469-WJJFSWINDIKW36KY8KR5/soldier-beetle-600.png Current Issue - Friendly soldiers – Soldier beetles, <i>Chauliognathus</i> spp. The goldenrod leather wing, Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, is a frequent visitor to goldenrod in late summer and autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768214531-5JK7KXL2FCPW08804J1X/cantherid-larva-600.png Current Issue - Friendly soldiers – Soldier beetles, <i>Chauliognathus</i> spp. Velvety soldier beetle larvae attack many ground and plant dwelling pests. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/a-trio-of-trouble-black-legged-ticks-iixodesi-spp-american-dog-tick-idermacentor-variabilisi-and-lone-star-tick-iamblyomma-americanumimissing-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358290064044-WAADBKZ4YZXJ111KEU0R/trioticks-1024.png Current Issue - A trio of trouble – Black-legged ticks <i>Ixodes</i> spp., American dog tick <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and lone star tick <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> The two large ticks are the American dog tick (left) and the lone star tick (right_. The small tick is the black-legged tick. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358290310720-49RPWNRM3LMZ41FPPGLL/kimlymeankle3-600.png Current Issue - A trio of trouble – Black-legged ticks <i>Ixodes</i> spp., American dog tick <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and lone star tick <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> A bull's eye rash is one of the characteristic symptoms of Lyme disease. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358290373788-HA36NG7N5LWW53AE6C1Y/tickout.jpg Current Issue - A trio of trouble – Black-legged ticks <i>Ixodes</i> spp., American dog tick <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and lone star tick <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> Ticks are best removed with forceps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/turing-back-the-invasion-odorous-house-ants-itapinoma-sessilei-missing-link-and-videos monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466389804-8NHVX18161N0SGWMCEF8/ants-swarming-with-inset-600.png Current Issue - Turing back the invasion – Odorous house ants, <i>Tapinoma sessile</i> (MISSING VIDEOS) Scads of winged reproductive odorous house ants are attracted to a lamp in the entryway to an apartment. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/parasitoids-to-the-rescue-emerald-ash-borer-iagrillus-plenipennisi-and-its-assassins-ioobius-agrilii-itetrastichus-planipennisii-and-ispathius-agrilii-missing-link-and-vid monthly 0.5 2015-04-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962416882-OKVPGE4IZ23BTL8ZPQO6/trap-600.png Current Issue - Parasitoids to the rescue - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i>, and its assassins <i>Oobius agrili</i>, <i>Tetrastichus planipennisi</i>, and <i>Spathius agrili</i> Purple Barney traps hung in trees throughout Maryland will help state officials and researchers learn where EAB is and how rapidly it is spreading. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962631126-XZJ6KHWQA9J0J2Y8DMF1/2oobius-agrili-600+copy.jpg Current Issue - Parasitoids to the rescue - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i>, and its assassins <i>Oobius agrili</i>, <i>Tetrastichus planipennisi</i>, and <i>Spathius agrili</i> Tiny Oobius agrili lays her eggs in the eggs of EAB. Photo Credit: Debbie Miller, USDA FS. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962735072-4JHGAUY4RPJXVZVGNVLO/spathius-agrili-600.png Current Issue - Parasitoids to the rescue - Emerald Ash Borer, <i>Agrillus plenipennis</i>, and its assassins <i>Oobius agrili</i>, <i>Tetrastichus planipennisi</i>, and <i>Spathius agrili</i> When Spathius agrili locates an EAB larva beneath the bark, she deposits more than a dozen lethal eggs on its skin. Her youngsters consume and kill the developing EAB. Photo credit: Dr. Yang Zhong-qi https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/aphid-lions-chrysopidae-missing-link-and-video monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965774143-SHLGF0UC7ZXY618JJ9QT/tcilacewingad-600.png Current Issue - Aphid lions – Chrysopidae (MISSING VIDEO) It's obvious how the beautiful lacewing got its name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965898673-YNZI8I4W417K5BSNIH3M/tcilacewingegg-600+%281%29.png Current Issue - Aphid lions – Chrysopidae (MISSING VIDEO) Lacewing eggs are deposited at the tip of slender stalks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966003445-CVSRRUC0VK5PDVZ805TI/lwpup2-600.png Current Issue - Aphid lions – Chrysopidae (MISSING VIDEO) Lacewings pupate in silken spheres attached to the leaf's surface. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/home-invader-turned-garden-helper-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-iharmonia-axyridisi-missing-links-and-video monthly 0.5 2015-08-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359232530148-NPQIW4IOJ2JR4DKHJ70R/ladyfeasts2-600.png Current Issue - Home invader turned garden helper – Multicolored Asian lady beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Adult Harmonia beetles also enjoy aphids for dinner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359232945326-VM0ZCEMLPNMIWTHTHKML/harmonia-eggs-on-bark-600.png Current Issue - Home invader turned garden helper – Multicolored Asian lady beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Each beetle can lay hundreds of eggs each year of their lives. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2010/5/10/honeydew-list-aphididae-missing-vid-and-links monthly 0.5 2015-08-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309097392-Z10YRX2HH0IW7MP4QVF7/honeydew2-400.png Current Issue - Honeydew list - Aphididae Tiny liquid jewels of honeydew adorn the leaves of aphid-infested plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309156365-R86J5L5JCP8Z322BU7FM/wasp-and-aphid-600.png Current Issue - Honeydew list - Aphididae A beneficial parasitic wasp stops by a leaf for a quick carbohydrate fix. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309270089-ZSDWQJ920XGUMIIYASAE/sootymold-600.png Current Issue - Honeydew list - Aphididae Honeydew serves as the substrate for an ugly leaf-coating fungus called sooty mold. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/playground-ants-citronella-or-large-yellow-ants-iacanthomyops-interjectusi-and-field-ants-iformica-spi-missing-link-and-videos monthly 0.5 2014-09-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359311486209-INF37JBHHZ0ADRYCQ7L6/yellowant-600.png Current Issue - Playground ants: Citronella or Large yellow ants, <i>Acanthomyops interjectus</i>, and field ants, <i>Formica sp.</i> Winged adults of citronella ants sometimes emerge inside homes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/31/blistering-beetles-imeloe-sppi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359685993203-7M7XYA15TOUM7GX5W83M/4%3A26%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Blistering beetles - <i>Meloe spp.<i> Yellow droplets at the leg joints of the blister beetle produce blisters if they contact your skin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359686259454-KNJ63SLFWJ8Y4RP3018Y/4%3A26%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Blistering beetles - <i>Meloe spp.<i> Large blister beetles in the genus Meloe, sometimes called oil beetles, find noxious Jimson weed a tasty treat. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/beware-the-bee-fly-ibombylius-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359578783669-NPHEQ44XK2UCZE0XL1AX/4%3A19%3A10.png Current Issue - Beware the bee fly - <i>Bombylius sp.<i> Bee flies are remarkably hairy and sport an exceptionally long proboscis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/28/what-comes-in-must-go-out-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi-and-the-multicolred-asian-lady-beetles-iharmonia-axyridisi monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359395889261-NP2ACYTETD6J2FU91MHB/4%3A12%3A10.png Current Issue - What comes in must go out - Brown marmorated stink bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i>, and the multicolred Asian lady beetles, <i>Harmonia axyridis<i> Stink bugs will also collect around windows and may be easily vacuumed up and eliminated. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/get-them-when-theyre-little-eastern-tent-caterpillar-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359327343744-8UQQ2W5PZ2Y2P1I43NEW/4%3A5%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Get them when they're little - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359328229981-G1JEYIVKJEIXA5VESRAG/4%3A5%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Get them when they're little - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> More than 300 tiny eastern tent caterpillars may hatch from a single egg mass laid the previous year. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/25/lkey139m303e9zp11c9ttgygg82d9g monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359146711965-Z1I6XNVUKPWUZ1WD7GJD/3%3A22%3A10.png Current Issue - Better news for bees? - <i>Apis mellifera<i> This worker's pollen baskets are overflowing with bright orange pollen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/preserve-of-us-from-the-infection-of-dungs-rainbow-dung-beetle-iphanaeus-vindexi monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358967204741-G41JYN597T60Q1LWTMUM/3%3A15%3A10.png Current Issue - Preserve of us from "The Infection of Dungs" - Rainbow dung beetle, <i>Phanaeus vindex<i> A male rainbow dung beetle wears a remarkable horn on its head. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/ice-dams-wet-wood-and-termites-ireticulitermes-flavipesi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358961412454-R7VWQ00LAIH3FJZD2JQA/3%3A8%3A10.png Current Issue - Ice dams, wet wood, and termites - <i>Reticulitermes flavipes<i> Water overflowing plugged gutters can create wet wood allowing termites to enter you home later in spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/flies-at-the-window-imuscina-pascuorumi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358903938523-T0DMYSKK3BYQOR4XAKWN/3%3A1%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Flies at the window - <i>Muscina pascuorum<i> Flies on the windowsill signal the return of warmer days and spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358904002500-WCNGLJKIAAYD3HYQ6VVZ/3%3A1%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Flies at the window - <i>Muscina pascuorum<i> Some home invading flies dined on woodland fungi in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358904208699-AUSBI4EH3IZJC2G7MQN8/3%3A1%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Flies at the window - <i>Muscina pascuorum<i> The beautiful chicken of the woods fungus is home to many insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/10/did-you-ever-see-a-scorpion-fly-ipanorpa-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357853645880-JE291LBRI5S8XVC3T70U/2%3A1%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Did you ever see a scorpion fly? <i>Panorpa sp.<i> Face of an aardvark, tail of a scorpion, wings of a fly, what a strange creature, the scorpionfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357854059967-ERONQ1K35V4E5HJUOINT/2%3A1%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Did you ever see a scorpion fly? <i>Panorpa sp.<i> A female scorpionfly basks on a sunny sign along the forest's edge. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/nothing-could-be-fina-than-a-bug-from-carolina-carolina-mantid-stagmomantis monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357176948545-4S4ESOUWL8SPJVUMFIH7/1%3A25%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Nothing could be fina than a bug from Carolina - Carolina mantid, <i>Stagmomantis<i> Even when a bit out of focus, a mantid ootheca is easy to identify. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357177178456-VZD3M95SB3Z8PMI7ZADQ/1%3A25%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Nothing could be fina than a bug from Carolina - Carolina mantid, <i>Stagmomantis<i> Tiny mantids emerge from their egg case and hunt small insects in spring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357177369921-0YV9ZF4E8YDBHIOX80B4/1%3A25%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Nothing could be fina than a bug from Carolina - Carolina mantid, <i>Stagmomantis<i> A gorgeous Carolina mantid waits for a meal or perhaps a mate who might be a dinner guest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/gnarly-roses-rose-stem-girdler-agrilus-aurichalceus monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357169328810-9WPE0HLTLP3CEFLIMEGS/1%3A18%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Gnarly roses - Rose Stem Girdler, <i>Agrilus aurichalceus<i> The adult rose stem borer is a beautiful metallic wood boring beetle like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357169533204-NOB20JJFR3KBYNBC4RFO/1%3A18%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Gnarly roses - Rose Stem Girdler, <i>Agrilus aurichalceus<i> Swollen stems indicate trouble beneath the bark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357169824946-GJMVUB35DE0MFTRB0A5X/1%3A18%3A10+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Gnarly roses - Rose Stem Girdler, <i>Agrilus aurichalceus<i> As the borer feeds beneath the bark, it destroys vital tissues of the rose. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357169959086-1THMFT5R5G0962D6TA8H/1%3A18%3A10+4th.jpg Current Issue - Gnarly roses - Rose Stem Girdler, <i>Agrilus aurichalceus<i> Not much to look at, but the flatheaded borer larva can really damage a stem. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/11/my-what-a-remarkably-long-tail-you-have-my-dear-imegarhyssai-sp monthly 0.5 2013-06-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370973770907-3NCW0BXPXPUXWKDRQ0OE/megarhyssa-300.jpg Current Issue - My, what a remarkably long tail you have my dear - <i>Megarhyssa</i> sp. Megarhyssa inserts a remarkably long “tail” into a tree to deposit an egg on an unsuspecting host. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370974031384-DM49QDR4JW4OBUI6GWHI/mega-on-window-600.png Current Issue - My, what a remarkably long tail you have my dear - <i>Megarhyssa</i> sp. A female plans her escape to the outdoors. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/marbled-orb-weaver-araneus-marmoreus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356978759078-3TI4D1YK77XSACA28MVY/1%3A4%3A10+1st.png Current Issue - Marbled orb weaver, <i>Araneus marmoreus<i> Marbled orb weavers sometimes drop to the ground when disturbed. Photo credit: Russell Anderson https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356979554812-JPZ1O7MGFRH2AQ1EV9WZ/1%3A4%3A10+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Marbled orb weaver, <i>Araneus marmoreus<i> A marbled orb weaver rests in the venter of its web in Allison's backyard. Photo credit: Allison Elder. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/monarch-christmas-danaus-plexippus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357508613208-EOYXIGKIPZII6XGEVOEB/12%3A21%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Monarch Christmas, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> Coastal forests of pines and eucalyptus are the overwintering sites for millions of monarch butterflies in western North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357508898999-1F94AVOSID2W36AALGRW/12%3A21%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Monarch Christmas, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> In a residential section of Pacific Grove California, a small sign directs visitors to the Monarch Sanctuary. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357509111092-UIZARU7BYAK3YDUIPP8T/12%3A21%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Monarch Christmas, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> A lonely monarch was the only resident at the sanctuary during my visit in December. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357509203898-KIKY42ULNNBQRX49CM6I/12%3A21%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Monarch Christmas, <i>Danaus plexippus<i> Maps explain secrets of the monarch's migration. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/5/the-holly-and-the-wax-scale-ceroplastes-sp monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357407188213-EO2M7XK6GZZENO1PDPJ2/12%3A14%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - The holly and the wax scale - <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> This many wax scales make up an un-jolly holly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357407618044-SY953EPOEMLPKQTDRT7W/12%3A14%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the wax scale - <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> Beneath the white wax is the small reddish scale insect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357407796903-2OSMJNO6JPD7VR002877/12%3A14%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the wax scale - <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> For obvious reasons young scales are called cameos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357408193813-XJXVB4UE7RZZTWNSFOML/12%3A14%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the wax scale - <i>Ceroplastes sp.<i> Sooty mold is a sure sign of a honeydew producer. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/unhappy-christmas-tree-fivespined-engraver-ips-grandicollis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357343447489-QD8TV48430D25GGE9UT8/12%3A7%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Unhappy Christmas tree - Fivespined engraver, <i>Ips grandicollis<i> Small round holes ringed with red frass are a sign of bark beetle attack. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357343907753-9B17NW8U3YA98TKOZPWF/12%3A7%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Unhappy Christmas tree - Fivespined engraver, <i>Ips grandicollis<i> Winding galleries beneath the tree's bark are the handiwork of engraver beetle larvae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357344233417-0Q0VORIE5WNAKFM2RWU0/12%3A7%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Unhappy Christmas tree - Fivespined engraver, <i>Ips grandicollis<i> Yellow and brown needles and dying branches signaled the end for my eastern white pines. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/last-butterfly-of-the-season-variegated-fritillary-euptoieta-claudia monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687046671-Z4490JXSXHEGYWI3S0FE/11%3A30%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia<i> Basking in the late autumn sun warms the variegated fritillary's muscles prior to flight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687145792-MTCK087GZTQOWFGZIP7G/11%3A30%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia<i> Milkweeds are a favored source for nectar and pollen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357687238600-LLUQDGKQDUXETYGZEQMB/11%3A30%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Last butterfly of the season - Variegated fritillary, <i>Euptoieta claudia<i> This beautiful fritillary caterpillar received a lethal spider bite and never had a chance to form a chrysalis. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/5/its-the-wheel-thing-the-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi-missing-vid monthly 0.5 2016-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370446693406-GTUAVZXM7OQZN9DYHY3I/assaslayeggs-600.png Current Issue - It’s the wheel thing, the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> Caught in the act of laying the last eggs of autumn, this lady displays her magnificent wheel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370446767069-H4WSG55J98WPJTC8BAMU/assasin-bugs-hatching-600.png Current Issue - It’s the wheel thing, the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> Bright red abdomens and orange antennae deck out jazzy assassin bug nymphs as the hatch from their eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/its-the-wheel-thing-the-wheel-bug-arilus-cristatus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357603795450-38UJUJ7HM7MPDP7UUK1P/11%3A23%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - It's the wheel thing: the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus<i> Caught in the act of laying the last eggs of autumn, this lady displays her magnificent wheel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357604037530-J556N8ZONZREOYLJC7AM/11%3A23%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - It's the wheel thing: the wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus<i> Bright red abdomens and orange antennae deck out jazzy assassin bug nymphs as they hatch from their eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/american-rhinoceros-beetles-xyloryctes-jamaicensis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357593480646-6AAXXFPLW6O886YDLB8Y/11.16.09+1st.png Current Issue - American rhinoceros beetles, <i>Xyloryctes jamaicensis<i> A male rhinoceros beetle - what a horn! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357594102831-5K3BP3Y4GQVLNIUD5EYB/11.16.09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - American rhinoceros beetles, <i>Xyloryctes jamaicensis<i> Even with a smudge of dirt on her face this female rhinoceros beetle is still a beauty. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/capitol-spiders-mediterranean-recluse-loxosceles-rufescens monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357519606975-ISLUYT6LTF5V0PDMS1RG/11%3A2%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Capitol spiders - Mediterranean recluse, <i>Loxosceles rufescens<i> The curious violin-shaped marking on the back gives the recluse its other common name - fiddle back spider. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357519704176-ZU5CP25FZAK882JTD5SL/11%3A2%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Capitol spiders - Mediterranean recluse, <i>Loxosceles rufescens<i> Shed skins are sometimes more commonly seen than the spider itself. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2009/10/19/spooky-spiders-in-a-big-web-cob-web-spiders-ianelosimus-studiosusi monthly 0.5 2013-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541606247-4E1OZ0W6IPNGKKSQS3I4/spidertree-600.png Current Issue - Spooky spiders in a big web - Cob-web spiders, <i>Anelosimus studiosus</i> Webs of social spiders cloak a spooky tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541697278-NAKPOAW953SK4KMTOO0C/spiderbranch-600.png Current Issue - Spooky spiders in a big web - Cob-web spiders, <i>Anelosimus studiosus</i> Small webs full of victim's remains encase branches of the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541738332-I6USZX1LW6ZCZ05NFVV5/spiders-on-tree-600.png Current Issue - Spooky spiders in a big web - Cob-web spiders, <i>Anelosimus studiosus</i> Thousands of spiders large and small scurry about the webs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2009/10/12/paper-wasp-ipolistes-exclamensi monthly 0.5 2013-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363544955691-GXO5ZWR3OJVXPHB8O4Z1/paper-wasp-nest-cell-outset-700.png Current Issue - Paper wasp, <i>Polistes exclamens</i> Workers tend the nest while eggs and larvae develop inside cells. Photo: Paula Shrewsbury https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2009/10/5/vid-and-links-gimme-shelter-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363640484176-U5N6RYOUZ4DU76ICA2TO/Stinkbugs_WMREC01-600.png Current Issue - Gimme shelter - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> Brown marmorated stink bugs often aggregate in large numbers on sunny sides of buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363640699675-TMGUWHB85YU0CP6PSY9U/bmsb1-600.png Current Issue - Gimme shelter - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys</i> White bands on antennae, legs, and abdomen are characteristic for brown marmorated stink bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/unwanted-picnic-guests-yellow-jackets-ivespula-sppi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357774861521-PV9WY03ROECA80Z27XLG/9%3A28%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Unwanted picnic guests - Yellow Jackets, <i>Vespula spp.<i> In the wild yellow jackets obtain sweets from the honeydew of scale insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/devils-and-hummingbirds-hickory-horned-devil-icitheronia-regalisi-and-hummingbird-clearwing-moth-ihemaris-thysbei monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767150002-RSL5HVS55Q3SMBH36DXE/9%3A21%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Devils and hummingbirds - Hickory horned devil, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> and hummingbird clearwing moth, </i>Hemaris thysbe<i> Although it looks scary, the hickory horned devil is harmless to people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767246245-3VK3P3Z3HKZRKMSO8QA4/9%3A21%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Devils and hummingbirds - Hickory horned devil, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> and hummingbird clearwing moth, </i>Hemaris thysbe<i> The devil turns regal as a royal walnut moth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767327152-38151WOA8BN8W4LAY7B1/9%3A21%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Devils and hummingbirds - Hickory horned devil, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> and hummingbird clearwing moth, </i>Hemaris thysbe<i> This proboscis reaches nectar even in the deepest blossoms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357767435533-F0VQMQAHXGAPWMHGT6TZ/9%3A21%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Devils and hummingbirds - Hickory horned devil, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> and hummingbird clearwing moth, </i>Hemaris thysbe<i> Larvae of hummingbird moths are hornworm caterpillar similar to this one. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/diggers-and-daubers-thread-wasted-wasps-isphecidaei monthly 0.5 2013-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452165683-PYNVKUSACP8OX0IWQYN9/9%3A14%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Diggers and daubers - Thread-wasted wasps, <i>Sphecidae</i> A yellow and black mud dauber puts finishing touches on brood chambers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452230707-LGI6V4PJCYC1SVX10WY6/9%3A14%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Diggers and daubers - Thread-wasted wasps, <i>Sphecidae</i> A mating pair of digger wasps, Eremnophila aureonotata, rest on a seed head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452301138-RI737BQ0EN66XQ9QP0NH/9%3A14%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Diggers and daubers - Thread-wasted wasps, <i>Sphecidae</i> Inside the chamber made by the mud dauber wasp, pupa transform into adult wasps. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/to-sting-a-stinger-saddleback-caterpillar-acharia-stimulae-and-brachonid-wasp-cotesia-sp monthly 0.5 2015-09-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357697635101-MFGIHMIFH8IJQ76I6LSD/9%3A7%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - To sting a stinger: Saddleback caterpillar, <i>Acharia stimulae<i>, and brachonid wasp, <i>Cotesia sp.<i> Poison glands in the skin of the caterpillar prepare a potent toxin delivered by uriticating hairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357697903917-B2VFA8K0N8MRPWSISMD1/9%3A7%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - To sting a stinger: Saddleback caterpillar, <i>Acharia stimulae<i>, and brachonid wasp, <i>Cotesia sp.<i> Dozens of wasp cocoons adorn the back of this saddleback caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/27/rock-on-spider-rock-on-black-and-yellow-garden-spider-argiope-aurantia monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356645748419-TL7QFH4Y91FN26NYDD8F/8%3A31%3A09+3rd.png Current Issue - Rock on spider, rock on! - Black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia<i> Bumping into this beauty can give you quite a surprise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356645900608-0Z4LQMQI3B8K1Z1CHMKN/4th.jpg Current Issue - Rock on spider, rock on! - Black and yellow garden spider, <i>Argiope aurantia<i> A stabilimentum of heavy silk adorns the center of this web. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/27/mason-peril-parasitic-wasp-leucospis-affinis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356638886325-YR2EHU6CRPNOXFQJ8SAM/8%3A24%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Mason peril - Parasitic wasp, <i>Leucospis affinis<i> After dining on a mason bee as a larva, a male leucospid wasp escapes from a bee tube by chewing its way out. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/worldwide-webworm-fall-webworm-hyphantria-cunea monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136262093-FVY339VHOVJOT8MXMU3S/world+wide.jpg Current Issue - Worldwide webworm - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea<i> Webbed leaves at the terminals of branches, a hallmark of fall webworm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356131470641-L21B6ZWCB2KOX151Y1Z5/8%3A17%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Worldwide webworm - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea<i> Large redheaded fall webworms writhe within their web. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356131639452-I4H88NDH6P46OTW3IPNR/8%3A17%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Worldwide webworm - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea<i> A hillside near Kutztown, PA shrouded by fall webworm nests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356131918547-24D0FBJHXP54SGSUN0IG/8%3A17%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Worldwide webworm - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea<i> Newly hatched fall webworm larvae will soon bind leaves together with silk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356132085817-C2VZJVRMFEJ01SAMR03Y/8%3A17%3A09+5th.jpg Current Issue - Worldwide webworm - Fall webworm, <i>Hyphantria cunea<i> An assassin bug nymph deals death to a fall webworm caterpillar. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/heres-looking-at-you-kid-eyed-click-beetle-ialaus-oculatusi monthly 0.5 2013-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357163637844-2OP72DWCVBP1KPO950XM/eyed4-600.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid – Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i>(missing links and video) The larva of the eyed elater has powerful jaws to kill it's prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357164102758-KF6AM3Z8ECK66PBPU8FL/clickspine-600.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid – Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i>(missing links and video) The spine and notch are part of the engineering that give this beetle it's click. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357164191443-L10DJDPXABZBJQFIIMVX/eyedads-600.png Current Issue - Here’s looking at you, kid – Eyed click beetle, <i>Alaus oculatus</i>(missing links and video) False eyespots may help the eyed click beetle look scary to predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/3/mosquito-redux-culicidae-missing-videos monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357249185088-EBY0CO7GN7S64UBJH7AI/lemoneuc-600.png Current Issue - Mosquito redux - Culicidae Lemon eucalyptus is the source of a potent mosquito repellent. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/hercules-hercules-beetle-idynastes-tityusi-missing-link-and-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357596583518-U5XDD17JMTSP9S3W80XA/hercface-600.png Current Issue - Hercules: Hercules beetle, <i>Dynastes tityus</i> Is this the face only a mother could love? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357596657447-YQ5PKN9V5VDD81E5YGC8/hercjaws-600.png Current Issue - Hercules: Hercules beetle, <i>Dynastes tityus</i> Larvae use powerful jaws to gnaw decaying wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/stingers-baldfaced-hornets-idolichovespula-maculataimissing-video monthly 0.5 2013-10-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357680149264-WBBI8OWSHYS6M70DUY1Y/shannon-hive-600.png Current Issue - Stingers: Baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> Nests can be the size of beach balls and contain hundreds of hornets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357680363974-DYFMA97JFENTJFS1HE61/hive-arch-600.png Current Issue - Stingers: Baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> Elongate brood cells are enclosed by layers of paper covering the nest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357680441602-W2X9SDML0D9KBW7Z1G9L/worker-600.png Current Issue - Stingers: Baldfaced hornets, <i>Dolichovespula maculata</i> A worker adds paper to the outside of the nest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/the-pits-antlions-family-myrmeleontidae-missing-videos monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768394186-KM4RRSKUEXK7HT7JJ3GS/antlion-adult-600.png Current Issue - The pits - Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae (MISSING VIDEOS) The gorgeous adult antlion will find a mate and return to the sandy soil to deposit eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768516661-2A1DFEP6F9GF075ZC6WA/antlion-pit-600.png Current Issue - The pits - Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae (MISSING VIDEOS) Conical pits spell danger for ants and other small ground-dwelling arthropods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768626918-WSVV8GC2MMNMHKV78N8C/jaw2-600.png Current Issue - The pits - Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae (MISSING VIDEOS) Wicked jaws of the antlion larva capture victims and suck their blood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/swarming-time-honeybees-iapis-melliferai-missing-link-and-videos monthly 0.5 2020-05-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358291292666-NLRBVGARA9HMWVS6HGGE/bartsmithswarm3-600.png Current Issue - Swarming time – Honeybees, Apis mellifera Swarming bees rest at temporary perches until scouts find a permanent nest site. Even low lying shrubs are used. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358291520152-DBN941QD91RO8D5UHMVS/honeybeeonbeggertick-600.png Current Issue - Swarming time – Honeybees, Apis mellifera Gathering and transporting pollen is heavy work and a worker sips nectar to get energy needed for flight. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/aphid-peril-aphids-flower-flies-lady-beetles-missing-video-and-links monthly 0.5 2013-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466599421-DMSQD09N9IH1WZE1J0UV/tcisyrphegg-600.png Current Issue - Aphid peril – Aphids, flower flies, lady beetles (MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) The mother flower fly knows exactly where to lay her egg so junior can easily find its first meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466745870-NQ3B9BPP3Y9E1DJ758U1/flowerdnr-600.png Current Issue - Aphid peril – Aphids, flower flies, lady beetles (MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) When not hunting aphids, flower flies sip nectar and pollinate plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466816766-V9PYXJPYVYSP8D4UMO8V/ladybeetle-eggs-600.png Current Issue - Aphid peril – Aphids, flower flies, lady beetles (MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) A cluster of yellow eggs signal the arrival of lady beetle larvae and imminent peril for aphids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358466893809-QGLY9EZTJHTFWKEKHQOR/multicolored-asian-600.png Current Issue - Aphid peril – Aphids, flower flies, lady beetles (MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) A lady beetle may eat more than 1000 aphids during her lifetime. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/aphids-and-their-bodyguards-aphididae-and-formicidae monthly 0.5 2014-04-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358962964297-IJ4T8EKTQM8BWKJX993G/aphidbirths-600.png Current Issue - Aphids and their bodyguards – Aphididae and Formicidae An aphid mom multitasks by giving birth to a daughter while sucking plant sap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358963072911-U900EYKQEIKJHFRLLFP3/woollyapple350-600.png Current Issue - Aphids and their bodyguards – Aphididae and Formicidae Some aphids like the wooly apple aphid produce large amounts of fluffy wax. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358963216139-DLPEGQSZ1XN9ZIT1Z84F/antattack-800.png Current Issue - Aphids and their bodyguards – Aphididae and Formicidae A ferocious field ant prepares to attack a sneaky lady bug larva that ventured too near its flock of aphids. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/plasterer-bees-icolletes-spi-missing-link-and-video monthly 0.5 2014-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966541587-NYE8C28VUJOVPAFXPKXX/plasterer-face-600.png Current Issue - Plasterer bees, <i>Colletes sp.</i> From the safety of its burrow, a plasterer bee takes a peek at the bug geek with a camera. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966821185-MDWLF9QKLARA69F4URII/plasterer-lawn-600.png Current Issue - Plasterer bees, <i>Colletes sp.</i> With sandy soil and a little luck, you too can have hundreds of plasterer bees colonizing your lawn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966785839-LTQPCFNKS9KN21C7RLM3/pollen-load-600.png Current Issue - Plasterer bees, <i>Colletes sp.</i> With a full load of pollen on each leg, down the hole she goes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/its-clobbering-time-for-gypsy-moth-ilymantria-dispari-missing-video-and-link monthly 0.5 2020-10-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309515201-STB6AZ5OWRHSL7SFJ2GO/shothole-600.png Current Issue - It’s clobbering time for gypsy moth - Lymantria dispar Young gypsy moth caterpillars make small holes called shot holes in leaves when they feed. Later entire leaves will disappear. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309608125-RYO4T6WNOCTHXS0L8YAZ/larvae-600.png Current Issue - It’s clobbering time for gypsy moth - Lymantria dispar In recent weeks billions of tiny gypsy moth larvae like these two hatched from egg masses. Each egg mass may contain more than a thousand eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/life-and-death-down-under-garden-millipedes-order-ijulidai-and-stone-centipedes-genus-ilithobiusi monthly 0.5 2019-05-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359577822961-YRKCEDT0OKGKMEXRXAN5/4%3A20%3A09.png Current Issue - Life and death down under - Garden millipedes (Order Julida) and stone centipedes (Genus Lithobius The poison claw is a highly modified leg used by the centipede to capture and kill its prey. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/euonymus-peril-euonymus-leaf-notcher-ipryeria-sinicai monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359339409800-6AZVNXEE5LQM6AE423FZ/4%3A13%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Euonymus peril - Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica<i> Gregarious caterpillars can really rip through leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359340279896-WOMCSIT2JJ0TNGMTH1FD/4%3A13%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Euonymus peril - Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica<i> Adult moths fly in autumn and mimic wasps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359340403500-6YQ005IUZV5HWUOY3PLQ/4%3A13%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Euonymus peril - Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica<i> Larvae from brown cocoons in protected locations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359340617488-GWEYIT4K945XJ2DVZLYV/4%3A13%3A09+4th.png Current Issue - Euonymus peril - Euonymus leaf notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica<i> The euonymus leaf notcher has greatly expanded its range in six years. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/stingless-bees-in-belize-tribe-meliponini monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359223445513-PH6OJJDC0K0F52FC5IY5/3%3A30%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, Meliponini Workers guard the entrance to their colony inside a cinder block wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359223763700-UY4RJ4FU568HQ6BI83Z6/3%3A30%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, Meliponini These bees mounted a powerful attack when curious humans ventured too near. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359223925381-AE3D8MTDQI3WIBDNEDZN/3%3A30%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Stingless bees in Belize - Tribe, Meliponini Foraging workers gather nectar and pollen from many kinds of plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/romance-on-ice-winter-stoneflies-ifamily-taeniopterigidaei monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358960647453-Z1U0M6T2HNDKTBQT2FLZ/3%3A10%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Romance on ice - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Winter stoneflies are active when riverbanks are covered with snow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358960799380-87AY7VDHONDVBP0PHF6F/3%3A10%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Romance on ice - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Stonefly nymphs search for food and hide among the small stones at the bottom of streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358960983971-WDAXQ5RZ1XZX7JR0ZCEN/3%3A10%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Romance on ice - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to observe winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/the-trees-have-eyes-owl-butterflies-icaligo-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358902958500-58XUTTZME6Y9DGXAZ6PR/3%3A2%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - The trees have eyes - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> A scary eye spot adorns the wing of an owl butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358903128034-7MOFV7AF4JK0QNN4EQUN/3%3A2%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The trees have eyes - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> This small tree bears two widely separated eyes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358903253981-SFUYW0KJI24I2JHTK8AE/3%3A2%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The trees have eyes - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> Orlando wrangles a handful of gorgeous owl caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358903362978-YHAF3D74N0Y1I22TR4KE/3%3A2%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - The trees have eyes - Owl butterflies, <i>Caligo sp.<i> Dead leaf of reptile head? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/13/lanternflies-ifulgoridaei monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358098735009-0EWOOSM1J6J7URIAB4WI/2%3A16%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Lanternflies - <i>Fulgoridae<i> Can you spot the lanternfly hiding on the bark of this tree? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358098848374-SUQ7THJ64V37C189MG0F/2%3A16%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies - <i>Fulgoridae<i> Once thought to glow like fireflies, lanternflies really do not. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358099035796-8G8NAJ7WFU5QGYLIEU1R/2%3A16%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies - <i>Fulgoridae<i> When threatened, the lanternfly reveals bright red hindwings before it flies away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358099161896-TBIRPKLZ70J8C5QXJD51/2%3A16%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Lanternflies - <i>Fulgoridae<i> The alligator bug bears a crazy false face on its head to confuse or frighten predators https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/10/whips-in-xibalba-whip-spiders-iamblypygii monthly 0.5 2013-01-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357851566081-GNCO8A69HHC1ERN3MQDH/2%3A1%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba - Whip spiders, <i>Amblypygi<i> Is this limestone cavern an entrance to Xibalba? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357851764158-M1FKKLAAZ9R0B5CJVSMK/2%3A1%3A09+2nd.png Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba - Whip spiders, <i>Amblypygi<i> With legs outstretched a whip spider waits high on a cavern's wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357852597518-ACD5MMZCXQFV2AWGTBVV/2%3A1%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba - Whip spiders, <i>Amblypygi<i> Crazy long legs enable the whip spider to find food and mates and avoid predators in the darkness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357852726285-JE2NPNTCP9OW4RGBWFIZ/2%3A1%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Whips in Xibalba - Whip spiders, <i>Amblypygi<i> Once these spines get you, there may be no escape. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/red-and-green-tailed-jay-graphium-agamemnon-and-cotton-stainer-dysdercus-suturellus monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357146048117-HXWUUDER51ZLLN1X13ZI/1%3A12%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Red and green - Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainer, </i>Dysdercus suturellus<i> Colors of the tailed jay butterfly are produced by thousands of scalers on its wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357146176804-GERBGCOY2PYCEK4MKJU1/1%3A12%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Red and green - Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainer, </i>Dysdercus suturellus<i> Bright pigments obtained from plants give the cotton stainer its bright red color. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357146431835-PGLR6NGY37AV10BLPZPH/1%3A12%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Red and green - Tailed jay, <i>Graphium agamemnon</i>, and cotton stainer, </i>Dysdercus suturellus<i> Rows of tiny scales line the wings of this monarch butterfly creating the orange and black characteristics of this species. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/brown-blue-spruce-and-spruce-spider-mite-oligonychus-ununguis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356976905519-KRJ75LBSDAO0KPJLRD6Z/1%3A25%3A09+1st.png Current Issue - Brown, blue spruce and spruce spider mite, <i>Oligonychus ununguis<i> This Colorado blue spruce is anything but blue due to injury caused by spider mites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356977323284-SDP88QJUHTER3S8UGK8U/1%3A25%3A09+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Brown, blue spruce and spruce spider mite, <i>Oligonychus ununguis<i> Dwarf Alberta spruces take a real beating at the chelicerae of spider mites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356977635936-V6IV604Y77W8JDQLJ3OC/1%3A25%3A09+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Brown, blue spruce and spruce spider mite, <i>Oligonychus ununguis<i> Spruce spider mites survive winter's chill as eggs deposited on needles or stems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356977768629-V8PVG1QZMOCYBV3L9W2V/1%3A25%3A09+4th.jpg Current Issue - Brown, blue spruce and spruce spider mite, <i>Oligonychus ununguis<i> Adult spruce spider mites are less than half a millimeter in length. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/11/cooley-spruce-gall-adelgids-iadelges-cooleyii monthly 0.5 2013-06-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370972992912-LY6QEZRS9ZAX3QCWNGC7/holiday-mantid-5.jpg Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370973082823-CKFCMPHN8ASYL9QFI1BG/cooleysga-600.png Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i> Cooley spruce gall adelgids enslave the genetic machinery of the spruce tree causing it to form an abnormal, pineapple shaped home for the insect called a gall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370973205242-0RXFM54Z3A66J57LDUW8/csgaeggs-600.png Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>  On Douglas fir female Cooley spruce gall adelgids lay a dozen or more eggs in cottony masses of wax. Eggs hatch and small brown nymphs settle down to feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370973518309-BH5DLJ5OFDDH1503HXMQ/cooleysgaslice-600.png Current Issue - Cooley spruce gall adelgids, <i>Adelges cooleyi</i>  Within the gall are dozens of chambers housing spruce gall adelgid nymphs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/6/white-christmas-tree-pine-needle-scale-chionaspis-pinifoliae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357506962915-P74UUJIYW79617JZ159E/12%3A15%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - White Christmas tree - Pine needle scale, <i>Chionaspis pinifoliae<i> Pine needle scales turn this Christmas tree white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357507156063-QSCLWNI02G2RIMA6M3P4/12%3A15%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - White Christmas tree - Pine needle scale, <i>Chionaspis pinifoliae<i> Red crawlers search for a place to settle down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357507432060-0U9LJRE6UHGP1UP06ZGX/12%3A15%3A08+3rd.jpg Current Issue - White Christmas tree - Pine needle scale, <i>Chionaspis pinifoliae<i> After killing the scale, tiny wasps emerge and leave round holes in scale covers https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/tis-the-season-for-the-whitefly-the-silverleaf-whitefly-bemisia-argentifolii monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357345792758-ELJ4IIS6N54XQRW723B5/12%3A8%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly - The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> You may find a colony of whitefly nymphs on your holiday poinsettia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357346473085-UQ1Y7U2M8SK99UJNBKCT/12%3A8%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly - The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> Adult whiteflies look like tiny moths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357346816320-MDZT9U9WJFPIGT8SIA9P/12%3A8%3A08+3rd.jpg Current Issue - 'Tis the season for the whitefly - The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> Yellow patches on leaves may be a sign of whiteflies feeding below. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/big-mamma-twostriped-walkingstick-anisomorpha-buprestoides monthly 0.5 2013-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357331095608-ZWUUM79E8JB1GND85RPW/12%3A1%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Big mamma - Twostriped walkingstick, <i>Anisomorpha buprestoides<i> The female walkingstick dwarfs the male on her back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357331245192-RR2EOHKO752XH1K9XUQI/12%3A1%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Big mamma - Twostriped walkingstick, <i>Anisomorpha buprestoides<i> Walkingsticks discharge noxious secretions from this opening. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/look-but-do-not-touch-blister-beetles-epicuata-and-meloe-spp monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357598623585-JN1N3FDZM9U28IFGLZRJ/11%3A17%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Look but do not touch - Blister beetles, <i>Epicuata and Meloe spp.<i> Large blister beetles in the genus Meloe, sometimes called oil beetles, find noxious Jimson weed a tasty treat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357598797013-E1M9D100PPHXUZXS6YOY/11%3A17%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Look but do not touch - Blister beetles, <i>Epicuata and Meloe spp.<i> Epicauta blister beetles are common visitors to goldenrod. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/home-invaders-iv-attack-of-the-red-and-black-boxelder-bugs-boisea-trivittatus monthly 0.5 2014-09-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357544564842-YYP5RJ2FA7AAQQVZLEE1/11%3A10%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Home Invaders IV - Attack of the red and black, Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> Boxelder bugs sometimes aggregate by the hundreds on people's homes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357545304418-8GWDRX0S96EUT4LIJRI8/11%3A10%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Home Invaders IV - Attack of the red and black, Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> Seeds of boxelder equal dinner for boxelder bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/home-invaders-iii-fall-field-cricket-gryllus-pennsylvanicus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357537667273-BQHUBJ1GDCQOU6S68XPI/11%3A3%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Home invaders III - Fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus<i> Wings up - a male cricket chirps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357538047737-MUUX5UF5YCSDTRZIZ8ZX/11%3A3%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Home invaders III - Fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus<i> Basking in the autumn sun allows this gal to warm up. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/bugs-in-orange-and-black-iv-golden-helicon-butterfly-iheliconius-hecalei-queen-butterfly-idanaus-gilipusi-woolly-bear-caterpillar-iisia-isabellai-need-links monthly 0.5 2013-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359572750454-INZVT9GBPOJCN3D8QUCW/golden-helicon-600.png Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black IV – Golden Helicon butterfly, <i>Heliconius hecale</i>; Queen Butterfly, <i>Danaus gilipus</i>; Woolly bear caterpillar, <i>Isia isabella</i> (NEED LINKS) Golden Helicons forage on nectar and pollen in the rainforests of South America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359573181751-SDUZZH3XZ2YHPGKD8ABV/queen2-600.png Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black IV – Golden Helicon butterfly, <i>Heliconius hecale</i>; Queen Butterfly, <i>Danaus gilipus</i>; Woolly bear caterpillar, <i>Isia isabella</i> (NEED LINKS) This Queen butterfly is a champion at scaring predators away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359573618864-TQS4I0H8H3M1IA8PI6TR/queenlarv-600.png Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black IV – Golden Helicon butterfly, <i>Heliconius hecale</i>; Queen Butterfly, <i>Danaus gilipus</i>; Woolly bear caterpillar, <i>Isia isabella</i> (NEED LINKS) The gorgeous Queen caterpillar eats milkweeds and other toxic plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359573266744-P9DHZD2V2O4GPOF2MQAJ/wooly2-600.png Current Issue - Bugs in orange and black IV – Golden Helicon butterfly, <i>Heliconius hecale</i>; Queen Butterfly, <i>Danaus gilipus</i>; Woolly bear caterpillar, <i>Isia isabella</i> (NEED LINKS) Oh wooly bear, please tell me this winter will be mild. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2008/10/20/home-invaders-ii-a-real-stinker-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2019-05-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363540587674-S2S1RBGJYFE0IPSSBHBJ/stinkbug1-600.png Current Issue - Home invaders II – A real stinker, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys Brown marmorated stink bugs often aggregate in large numbers on windowsills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363540947161-11X1ZA95SVE1NITAVVGR/stinkbug2-600.png Current Issue - Home invaders II – A real stinker, Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, Halyomorpha halys White bands of antennae, legs, and abdomen are characteristic for brown marmorated stink bug. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/17/home-invaders-i-the-lesser-of-two-weevils-black-vine-weevil-iotiorhynchus-sulcatusi monthly 0.5 2013-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363541891646-CXP8BEN4GAMRZPXXUM54/bvw-larv-600.png Current Issue - Home invaders I - The lesser of two weevils? Black vine weevil, <i>Otiorhynchus sulcatus<i> Legless black vine weevil grubs can murder small trees or shrubs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542054773-NOWCO7AFF7CKPYIX8D7K/leafnotcher-600.png Current Issue - Home invaders I - The lesser of two weevils? Black vine weevil, <i>Otiorhynchus sulcatus<i> Notched leaves like these are a sure sign of weevils. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542102966-1XOIZN8IE4HESLJ5IF02/bvw-600.png Current Issue - Home invaders I - The lesser of two weevils? Black vine weevil, <i>Otiorhynchus sulcatus<i> Black vine weevils enjoy tender leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2008/10/6/link-and-vids-loopers-in-the-goldenrod-geometrids-ichlorochlamys-chloroleucariai-and-isynclorai-sp monthly 0.5 2020-10-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363545165375-OP7YOC95N900ELDXJZ20/blackberrylooper-600.png Current Issue - Loopers in the goldenrod - Geometrids, Chlorochlamys chloroleucaria and Synclora sp. The blackberry looper turns into a beautiful emerald green moth. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/red-velvet-ant-idasymutilla-occidentalisi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357770546759-JOJEVI6M3VLQQ179JIW9/9%3A29%3A08+1st.jpg Current Issue - Red velvet ant, <i>Dasymutilla occidentalis<i> Powerful jaws help the velvet ant defend itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357771511881-36OIAK1FN2B4XJIRLGTX/9%3A29%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Red velvet ant, <i>Dasymutilla occidentalis<i> Wow! With a stinger like that, no wonder she is called a "cow killer". https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/its-the-great-wedge-shaped-beetle-charlie-brown-wedge-shaped-beetles-imacrosiagon-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357772981134-V1LY9OF2H4TDOPO3AD0S/9%3A22%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - It's the Great Wedge-shaped Beetle, Charlie Brown - Wedge-shaped beetles, <i>Macrosiagon sp<i> This wedge-shaped beetle will leave a deadly surprise behind in the blossoms. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/ambush-ambush-bugs-iphymatinaei-and-crab-spiders-ithomisidaei monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357766147872-OK3E0Q6KQCNND461SJFF/9%3A15%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Ambush - Ambush bugs, <i>Phymatinae</i> and crab spiders, </i>Thomisidae<i> An ambush bug is not too cryptic on a brown flower head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357766261366-G6HQ9K9AO824G22YWZRL/9%3A15%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Ambush - Ambush bugs, <i>Phymatinae</i> and crab spiders, </i>Thomisidae<i> Ambush bugs can wait motionless for hours for prey to stray into striking distance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357766348461-O1IX0GUZTXRQ6069H4Q5/9%3A15%3A08+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Ambush - Ambush bugs, <i>Phymatinae</i> and crab spiders, </i>Thomisidae<i> With legs outstretched a stealthy crab spider waits for the kill. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/squash-bugs-anasa-tristis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357703000690-W5EC4E407BPA6E0QCCTP/9%3A8%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Squash bugs - <i>Anasa tristis<i> Squash bug nymphs huddle just after hatching from their eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357703210813-U4G0CVDQFSX0JJIRCALI/9%3A8%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Squash bugs - <i>Anasa tristis<i> Clusters of squashed bug eggs can be crushed or plucked from the plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357703402646-KXQLNAQIRSPC62TD8MV7/9%3A8%3A08+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Squash bugs - <i>Anasa tristis<i> Older squash bug nymphs turn a ghostly white. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/twiggy-walking-sticks-phasmatidae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357695764687-1REBMV09X48DB7AUT2GV/9%3A1%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Twiggy - Walking sticks, <i>Phasmatidae<i> How many walking sticks do you see? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357695922055-IR3EMF263IVTX1RVETU1/9%3A1%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Twiggy - Walking sticks, <i>Phasmatidae<i> A northern walking stick busts a pose on a tree trunk. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/27/bad-ladybugs-mexican-bean-beetles-epilachna-varivestis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356647611619-TL08DT587ZJ98UK7A3MZ/8%3A25%3A08.png Current Issue - Bad ladybugs - Mexican bean beetles, <i>Epilachna varivestis<i> When harassed by predators or entomologists. Mexican bean beetles release irritating chemicals that can turn your skin orange. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356647877533-RE8V8AF36FFKEBOWFXIK/8%3A25%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Bad ladybugs - Mexican bean beetles, <i>Epilachna varivestis<i> Mexican bean beetle eggs are laid in large clusters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356648055813-MCNDOD0DQHYKE4FF1TZG/8%3A25%3A08+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Bad ladybugs - Mexican bean beetles, <i>Epilachna varivestis<i> Bean beetle larvae are cloaked in stout spines. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/run-forest-run-fiery-searcher-calosoma-scrutator monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356138229354-F9B9D582FDPX8JTBUYC1/8%3A18%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Run, Forest, run - Fiery searcher, <i>Calosoma scrutator<i> Racing stripes along the wing margins give this beetle a fiery look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356138401752-9Q65CXX2E6DMTY3W619Q/8%3A18%3A08+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Run, Forest, run - Fiery searcher, <i>Calosoma scrutator<i> Ground beetle larvae are also important predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/grasshoppers-hit-the-beach-differential-grasshopper-melanoplus-differentialis monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136173468-HCAGVZU5EQWI64S16X8J/grasshopper.png Current Issue - Grasshoppers hit the beach - Differential grasshopper, <i>Melanoplus differentialis<i> When not at the beach, this mating pair of differential grasshoppers enjoys hanging out on herbaceous plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356129764311-HWDFD4CV4QCTDD21XCRX/8%3A11%3A8+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Grasshoppers hit the beach - Differential grasshopper, <i>Melanoplus differentialis<i> When hassled by predators on entomologists, grasshoppers regurgitate "tobacco juice", a noxious mixture of defensive chemicals derived from plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356130056979-AW5LLJZ24TK41P1H6H9L/8%3A11%3A8+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Grasshoppers hit the beach - Differential grasshopper, <i>Melanoplus differentialis<i> Differential grasshoppers were chilling on the beach last week. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/20/hummingbirds-and-sphinxes-hummingbird-moth-hemaris-thysbe-and-the-pandora-sphinx monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356135851475-CGQ04HJJXC0FKT6NPPKI/hummingbirdalex_600.png Current Issue - Hummingbirds and sphinxes - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe</i> and the </i>Pandora sphinx<i> A hummingbird moth zooms off to the next flower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356047431577-270P2VL6MTQ1SZYW0HEW/8%3A4%3A8+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Hummingbirds and sphinxes - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe</i> and the </i>Pandora sphinx<i> Sphinx moths are attracted to light and are sometimes found resting on buildings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356048462653-E35QIJKE3LYCFOFHDXYG/8%3A4%3A8+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Hummingbirds and sphinxes - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe</i> and the </i>Pandora sphinx<i> Caterpillars of hummingbird moths are called homworms for obvious reasons. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/28/parsley-and-dill-beware-black-swallowtail-ipapilio-polyxenesi monthly 0.5 2012-12-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356733932297-LI7QBGS4DIJUKZMLFQC3/blackswallowtail-300.jpg Current Issue - Parsley and dill beware – Black swallowtail, <i>Papilio polyxenes</i> (MISSING VIDEO) The black swallowtail is a common visitor to gardens and meadows. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/whos-cuckoo-cuckoo-wasps-chrysididae monthly 0.5 2013-01-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357164918326-NS4BYO54J3LX8L82TCCZ/cuckoo_600.png Current Issue - Who’s Cuckoo – Cuckoo wasps, Chrysididae(MISSING LINKS AND VIDEO) By inserting her ovipositor into the pot of a potter wasp and laying an egg, the cuckoo wasp finds food and shelter for her young. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/3/scary-eyes-polyphemus-moth-iantheraea-polyphemusi-missing-link-and-video monthly 0.5 2017-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357249647060-XMAHMYMUEUTET2YGGQCE/poly-eyes-300.jpg Current Issue - Scary eyes - Polyphemus moth, <i>Antheraea polyphemus</i> Eyespots on the wings of Polyphemus might startle a would-be predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357249878090-BQOO6R9RBCCTR8LNUWRW/poly-eggs-300.jpg Current Issue - Scary eyes - Polyphemus moth, <i>Antheraea polyphemus</i> After hatching from these eggs, and several small Polyphemus caterpillars devoured this hickory leaf. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/misery-named-the-japanese-beetle-ipopillia-japonicai-missing-videos monthly 0.5 2013-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357597416798-H0W53T3YLLJDQJMI6ZO1/jbtrap.png Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> (MISSING VIDEOS) Japanese beetle traps catch thousands of beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357597495045-OJDZ595H5V5R4FOMCSFQ/whitegrub.png Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> (MISSING VIDEOS) Japanese beetle grubs like this one thrive on roots of grass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357597622827-MTP6OEJNS5EMY22ZQAFA/jbeetleslots.png Current Issue - Misery named the Japanese beetle, <i>Popillia japonica</i> (MISSING VIDEOS) These beetles are beautiful, but create havoc for trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/enlightening-bugs-lampyridae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357766382203-RD7TTVLWNNFD1PQTOW8Y/light2_600.png Current Issue - Enlightening bugs - Lampyridae (MISSING VIDEO) Cells in the luminescent organ in the abdomen of the beetle produce light. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/discriminating-detritivores-pillbugs-isopoda monthly 0.5 2013-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358198010765-PBNMA3LXZX3CD5YSYPO7/pillbug2-600.png Current Issue - Discriminating detritivores: Pillbugs, Isopoda Pillbugs are crustaceans and more closely related to crabs than insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358198445956-URKYW15U1471CLZQ0FFB/pillbug1-600.png Current Issue - Discriminating detritivores: Pillbugs, Isopoda This ability to roll into a tight ball resembling a pill gives pillbugs their name. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/mining-goldenrod-goldenrod-leafminer-imicrorhopala-vittatai-missing-links monthly 0.5 2013-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358291799782-7ZPNPHVX2621J7LCNEF0/goldenrodmine-600.png Current Issue - Mining goldenrod - Goldenrod leafminer, <i>Microrhopala vittata</i> (MISSING LINKS) Irregular blotches are a sure sign of leafminers within the leaf. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358292061975-27YAA0HEBE51FLCFIEM4/goldenrodlmlarvae-600.png Current Issue - Mining goldenrod - Goldenrod leafminer, <i>Microrhopala vittata</i> (MISSING LINKS) Leafminer larvae scramble for a place to hide when exposed to the sunlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358292205798-SA62H8YAZA9SNE2JKOLK/goldenrodlm-600.png Current Issue - Mining goldenrod - Goldenrod leafminer, <i>Microrhopala vittata</i> (MISSING LINKS) Adult leafminers remove soft tissue and leave behind veins as they feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358292305747-967GOL1S8Z0JXVP6P5MR/goldenrodad3-600.png Current Issue - Mining goldenrod - Goldenrod leafminer, <i>Microrhopala vittata</i> (MISSING LINKS) The female leafminer deposits eggs in small batches on the underside of a leaf. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/headstands-in-the-desert-ieleodes-spi monthly 0.5 2013-01-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358467058325-1BYYIZMBV0BRW48T2S37/eleodes1-600.png Current Issue - Headstands in the desert – <i>Eleodes sp</i> This conspicuous darkling beetle looks like a tasty meal as it walks across the desert floor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358467328954-BFZF16MMVXDTPAAYLXFW/eleodes-2-600.png Current Issue - Headstands in the desert – <i>Eleodes sp</i> Eleodes stands on its head and releases irritating chemicals from its rear end to discourage would-be predators from making it meal. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/avoiding-bed-bug-blues-common-bed-bug-icimex-lectulariusi monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358963510520-IVFQXOPV7EUNOHLW1D9S/softbag-300.jpg Current Issue - Avoiding bed bug blues - Common bed bug, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> (MISSING VIDEO AND LINK) Soft luggage provides many seams and pockets for bed bugs to hide and travel home with you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358963593308-JHAPAZBNJBOR9FVOJPYI/begbugmat2-700.png Current Issue - Avoiding bed bug blues - Common bed bug, <i>Cimex lectularius</i> (MISSING VIDEO AND LINK) Bed bugs can drink four to six times their body weight in just a few moments. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/death-by-beetle-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-iharmonia-axyridisi-missing-link-and-video monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358967011005-ASALWTWQA2XPLH1H1OEF/lady-beetle-adult-600.png Current Issue - Death by beetle: Multicolored Asian lady beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> A single multicolored Asian lady beetle adult consumes dozens of aphids each day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358967134731-YEB32WXUCANC8R2R0BMC/lady-beetle-eggs-600.png Current Issue - Death by beetle: Multicolored Asian lady beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Small orange eggs indicate that lady beetle larvae will soon be at work hunting aphids. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/death-by-fly-flower-flies-hover-flies-syrphidae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359233150153-MGKEL5916420SJM0UG8E/tcisyrphegg-400.png Current Issue - Death by fly - Flower flies, hover flies, Syrphidae (MISSING VIDEO) Unsuspecting aphids face certain death when the flower fly egg hatches in a few days. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/parasites-at-the-porch-light-ichneumonid-wasps monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359337927327-F45YOYRZKCOKSRWE0WCI/4%3A7%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Parasites at the porch light - Ichneumonid wasps The large hole in this chrysalis was made by the wasp as it emerged from its host. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359338329809-SMU9E1QPPTNEL5URMGA4/4%3A7%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Parasites at the porch light - Ichneumonid wasps A beautiful ichneumonid rests on the chrysalis of a swallowtail butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/25/boxelder-bungalow-boxelder-bugs-iboisea-trivittatusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359148025020-I2Q20VLJHRAKUFV2IXIN/3%3A30%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Boxelder bungalow - Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> Maples, boxelders, and ashes surrounding this house produce a fine crop of seeds to feed thousands of boxelder bugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/return-of-the-tent-makers-eastern-tent-caterpillar-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359224459244-QZGWDJ113IESY66XZLGK/3%3A23%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Return of the tent makers - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The blossoming of forsythia is a reliable predictor of the hatching of eastern tent caterpillar eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359224621277-0S4E2IPRHRFMUG1KUMTA/3%3A23%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Return of the tent makers - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> As caterpillars grow, they construct tents on larger branches near the trunk of the tree. Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped by hungry tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359224760176-6UFBZGSIHFVZWT0VPIH9/3%3A23%3A08+3rd.png Current Issue - Return of the tent makers - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/25/hide-and-hair-carpet-beetles-ianthrenus-spi monthly 0.5 2013-01-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359144409195-L14OHM49CJYGEIY6S3K2/3%3A17%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Hide and hair, Carpet beetles, <i>Anthrenus sp.<i> Beautiful colors of the carpet beetle are created by hundreds of scales covering its back. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359145619508-H6SL0Y0DLHRBJ5AZ9AQR/3%3A17%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Hide and hair, Carpet beetles, <i>Anthrenus sp.<i> A very hairy larva of a dermestid beetle was discovered inside the decomposing carcass of a squirrel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359145841323-6VDAU2A84CSA8QGFYPBP/3%3A17%3A08+3rd.png Current Issue - Hide and hair, Carpet beetles, <i>Anthrenus sp.<i> Telltale droppings beneath a pinned specimen in an insect collection are signs of an infestation of dermestid beetles. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/who-are-you-carolina-mantids-istagmomantis-carolinai-wax-scales-iceroplastesi-and-katydids monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358959432437-01I2ZJKC3LSJOOACHSYK/3%3A3%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Who are you? Carolina mantids (<i>Stagmomantis carolina</i>), wax scales (<i>Ceroplastes</i>), and katydids A tiny Carolina mantid surveys the world atop the ootheca from which it hatched. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358959572331-CYU2PDV4K5ZTA8XSDVGE/3%3A3%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Who are you? Carolina mantids (<i>Stagmomantis carolina</i>), wax scales (<i>Ceroplastes</i>), and katydids A bevy of wax scales encrust this stem and await warm temperatures when egg production begins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358959668100-TRD4ADUU6EJQPCKJ001X/3%3A3%3A08+3rd.png Current Issue - Who are you? Carolina mantids (<i>Stagmomantis carolina</i>), wax scales (<i>Ceroplastes</i>), and katydids The immature stage of the wax scale is called a cameo for obvious reasons. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358959763596-NQ7ZQVQ6TAL82WFLQI3R/3%3A3%3A08+4th.png Current Issue - Who are you? Carolina mantids (<i>Stagmomantis carolina</i>), wax scales (<i>Ceroplastes</i>), and katydids Curious oblong discs lining the stem of this rose are the eggs of a katydid, but are sometimes mistaken as scale insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/beetlejuice-beetlejuice-beetlejuice-and-multicolored-asian-lady-beetles-iharmonia-axyridisi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358901632191-2KF87NSXEDS74UN057YR/2%3A25%3A08.png Current Issue - Beetlejuice, beetlejuice, beetlejuice, and multicolored Asian lady beetles, <i>Harmonia axyridis<i> A solution of honey and water seems just the right tonic for a thirsty lady beetle on a winter's afternoon. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/savvy-zebras-zebra-butterflies-iheliconius-charitoniusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358206049627-10UKOZV5Q0WMI66S2RIP/2%3A18%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Savvy Zebras - Zebra butterflies, <i>Heliconius charitonius<i> Passion vines sport magnificent blossoms and their leaves are food for the caterpillars of the zebra butterfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358206505345-43PJQ021MLFVP49X3S30/2%3A18%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Savvy Zebras - Zebra butterflies, <i>Heliconius charitonius<i> Zebra butterflies have excellent eyesight and patrol a regular route each day to obtain pollen from flowers along their trapline. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/13/bugs-in-love-lovebugs-and-kissin-bugs monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358096771607-NPRN2KG5338252ZDXVFI/2%3A6%3A12+1st.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Want to know more about unicorn beetles? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358097237864-QPAOE4ZJT9L2YHP6JPKJ/2%3A6%3A12+2nd.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Want to know more about wheel bugs? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358097394279-XNWEHRUL6JXS1FD2164O/2%3A6%3A12+3rd+2.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Want to know more about milkweed longhorned beetles? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358097523220-7XJV1MT8XYU62W783NYW/2%3A6%3A12+4th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Want to know more about periodical cicadas? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358097604026-5F29O507OC4941LG8YGR/2%3A6%3A12+5th+2.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Lovebugs and other bibionid flies like this one commonly feed on nectar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358097740039-6CR2B518YRYW004YUKL8/2%3A6%3A12+6th.png Current Issue - Bugs in love, lovebugs and kissin bugs Kissing bugs get their name by sucking blood from people's lips. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/11/super-bowl-sized-nest-european-hornet-ivespa-crabroi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357949974501-D49L598MM2EUJQ0LVRQA/2%3A4%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Super Bowl sized nest, European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro<i> European hornets strip bark from trees to make paper for their nests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357950132187-0MYJQGMB6S8U424ILDKN/2%3A4%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Super Bowl sized nest, European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro<i> This spectacular European hornet nest was discovered during a home renovation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/millipedes-on-steroids-giant-african-millipede-archispirostreptus-sp monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357175638275-Y15UQS2SF5HE2HGOFZ3V/1%3A21%3A08+1st.png Current Issue - Millipedes on steroids? - Giant African millipede, <i>Archispirostreptus sp.<i> Curling into a tight ball is one line of defense of the giant millipede. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357175889897-VUWBOLVD8IDIIT235KYC/1%3A21%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - Millipedes on steroids? - Giant African millipede, <i>Archispirostreptus sp.<i> Two pairs of legs on each body segment is a hallmark of the millipede. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/twas-two-weeks-after-christmas-giant-bark-aphids-longistigma-caryae monthly 0.5 2013-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356992074253-OCETP61UELKVDLSXUDSE/1%3A7%3A08.png Current Issue - 'Twas two weeks after Christmas - Giant bark aphids, <i>Longistigma caryae<i> Some adult giant bark aphids have wings and others do not. These are the largest aphids in North America. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356992429457-90XMTC4114G92AIJDCES/1%3A7%3A08+2nd.png Current Issue - 'Twas two weeks after Christmas - Giant bark aphids, <i>Longistigma caryae<i> Eggs of the giant bark aphid are the overwintering stage. They line small branches by the thousands and change from amber to black as they age. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/5/the-holly-and-ivy-a-two-part-series-this-week-ivy-and-thrips-thripidae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357409979129-66S9B8RJRTEJNIK74VCJ/12%3A17%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week, ivy and thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> This variegated ivy developed a case of holiday blues. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357411662161-QSNJFV2CIFUPL0770RUT/12%3A17%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week, ivy and thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> Brown, discolored leaves can be a sign of thrips at work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357411830987-1QHSSC0SRJ1TB4OQ8UTB/12%3A17%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week, ivy and thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> Yellow thrips nymphs sip plant fluids and leave behind dark droplets of excrement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357412100069-VZC3CVR4GI58FPB3MK62/12%3A17%3A07+4th.png Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week, ivy and thrips, <i>Thripidae<i> Adult thrips have narrow featherlike wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/the-holly-and-ivy-a-two-part-series-this-week-the-holly-and-holly-leaf-miner-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357342067588-7CP5GNN6G8NLZXGNK6FU/12%3A11%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week the holly and holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Snakelike galleries are a sure sign of holly leaf miners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357342180456-29DH1O0Y603FDXQ9P7TL/12%3A11%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week the holly and holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Peeling back the leaf surface reveals the yellow holly leaf miner larva feeding in the gallery below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357342371859-ZT097S90Q3XC9BD7G44D/12%3A11%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The Holly and Ivy: A two part series - This week the holly and holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Punctures on the leaf surface indicate where the female pierced the leaf surface to feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/starry-sky-beetle-asian-longhorned-beetle-anoplophora-glabripennis monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357329945490-OCBT3N5H78G8HJEE9WU8/12%3A3%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Starry sky beetle - Asian longhorned beetle, <i>Anoplophora glabripennis<i> White starbursts on a field of black give the starry sky beetle a.k.a, Asian longhorned beetle, one of its common name. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357330087202-K2L433KVC9TORIGN2Y5H/12%3A3%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Starry sky beetle - Asian longhorned beetle, <i>Anoplophora glabripennis<i> The enormous larva of the Asian longhorned beetle is a roundheaded borer that creates significant damage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357330233652-7ZSV7ZW0OVJMZ10WBOMW/12%3A3%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Starry sky beetle - Asian longhorned beetle, <i>Anoplophora glabripennis<i> As larvae bore beneath the bark, they kill life-giving tissues and weaken branches and trunks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357330667114-SCRV49CJH51WWW0I2RKE/12%3A3%3A07+4th.png Current Issue - Starry sky beetle - Asian longhorned beetle, <i>Anoplophora glabripennis<i> Circular exit holes mark the spot where adult borers escape from the tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/dye-in-the-desert-cochineal-insects-dactylopius-coccus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357685666313-XOUKTIB71M73HHX9DQVW/11%3A26%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Dye in the desert - Cochineal insects, <i>Dactylopius coccus Cochineal insect on a Opuntia cactus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357685779372-6NOECGW56G7E29G073VY/11%3A26%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Dye in the desert - Cochineal insects, <i>Dactylopius coccus The vivid red fluid is called cochineal red dye. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357685911915-NKBR7HNID448NDL3GBAW/11%3A26%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Dye in the desert - Cochineal insects, <i>Dactylopius coccus The vermillion color of the cochineal derives from an organic compound known as cariminic acid. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/11/theres-no-place-like-home-for-the-holidays-boxelder-bugs-iboisea-trivittatusi monthly 0.5 2013-06-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370970596624-1K6VRF1C9PCMZ8L8VUEA/box4small_300.png Current Issue - There’s no place like home for the holidays - Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> A pair of boxelder bugs will soon leave this tree to find a sheltered spot to spend the winter https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370970751504-7KLCGZZFOAOH5B6B0EHO/box1small_300.png Current Issue - There’s no place like home for the holidays - Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> On a warm November day, boxelder bugs plot the best route to enter my home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370971023090-IARWJM84U062HBPKDXMZ/boxelderinside_500.png Current Issue - There’s no place like home for the holidays - Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus</i> A boxelder bug on wall or window heralds the approaching Holiday season. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/busy-carpenters-lazy-carpenters-carpenter-bees-xylocopa-virginica monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357536547525-TPV8APKDIYRMFFXRG24Y/11%3A5%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Busy carpenters, lazy carpenters - Carpenter bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica<i> The morning dew glistens on the hairs of the yellow-faced male carpenter bee on the left and black-faced female carpenter bee on the right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357537219413-PIUZ54B6VG87QKQMIDU6/11%3A5%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Busy carpenters, lazy carpenters - Carpenter bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica<i> This large sage plant serves as a nocturnal roost for many carpenter bees. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/bugs-in-orange-and-black-iii-argus-tortoise-beetle-ichelymorpha-cassideai-oleander-caterpillar-isyntomeida-epilaisi-and-wheel-bug-iarilus-cristatusi-missing-links monthly 0.5 2013-01-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359573811604-8VKAUNBGA3KL1Y4VMAH3/convolvad_500.png Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black III – Argus tortoise beetle, <i>Chelymorpha cassidea</i>; oleander caterpillar, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> (MISSING LINKS) Perched on a leaf of morning glory, the Argus tortoise beetle takes a break between bites of its chemically-laced food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359574065194-7V9MHB1NCG9LRIUD1NAB/oleandercat_500.png Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black III – Argus tortoise beetle, <i>Chelymorpha cassidea</i>; oleander caterpillar, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> (MISSING LINKS) The oleander caterpillar looks a bit like an orange version of Cousin It from the Adams family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359574152152-LOBKN7L6KSUTDUJTR0GW/oleandermoth_500+%281%29.png Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black III – Argus tortoise beetle, <i>Chelymorpha cassidea</i>; oleander caterpillar, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> (MISSING LINKS) The beautiful polka-dot wasp moth uses an ultrasonic serenade to attract her mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359574286182-BGZ421LUDS7I8WVLJV0T/wheelbugnymphs_500.png Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black III – Argus tortoise beetle, <i>Chelymorpha cassidea</i>; oleander caterpillar, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> (MISSING LINKS) Wheel bug nymphs chill out near their egg mass before creeping away in search of tasty victims. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359574328419-WWJCYX6HFMBDCVF6TL0Q/wheelbug-adult_500.png Current Issue - Bugs in Orange and Black III – Argus tortoise beetle, <i>Chelymorpha cassidea</i>; oleander caterpillar, <i>Syntomeida epilais</i>; and wheel bug, <i>Arilus cristatus</i> (MISSING LINKS) A stout beak impales the wheel bug's victim and sucks its blood and body fluids. How gruesome! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2007/10/1/vid-bird-droppings-snake-eyes-dead-leaves-swallowtails-ipapilio-spi monthly 0.5 2017-07-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641092135-VANA0AYCS1Q47PPRO8JT/swallow-early-500.png Current Issue - Bird droppings, snake eyes, dead leaves: Swallowtails, <i>Papilio</i> spp. Young tiger swallowtail larvae resemble bird droppings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641277806-MEWIET66FF78MOKOC5OW/swallowsnakes8_500.png Current Issue - Bird droppings, snake eyes, dead leaves: Swallowtails, <i>Papilio</i> spp. Large creepy eye spots of older swallowtail caterpillars may frighten would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641335320-9UI6TQIMX2U895SNQVUO/swallow-chrys-400.png Current Issue - Bird droppings, snake eyes, dead leaves: Swallowtails, <i>Papilio</i> spp. Predators might overlook a tasty pupa inside a chrysalis disguised as a withered leaf or twig. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/have-you-ever-seen-the-rain-sharpshooters-i-oncometopia-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357765677103-8BL8KX8FYOGJ1IFK3CCO/9%3A17%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Have you ever seen the rain? Sharpshooters, <i> Oncometopia sp.<i> This little sharpshooter was the rainmaker at my outdoor brunch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357765823435-U9RYSAUTT7NB1F8EJ0F7/9%3A17%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Have you ever seen the rain? Sharpshooters, <i> Oncometopia sp.<i> The white chalky patch on the side of the shapshooter contains brochosomes. They will be used to powder the area where the sharpshooter lays her eggs. They may help protect the eggs from enemies or damaging substances. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/humble-bees-bumble-bees-bombus-sp monthly 0.5 2014-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357704242011-ZKETSCGUVA4SYEOMTJ6K/9%3A10%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Humble bees - Bumble bees, <i>Bombus sp.<i> This little bumble bee has a nice collection of pollen on her hind leg. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357704646633-V09U67E4MEGTOOIT6XHC/9%3A10%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Humble bees - Bumble bees, <i>Bombus sp.<i> Just a few dozen cells for brood and food make up this nest found insde Dave's wall. Note the pink insulation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/harlequin-hijinks-harlequin-bug-murgantia-histrionica monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357694473480-QCS96KIVN0Q4Q4O9FIB5/9%3A3%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks - Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica<i> Distinctive barrel shaped eggs colored black and white are a pretty good clue that harlequin are about. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357694697732-O1U4C49CIDW7AJEW65AO/9%3A3%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks - Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica<i> Two brightly colored harlequin bugs warn predators of their nasty flavor and send the message "don't eat me". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357694823494-1SQJ9D9V00W35OVSI4HH/9%3A3%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Harlequin hijinks - Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica<i> This poor cabbage has been probed and sucked by harlequin bugs and the distorted, shriveled leaves tell the tale. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/29/drought-borers-and-dead-trees-roundheaded-borers-cerambycidae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356816751428-964THHPR2R232BA8ZC4N/8%3A27%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Drought, borers and dead trees - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae<i> Premature fall colors and a bowed trunk are symptoms of serious problems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356817103814-134O28IZCG0KDWAB0WWT/8%3A27%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Drought, borers and dead trees - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae<i> This legless roundheaded borer larva destroyed vital, delicate tissues beneath the bark of the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356817240431-9UVZ4HXU407TR7PWKON6/8%3A27%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Drought, borers and dead trees - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae<i> The tail of the borer can be seen where the gallery disappears beneath the bark. The large brown patch beneath the bark is missing life-sustaining tissue. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356817464595-5KW6YKC8VGN8ASFZQUT8/8%3A27%3A07+4th.png Current Issue - Drought, borers and dead trees - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae<i> The beautiful red-edged saperda, a longhorned beetle, attacks many stressed landscape trees including maples. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356817643853-ZG1DDP423VCJ2I7XYEHS/8%3A27%3A07+5th.png Current Issue - Drought, borers and dead trees - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae<i> Another longhorned beetle, the roundhead apple tree borer, is a major pest of trees and shrubs in the rose family. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/pumpkins-beware-squash-vine-borer-melittia-cucurbitae monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356140895009-G9WGYESQKCJT1BG4M6SU/8%3A20%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Pumpkins beware - Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae<i> Just drought or is something nefarious behind my wilted vines? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356141118145-HKPZK2CBMYM0Z8NBE8AB/8%3A20%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Pumpkins beware - Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae<i> Tiny caterpillars will hatch from reddish eggs deposited by the female squash vine borer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356141356885-MG3HAG4OAQC2AZW5ZQ0F/8%3A20%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Pumpkins beware - Squash vine borer, <i>Melittia cucurbitae<i> A female squash vine borer takes a break between bouts of laying eggs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/they-eat-dead-things-part-ii-blow-flies-calliphoridae monthly 0.5 2013-06-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356129152076-RB1H1HDY2D1Z25XN63XX/8%3A13%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - They eat dead things, Part II - Blow flies, <i>Calliphoridae<i> Blow flies often have many stout spines and metallic coloration. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/20/they-eat-dead-things-part-i-burying-beetles-silphidae monthly 0.5 2020-06-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356044147606-CC14JHM4BQKUNE5VTBJ6/8%3A6%3A7+1st.png Current Issue - They eat dead things - Part I - Burying beetles Silphidae Nicrophorus tomentosus stops to sample a piece of meat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356044820838-XCYIQ0P4622PVS02EVLJ/8%3A6%3A7+2nd.png Current Issue - They eat dead things - Part I - Burying beetles Silphidae This unidentified Nicrophorus species could not resist the smell of dead things in the Japanese beetle trap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356045090869-0L23ZEGFVZ0B8H6FF4W7/8%3A6%3A7+3rd.png Current Issue - They eat dead things - Part I - Burying beetles Silphidae The American carrion beetle emits an awful smell from its rear end when frightened. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/28/they-steal-lives-robber-flies-ipromachus-spi monthly 0.5 2012-12-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356731795552-0ECAL3D4W35UFQNUHVXD/robbercapture_500.png Current Issue - They steal lives - Robber flies, <i>Promachus sp.</i> (MISSING VIDEO) With a bumble bee neatly tucked between it's legs, this robber fly sucks the fluids of it's victim. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356731947150-T3BBR3JUX92WDRMEOMSK/robberbumbles_500.png Current Issue - They steal lives - Robber flies, <i>Promachus sp.</i> (MISSING VIDEO) Robber fly or Bumble bee? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/crazy-redheads-redheaded-pine-sawfly-ineodiprion-leconteiimissing-video-and-links monthly 0.5 2013-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357337551748-3MCI7DA2E4GOUEUXMKO7/cocoonss_500.png Current Issue - Crazy redheads - Redheaded pine sawfly, <i>Neodiprion lecontei</i>(MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) Sawflies spend the winter inside tough cocoons beneath the pine tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357337828828-K1764BUBKN288WW41HJO/sawflyregurg1_400.png Current Issue - Crazy redheads - Redheaded pine sawfly, <i>Neodiprion lecontei</i>(MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) With an arched back and a mouthful of noxious resin, this sawfly larva is ready to put up a fight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357337937276-MGPIQGM678025ZOKQLQH/redhead1_400.png Current Issue - Crazy redheads - Redheaded pine sawfly, <i>Neodiprion lecontei</i>(MISSING VIDEO AND LINKS) Sawflies are primitive relative of bees and wasps. Large pins through their bodies really hurt. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/come-on-baby-light-my-fire-lightning-bugs-lampyridae-missing-video-and-link monthly 0.5 2013-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357681846042-2AU55WB9QTAIO2NRBI4A/lightlarvs_500.png Current Issue - Come on baby light my fire – Lightning bugs, Lampyridae (MISSING VIDEO AND LINK) The strange lightning bugs larva is a ground dwelling predator that eats snails, earthworms, and slugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357681944099-F44EN8OYE1MIUAVIADBF/lightd3s_500.png Current Issue - Come on baby light my fire – Lightning bugs, Lampyridae (MISSING VIDEO AND LINK) After a long night of flashing, lightning bugs sip water in the predawn darkness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357682185407-XUX3LMV4I8LC1HH7SS30/lightning-bug-adult-1457.jpg Current Issue - Come on baby light my fire – Lightning bugs, Lampyridae (MISSING VIDEO AND LINK) Segments at the tip of its abdomen contain cells that light-up the fireflies' world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/damsels-not-in-distress-damselflies-zygoptera-missing-links monthly 0.5 2013-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768802525-BYXWJSGP77NFB0VCKN5Z/damselnym1_500.png Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – Damselflies, Zygoptera (MISSING LINKS) Leaf-like gills on the tail of the damselfly nymph allow it to remove oxygen from the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357768995992-1C9SFOPKJLUIJRMXDFR9/jewelwings_700.png Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – Damselflies, Zygoptera (MISSING LINKS) The gorgeous ebony jewelwing is often found near small streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769038418-7CE9SFBSD5XTO4HUITCQ/enallagma_500.png Current Issue - Damsels not in distress – Damselflies, Zygoptera (MISSING LINKS) Small damselflies like this bluet often perch horizontally on vegetation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/small-dragons-dragonflies-anisoptera-missing-videos monthly 0.5 2013-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358272171176-WTZ3UV9JV0DZ86CWDV11/dragonperch-800.png Current Issue - Small Dragons – Dragonflies, Anisoptera (MISSING VIDEOS) Huge eyes and powerful legs and strong wings make this one awesome predator. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358272546630-QHHHZR8IQKQS2ADPLMVM/dragonskin-600.png Current Issue - Small Dragons – Dragonflies, Anisoptera (MISSING VIDEOS) An empty shed skin attached to a stem is all that remains of the dragonfly's life underwater. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/almost-biting-time-mosquitoes-culicidae-missing-video monthly 0.5 2013-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358464575767-1GBENE9I92X342P0CO8S/culexraft_676.png Current Issue - Almost biting time – Mosquitoes, Culicidae (MISSING VIDEO) Hundreds of larvae will hatch from three egg rafts floating on the surface of the water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358464641700-4OOJ5J3OQ9H6YJGD4GSN/mosquito_breeders_400.png Current Issue - Almost biting time – Mosquitoes, Culicidae (MISSING VIDEO) Wheelbarrows and pails filled with water are breeding sites for thousands of mosquitoes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/18/chicago-style-cicadas-imagicicada-sppi-missing-video monthly 0.5 2017-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358531397619-FL1L77S0HIXS1RAMK9KI/photo.PNG Current Issue - Chicago style cicadas – <i>Magicicada</i> spp Male cicadas vibrate a small drum-like organ called a tymbal found beneath their wings to produce a variety of calls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358531545921-LMG3RQ075F9R0VMWJM3S/molt1_400.png Current Issue - Chicago style cicadas – <i>Magicicada</i> spp One of the most precarious acts for the cicada is shedding the skeleton it wore as a nymph before dashing to the treetop. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/jersey-skeeters-tipulidae-missing-link monthly 0.5 2013-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964037169-R3R0576WHLE7ZDV3LYK3/tip1.png Current Issue - Jersey skeeters – Tipulidae Crane flies often rest in grass or on vegetation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964239800-D4XVY9T8IDPK47C8QM80/tip2.png Current Issue - Jersey skeeters – Tipulidae A mosquito this big could really do some damage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964291269-ECAGPD2ODJ1ZJILJN5T7/tiplarv.png Current Issue - Jersey skeeters – Tipulidae Crane fly larvae, called leather jackets, are found in rotting wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/24/carpenter-bees-ixylocopa-virginicaimissing-video monthly 0.5 2014-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359049339818-649NSNB425XJEMCDOR6B/woodcarp1_600.png Current Issue - Carpenter Bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Woodpeckers cause much collateral damage as they search for carpenter bees in wood. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359049771362-3EUSUSR2LZMUF0SITXLU/carppollin_600.png Current Issue - Carpenter Bees, <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Carpenter bees are important native pollinators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/boxwood-blues-ii-boxwood-psyllid-icacopsylla-buxii-missing-link monthly 0.5 2019-01-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359309846215-G191PJ63O6LFDUOARRPO/chape-box4-400.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues II - Boxwood psyllid, Cacopsylla buxi Cupped leaves are a sure sign of boxwood psyllid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310011775-UWMFHPEI650YI5JKGR2W/box-psyl-nymphs-400.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues II - Boxwood psyllid, Cacopsylla buxi A quartet of psyllid nymphs happily hunker in a cupped leaf sucking sap and making wax. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310051240-9UUF1VVTYC0HECDJBCKN/box-ads-400.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues II - Boxwood psyllid, Cacopsylla buxi A young psyllid adult rests after escaping from the skin it wore as a nymph. See the wax on the shed skin. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/31/where-have-all-the-honeybees-gone-honeybees-apis-melliferai monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359688438394-7DWJA5FYPL9Z71I9SN95/4%3A30%3A07.png Current Issue - Where have all the honeybees gone? Honeybees, <i>Apis mellifera<i> An empty hive full of honey filled comb. Is this a case of CCD? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/31/boxwood-blues-boxwood-leafminer-imonarthropalpus-flavusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359684767230-TQEWEIENMK7LNPQ2XZLH/4%3A23%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues - Boxwood leafminer, <i>Monarthropalpus flavus<i> Discolored, blistered leaves are sign of the boxwood leafminer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359684895518-3J1EVJLPRPINHTFGHRHL/4%3A23%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues - Boxwood leafminer, <i>Monarthropalpus flavus<i> With a twist and a turn the female boxwood leafminer drills a hole in the leaf, then lays an egg inside the plant's tissue. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359684995995-6K9KN5IZQH989ME5422Q/4%3A23%3A07+3rd.png Current Issue - Boxwood blues - Boxwood leafminer, <i>Monarthropalpus flavus<i> After completing development and to escape from the leaf, leafminer larvae cut windows in the lower surface. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/hairy-wanderers-eastern-tent-caterpillars-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359577049729-0DWNKI5E3EOTVZ506WFB/4%3A16%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Hairy wanderers - Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Hairy tent caterpillars devour the final bit of greenery on this small cherry tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359577470844-BQMPITRWIOAT5E1TAMM9/4%3A16%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Hairy wanderers - Eastern tent caterpillars, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Silk spun by thousands of tent caterpillars enshroud this tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/spring-leepers-jumping-spiders-ifamily-salticidaei monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359336651590-BXAEAITOZXM5T3WAX6AU/4%3A9%3A07+1st.png Current Issue - Spring leapers: Jumping spiders, <i>Family Salticidae<i> Just before jumping on my camera lens, this salticid sized me up. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359336805221-1DBR8MUEQ0CXPNYH5OOE/4%3A9%3A07+2nd.png Current Issue - Spring leapers: Jumping spiders, <i>Family Salticidae<i> Jumping spiders eat many pests like this cankerworm caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359336926349-RC28Z7PMG2J175UICRUB/4%3A9%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Spring leapers: Jumping spiders, <i>Family Salticidae<i> Red hairs on the abdomen and metallic green fangs adorn the gorgeous jumping spider from California. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/beetle-in-the-willow-imported-willow-leaf-beetle-iplagiodera-versicolorai monthly 0.5 2013-01-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326709105-52IXK6MWJIT9ADXUK8PJ/4%3A2%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Beetle in the willow - Imported willow leaf beetle, <i>Plagiodera versicolora<i> Imported willow leaf beetles munch holes in leaves of weeping willows. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326792662-Z3UO7L7MDJSEN37LOENY/4%3A2%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Beetle in the willow - Imported willow leaf beetle, <i>Plagiodera versicolora<i> A willow leaf turned upside down reveals a clutch of willow beetle eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326867341-1BL0FHUNAOH5KG1BIH0X/4%3A2%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Beetle in the willow - Imported willow leaf beetle, <i>Plagiodera versicolora<i> A small herd of willow beetle larvae skelotonize the undersurface of a leaf. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/flipping-out-eyed-elater-ialaus-oculatusi monthly 0.5 2013-01-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359225361184-9ACLJIIWPBYDHS3VJS29/3%3A26%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Flipping out - Eyed elater, <i>Alaus oculatus<i> The larva of the eyed elater has a powerful jaws to kill its prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359225449692-B1G9BX3ZQTUM7QEBUAHK/3%3A26%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Flipping out - Eyed elater, <i>Alaus oculatus<i> The spine and notch are part of the engineering that give this beetle its click. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359225554689-5OZFLXT5O7N2NKKFTL4L/3%3A26%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Flipping out - Eyed elater, <i>Alaus oculatus<i> False eyespots may help the eyed elater look scary to predators. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/faith-and-buggora-bess-beetles-iodontotaenius-disjunctusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358990596158-HOCNZ3W4WFXPVPZJ3E8T/3%3A17%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Faith and buggora - Bess beetles, <i>Odontotaenius disjunctus<i> There's always something interesting beneath a rotting log. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358990697524-YVJ1JLQ1QKEZG10HMCEI/3%3A17%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Faith and buggora - Bess beetles, <i>Odontotaenius disjunctus<i> Faith and buggora, a clan of bess beetles! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358991320278-UUWW97MCY16QO1NCZH4W/3%3A17%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Faith and buggora - Bess beetles, <i>Odontotaenius disjunctus<i> Stout jaws are used for chewing wood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/hidin-in-the-jungle-cryptic-katydids-beetles-and-mantises monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358965338398-TIV21UCWK670R4DX923W/3%3A2%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Hidin' in the jungle - Cryptic katydids, beetles, and mantises Look closely at the lichen encrusted bark where a katydid rests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966542189-E01Q00V97GPA7AR279XN/3%3A2%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Hidin' in the jungle - Cryptic katydids, beetles, and mantises Can you find the beetle in this picture? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358966712831-ZKZCJLA5NB6UJMP3268M/3%3A2%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Hidin' in the jungle - Cryptic katydids, beetles, and mantises Is this a dead leaf or a deadly leaf? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/belizean-squirt-nozzle-headed-termites-inasutitermes-spi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358204556070-GK0MR0KV6COS0K0WQGET/2%3A19%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Belizean squirt - Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.<i> Large termite nests like this one at the base of a tree contain thousands of termites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358204627050-2HWIGT8H1NQOMEAVOIGD/2%3A19%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Belizean squirt - Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.<i> Sometimes termite nests are found in trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358204725958-M82GLKMMFR8VF0QOBZPQ/2%3A19%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Belizean squirt - Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.<i> Dark trails mark the foraging routes of termites on tree trunks as they search for food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358204863537-12FXU3VH1AQEHAOY4M1U/2%3A19%3A07+4th.jpg Current Issue - Belizean squirt - Nozzle-headed termites, <i>Nasutitermes sp.<i> The termite soldier squirts defensive chemicals at enemies through the elongated snout on its head. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/11/belizean-sting-slenderbrown-scorpion-icentruroides-gracilisi monthly 0.5 2013-06-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370959091598-391HR7BR6KVEWTR9LNYA/scorp1s-600.jpg Current Issue - Belizean sting - Slenderbrown scorpion, <i>Centruroides gracilis</i> Who's that lurking in the corner of the bed frame? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370960110302-36246OR3MOJ7IX1UNZGI/scorp2s-900.jpg Current Issue - Belizean sting - Slenderbrown scorpion, <i>Centruroides gracilis</i> Scary pinchers or pedipalps are used to capture prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370960370609-QD0IZPOOS2B4NZX5D91A/scorp3s-600.jpg Current Issue - Belizean sting - Slenderbrown scorpion, <i>Centruroides gracilis</i> If this stinger gets you, you will be sending out an SOS to the world. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/dashing-through-the-snow-snow-scorpionflies-boreus-sp-1 monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357174231514-WGC8EFRC99O128R74VL8/1%3A23%3A12+1st.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow, Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.<i> On a wintry day moss makes a fine meal for a snow scorpionfly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357174639973-LST7PNH15FUP0GGO8713/1%3A23%3A12+4th.jpg Current Issue - Dashing through the snow, Snow scorpionflies, <i>Boreus sp.<i> Not snow or ice can cool romance between male and female snow scorpionflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/my-what-a-remarkably-long-tail-you-have-my-dear-megarhyssa-sp monthly 0.5 2013-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357147208175-UH179BOLPA5LC7JGM5WS/1%3A11%3A10+3rd.png Current Issue - My, what a remarkably long tail you have my dear - <i>Megarhyssa sp.<i> A female plans her escape to the outdoors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357147341189-LO8JS65MCJ3D0Q3YX215/1%3A11%3A10+1st.jpg Current Issue - My, what a remarkably long tail you have my dear - <i>Megarhyssa sp.<i> Megarhyssa inserts a remarkably long "tail" into a tree to deposit an egg on an unsuspecting host. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/the-hottest-bug-north-of-havana-cuban-laurel-thrips-gynaikothrips-ficorum monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357147952301-XDGOFRBZHSY03BG1NS9J/1%3A15%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - The hottest bug north of Havana - Cuban laurel thrips, <i>Gynaikothrips ficorum<i> Curled, off-color leaves of ficus are a sign of the Cuban laurel thrips hiding within. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357148576163-5ANOQWA4LCA3CPVTDJJV/1%3A15%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The hottest bug north of Havana - Cuban laurel thrips, <i>Gynaikothrips ficorum<i> Inside the folded leaf, thrips rasp the surface and suck nutritious plant fluids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357148793361-7AH96GWBY760VU5TK7MO/1%3A15%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The hottest bug north of Havana - Cuban laurel thrips, <i>Gynaikothrips ficorum<i> Adult thrips mill about amidst dozens of empty egg cases. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/circular-reasoning-leaf-cutter-bees-megachilidae monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356991336748-BGQ4KF5B2BRMI0XRFJIF/1%3A8%3A07+1st.jpg Current Issue - Circular reasoning - Leaf cutter bees, <i>Megachilidae<i> Small rolls of leaves packed with pollen are the brood chambers of leaf cutter bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356991413644-ZYCHM69KHO7GYIRKNVNJ/1%3A8%3A07+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Circular reasoning - Leaf cutter bees, <i>Megachilidae<i> Rose leaves are one of the favorite sources of building materials for leaf cutter bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356991657964-HI7E0SJ4C5J4TODN834Q/1%3A8%3A07+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Circular reasoning - Leaf cutter bees, <i>Megachilidae<i> A very hairy belly helps the leaf cutter bee carry a load of pollen back to the nest. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/the-gift-of-poinsettia-the-silverleaf-whitefly-bemisia-argentifolii monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357352234900-9J4FYBQ7Z4JL3EUXRG7X/12%3A18%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The gift of poinsettia. The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> Manti wishes you a Happy Holiday. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357352450268-0E2Y5LHNX2GBVGO6UEAT/12%3A18%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The gift of poinsettia. The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> You may find a colony of whiteflies like this on your holiday poinsettia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357353551923-OV8THD8Z35ZNK2KFXCUX/12%3A18%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The gift of poinsettia. The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> Adult whiteflies look like tiny moths. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357353638334-IH0SNS1S25K2U7OCZ98Z/12%3A18%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - The gift of poinsettia. The silverleaf whitefly, <i>Bemisia argentifolii<i> The large droplet of honeydews sits atop a whitefly nymph. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/the-holly-and-the-native-holly-leaf-miner-phytomyza-ilicicola monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357341105792-X6OYTQUU4T7DLHRPX7AW/12%3A11%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the native holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Snakelike galleries are a sure sign of holly leaf miners. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357341289823-7EKK3UHR78X7461S3LA8/12%3A11%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the native holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Peeling back the leaf surface reveals the yellow holly leaf miner larva feeding in the gallery below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357341730889-BLMI1XT0H8LSHOU74Q48/12%3A11%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The holly and the native holly leaf miner - <i>Phytomyza ilicicola<i> Puncture on the leaf surface indicate where the female pierced the leaf surface to feed. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/summer-hummer-hummingbird-moth-hemaris-thysbe monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357327451094-JBAMW6WE9ORW95B8XOC8/12%3A4%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Summer hummer - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe<i> The hummingbird moth sips nectar with a long proboscis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357327561926-KCK3WVUDND1UR3NVBNTN/12%3A4%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Summer hummer - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe<i> A hummingbird moth warms in the morning sun on an old log. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357327815528-Q3CRH5QFTS4WOVRR79GB/12%3A4%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Summer hummer - Hummingbird moth, <i>Hemaris thysbe<i> Honeysuckle is one of the plants consumed be caterpillars of hummingbird moths. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/waxy-ladies-hyperaspis-lady-bugs monthly 0.5 2013-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357606293022-RJLRFTZWH2OFNS6Y9TZT/11%3A27%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Waxy ladies: <i>Hyperaspis</i> ladybugs A white, waxy coat helps this ladybug larva survive attacks from would-be predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357607516759-J8IFDTSO37F0YAT181JO/11%3A27%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Waxy ladies: <i>Hyperaspis</i> ladybugs The adult Hyperaspis ladybug searches for prey near a mound of scale insects. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/hocus-pocus-silver-spotted-skipper-epargyeus-clarus monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357540265912-XTQ8CY9T2LTUFFL2PM0D/11%3A13%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus - Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyeus clarus<i> Young silver spotted skipper larvae hide in rolled margins of leaves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357540818620-WLG3DKHKNML1JATVLNF0/11%3A13%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus - Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyeus clarus<i> Adult silver spotted skippers are regular visitors to the garden. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357540956833-W7CLFQSUJX5IG63UULXY/11%3A13%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Hocus-pocus - Silver spotted skipper, <i>Epargyeus clarus<i> Large silver spotted skipper larvae web together entire leaves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2006/11/5/missing-vid-back-by-popular-demand-ladybug-ladybug-fly-away-home-the-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-harmonia-axyridis monthly 0.5 2013-04-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1365467056953-RCXWP3V3AA4G6HEJ4LL8/harmad_600.jpg Current Issue - Back by Popular Demand - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Adult multicolored Asian lady beetles may eat more than 200 aphids a day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1365467251517-LTQBJ8NX728TYYI1LBAA/harmlarv_600.jpg Current Issue - Back by Popular Demand - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Lady beetle larvae look like small alligators and are very active as they hunt prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1365467315396-6YUEWKL2XRHNBGT8Q536/harmeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - Back by Popular Demand - Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home: The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Small, lemon-yellow eggs on leaves are stems are likely to be eggs of ladybugs. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/orange-and-black-ii-milkweed-leaf-beetle-ilabidomera-clivicollisi-oleander-aphid-aphis-nerii-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi-monarch-idanaus-plexippusi-links-and-vids monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359574756951-6512IYFETO8G7CGP81YQ/mwlbad_600.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black II: Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> After a hearty meal of milkweed leaves, this beetle is ready to lay some eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359575192050-G72OT5KHYT9Y5LEHU8H6/mwaphid-600.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black II: Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> In a society where everyone is or will soon be a momma, populations of oleander aphids explode. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359575248647-GP0IYU7F82KLI1STLVG8/mwbug_300.jpg Current Issue - Orange and Black II: Milkweed leaf beetle, <i>Labidomera clivicollis</i>; Oleander aphid, <i>Aphis nerii</i>; Milkweed Bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Monarch, <i>Danaus plexippus</i> Long beaks enable nymphs of milkweed bugs to eat seeds within the milkweed pod. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/17/scary-potter-potter-wasps-eumeninae monthly 0.5 2013-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452420545-CI4E0CGZIAPNMVZZHNYX/eumen_600.jpg Current Issue - Scary Potter – Potter wasps, <i>Eumeninae</i> Potter wasps eat nectar and pollen when not throwing pots. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452582187-14B198WJ6J2TKZZ66R4Y/pot1s_600.jpg Current Issue - Scary Potter – Potter wasps, <i>Eumeninae</i> What wonders lie within this primitive diminutive piece of earthenware? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452628372-N3JB5B5LJNQI6RH9OFTP/pot3s_600.jpg Current Issue - Scary Potter – Potter wasps, <i>Eumeninae</i> Green and brown caterpillars fill the small pot. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1375452658586-53BC6GIYNP5FFCON4ZAB/pot5s_300.jpg Current Issue - Scary Potter – Potter wasps, <i>Eumeninae</i> The legless larvae of the potter wasp has a bounty of caterpillars to eat. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/3/18/beautiful-in-yellow-and-black-the-locust-borer-imegacyllene-robiniaei monthly 0.5 2016-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641581294-Q04WVE09WHE2D1R5V5RJ/eumen_600.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black - The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Black and yellow bands on this wasp warn birds and other predators to stand down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641822447-XSHUTRVMPML8MA6UCHSO/locustborerlarv_600.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black - The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Larvae of the locust borer are known as round headed borers. They make galleries beneath bark that can kill branches and sometimes entire trees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363641977584-QBRHGOSZ0M7GY6VOZVHK/locustborer_600.jpg Current Issue - Beautiful in yellow and black - The locust borer, <i>Megacyllene robiniae</i> Adult beetles exit the tree through holes in the bark cut by larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/the-lesser-ash-threat-banded-ash-clearwing-borer-ipodosesia-aureocinctai monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357772070201-L5EKIUYE0YHJ4TNV8PQK/9%3A25%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The lesser ash threat? Banded ash clearwing borer, <i>Podosesia aureocincta<i> Dead branches, poor leaf color, could this be banded ash clearwing borers? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357772268938-BQPSK0FMEPBMUPZ6RSXB/9%3A25%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The lesser ash threat? Banded ash clearwing borer, <i>Podosesia aureocincta<i> Sawdust-like frass is a good clue that banded ash clearwings are at work. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357772340536-4G56L8I067J9UG91FY6Z/9%3A25%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The lesser ash threat? Banded ash clearwing borer, <i>Podosesia aureocincta<i> The clearwing moth leaves behind a papery pupal case when it exits the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357772514880-YWXR97MZBPAAE845DGNT/9%3A25%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - The lesser ash threat? Banded ash clearwing borer, <i>Podosesia aureocincta<i> A round or oval exit hole is a sign that clearwing borers not emerald ash borer are in your tree. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/feeling-yellow-yellow-jackets-vespula-maculifrons monthly 0.5 2013-08-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357701634214-V2YKTG83P048E848ZDQ6/9%3A11%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Feeling yellow - Yellow Jackets, <i>Vespula maculifrons<i> A worker drinks carbohydrate rich honeydew from a scale insect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357702062506-SDR5FNAMNHCLGD6HXZW9/9%3A11%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Feeling yellow - Yellow Jackets, <i>Vespula maculifrons<i> Applesauce at a picnic makes a great snack for yellowjackets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357702212078-6A22REYYOSYSODEF26N7/9%3A11%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Feeling yellow - Yellow Jackets, <i>Vespula maculifrons<i> Empty brood comb and a hole in the earth are all that is left of the yellow jackets after an attack by a hungry mammal. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/a-rather-continental-hornet-european-hornet-vespa-crabra monthly 0.5 2013-10-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357691899619-IREPIOBJOTQWPVVE82P3/9%3A4%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - A rather continental hornet - European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro<i> Fallen pears are a good source of carbohydrates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357692108815-V77G7O2I9ZZUZONE0DTP/9%3A4%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A rather continental hornet - European hornet, <i>Vespa crabro<i> A lilac in my backyard loses some bark to a hungry European hornet. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/lady-in-red-velvet-ant-dasymutilla monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136059704-ZJOBZ4OXY9A60UY4IJVK/red+velvet.jpg Current Issue - Lady in red- Velvet ant, <i>Dasymutilla<i> Female velvet ants search for bumble bee nests in sandy soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356127961464-S0IUM48C3EDXT1B4YZ00/8%3A14%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Lady in red- Velvet ant, <i>Dasymutilla<i> Powerful jaws help the velvet ant defend itself. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356128057555-0F28FWB00CRP7ONZH55O/8%3A14%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Lady in red- Velvet ant, <i>Dasymutilla<i> Wow! With a stinger like that, no wonder she is called a "cow killer". https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/scorched-locust-locust-leafminer-iodontota-dorsalisi-missing-links monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357165672817-ZJO64DQAJIOLOMY4OS8Z/locustlmdam_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust Leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> Were these black locusts assaulted with a blow torch? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357165748763-ZVFJIZONW3U2TJXYE6NV/loclmeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust Leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> After laying a batch of eggs, this leafminer mama will cover them with excrement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357166025253-V8T3KPSZWKRZ7JH9YJB0/loclmpupad_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust Leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> Ready to continue the feast on locust this adult leafminer emerges from its pupal case. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357166113443-2EDNV1Q8FTYHW3VWSPEH/loclmad_600.jpg Current Issue - Scorched locust - Locust Leafminer, <i>Odontota dorsalis</i> A second generation of locust leafminers begins to eat leaves already attacked by larvae. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/shes-so-shy-brown-recluse-spider-iloxoceles-reclusaimissing-links monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357338188378-9WPDN0Z4F7YUNVQ11YW2/recluse3_600.jpg Current Issue - She's so shy - Brown recluse spider, <i>Loxoceles reclusa</i> Even when missing a couple of legs, this brown recluse had no problem capturing and subduing her prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357338405337-Q98OY62B8Z9MIB2PLII0/brownrec1_600.jpg Current Issue - She's so shy - Brown recluse spider, <i>Loxoceles reclusa</i> The fiddle-shaped mark on the back of the brown recluse is useful in identifying this species. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357338481262-CA8EN9CN5FA8ZBJF4TP0/recluseeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - She's so shy - Brown recluse spider, <i>Loxoceles reclusa</i> Hannibal, our resident brown recluse, presented us with eggs two weeks ago. We can't wait for the blessed event. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/oh-oh-oh-im-on-fire-red-imported-fire-ant-isolenopsis-invicatai monthly 0.5 2013-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357675835100-8TDK065LBYYIM6TGKY1B/bitefingers.jpg Current Issue - Oh, oh, oh, I'm on fire - Red Imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> Within seconds of poking a finger into a fire ant nest workers attack with jaws and stingers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676123691-KLD5KDJMA000EAKVMFMA/fireant_600.jpg Current Issue - Oh, oh, oh, I'm on fire - Red Imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> The fire ant anchors itself with its jaws then curls its abdomen beneath to inject its venom into the skin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676226722-FL2CWY0GTBX507Q1SUSB/bitemyleg_600.jpg Current Issue - Oh, oh, oh, I'm on fire - Red Imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> Three days after a fire ant attack my leg was red and itchy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676291461-9B7NKZGRDP8PV5O9RGWE/antmound_600.jpg Current Issue - Oh, oh, oh, I'm on fire - Red Imported fire ant, <i>Solenopsis invicata</i> Even small fire ant mounds like this one contain thousands of workers ready to defend the colony to death. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/hooray-for-the-red-white-and-blue-milkweed-longhorned-beetle-itetraopes-tetraophthalmusi-dogbane-tiger-moth-icycnia-tenerai-and-familiar-bluet-ienallagma-civilei-missing-links monthly 0.5 2013-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357682524207-5YEJCPDM9ADT5UO7R8SW/milkweedlonghorned_600.jpg Current Issue - Hooray for the red, white, and blue! Milkweed longhorned beetle, <i>Tetraopes tetraophthalmus</i>; dogbane tiger moth, <i>Cycnia tenera</i>; and familiar bluet, <i>Enallagma civile</i> When you are a milkweed longhorned beetle nothing beats dinner and a date on a milkweed plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357682941623-EE660V3C9GA2YD4UZWXC/dogbanetiger_600.jpg Current Issue - Hooray for the red, white, and blue! Milkweed longhorned beetle, <i>Tetraopes tetraophthalmus</i>; dogbane tiger moth, <i>Cycnia tenera</i>; and familiar bluet, <i>Enallagma civile</i> Don't let the white coloration fool you. This dogbane tiger moth is dangerous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357683012364-SP30GOAY5PNB5RJTXIDS/enallagma_600.jpg Current Issue - Hooray for the red, white, and blue! Milkweed longhorned beetle, <i>Tetraopes tetraophthalmus</i>; dogbane tiger moth, <i>Cycnia tenera</i>; and familiar bluet, <i>Enallagma civile</i> Abs of steel and wiry legs allow this acrobatic familiar bluet to hang out on a stem. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/widow-watch-black-widow-spider-ilatrodectus-mactensi monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769157349-KJUGDDUW4SK6F8TBA6EI/widow1_600.png Current Issue - Widow watch - Black Widow Spider, <i>Latrodectus mactens</i> This creepy black spider crawled out of a rodent hole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769239463-A9A0ELZR7VU3AMUMJUM8/widow2_600.png Current Issue - Widow watch - Black Widow Spider, <i>Latrodectus mactens</i> Bright red hour glass - shaped markings are a sure sign that this spider is a black widow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769291583-FVDAYQG8HWF9SFJGY437/widoweggs_600.png Current Issue - Widow watch - Black Widow Spider, <i>Latrodectus mactens</i> Our black widow, Angelina, recently presented us with two fine egg sacs. We are anxiously awaiting the birth of many tiny widows. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/a-royal-welcome-royal-walnut-moth-icitheronia-regalisi monthly 0.5 2013-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358272705842-R09VN9MLEO52PNFZC9CX/royalpup_600.jpg Current Issue - A royal welcome - royal walnut moth, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> This is the largest pupa I've ever seen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358273044267-T1BYP5IZAFPJUCJM757D/royalchamber_600.jpg Current Issue - A royal welcome - royal walnut moth, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> The royal walnut moth releases her pheromone to attract a mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358273220965-CBRO1F1D3AVLJXJO0SRQ/royalcouple_600.jpg Current Issue - A royal welcome - royal walnut moth, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> Female and male royal walnut moths make a regal couple indeed. Female above, male below. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358273340487-6B46OLSI1SCU9XL8CZII/royaleggs_600.jpg Current Issue - A royal welcome - royal walnut moth, <i>Citheronia regalis</i> These eggs should hatch in about a week into little hickory horned devils. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/wither-my-honey-honeylocust-plant-bug-idiaphnocoris-chlorionisi monthly 0.5 2013-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358464965512-804KSZ8BF60M7XILDKOH/hlocdam1_600.jpg Current Issue - Wither my honey - Honeylocust plant bug, <i>Diaphnocoris chlorionis</i> Withered, deformed leaves are the mark of the honeylocust plant bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465081685-N5O9GQXFC8BQR1M83YUT/honeyad_600.jpg Current Issue - Wither my honey - Honeylocust plant bug, <i>Diaphnocoris chlorionis</i> Amazing that one so tiny can cause so much damage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465183637-IQC74W3XDI7JDTGWNRRU/honeynym_600.jpg Current Issue - Wither my honey - Honeylocust plant bug, <i>Diaphnocoris chlorionis</i> A pair of plant bug nymphs cavort on a twig. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465252353-RRR09SSLWI6G1FAHGK79/honeyeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - Wither my honey - Honeylocust plant bug, <i>Diaphnocoris chlorionis</i> Tucked inside a branch these eggs will hatch next spring. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/18/the-ugly-duckling-red-spotted-purple-caterpillar-ilimenitis-arthemis-astyanaxi monthly 0.5 2013-01-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358531788449-8SJP8L30DU5P0YH4BG5G/rsp1_600.jpg Current Issue - The ugly duckling - Red-spotted purple caterpillar, <i>Limenitis arthemis astyanax</i> Is this really a disgusting bird dropping? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532012059-75XG4GI44T8QJ0X3AU8F/rsp2_600.jpg Current Issue - The ugly duckling - Red-spotted purple caterpillar, <i>Limenitis arthemis astyanax</i> Strange horns, bumps, and wet-look colors adorn the red-spotted purple caterpillar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532149794-D7WPWASQTIP8SJXGT3EE/rsp3_600.jpg Current Issue - The ugly duckling - Red-spotted purple caterpillar, <i>Limenitis arthemis astyanax</i> The chrysalis of the red-spotted purple is also camouflaged. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532297998-GF7WP0CE1WJJ1PFXXSGU/rsp4_700.jpg Current Issue - The ugly duckling - Red-spotted purple caterpillar, <i>Limenitis arthemis astyanax</i> The red-spotted purple adult is a magnificent butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/and-may-all-your-azaleas-be-white-azalea-lace-bug-istephanitis-pyrioidesi-and-friends-andromeda-lace-bug-istephanitis-takeyaii-and-hawthorn-lace-bug-icorythuca-cydoniaei monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964437618-BRLNNDM02ZY9HNFPLVAH/azaleadam_600.png Current Issue - And may all your azaleas be white - Azalea lace bug, <i>Stephanitis pyrioides</i>, and friends, Andromeda lace bug, <i>Stephanitis takeyai</i>, and hawthorn lace bug, <i>Corythuca cydoniae</i> Feeding by azalea lace bug turned leaves of this azalea snowy white. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964558958-WB1D4SGL2GCT5P5ZFPRS/androm1_600.png Current Issue - And may all your azaleas be white - Azalea lace bug, <i>Stephanitis pyrioides</i>, and friends, Andromeda lace bug, <i>Stephanitis takeyai</i>, and hawthorn lace bug, <i>Corythuca cydoniae</i> Fecal spots on the underside of leaves are a sure sign of lace bugs such as this gorgeous andromeda lace bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964641684-4M512DPRKG0KBB83YPG1/hawthorn1_600.png Current Issue - And may all your azaleas be white - Azalea lace bug, <i>Stephanitis pyrioides</i>, and friends, Andromeda lace bug, <i>Stephanitis takeyai</i>, and hawthorn lace bug, <i>Corythuca cydoniae</i> A bevy of hawthorn lace bug nymphs feast on an unfortunate leaf of cotoneaster. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/24/inch-by-inch-fall-cankerworm-ialsophila-pometariai monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359049898181-NVTUBZ9HVQC20UMHBD1B/inch1_600.jpg Current Issue - Inch by inch: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Another common name for cankerworms is inchworms. They seem to measure the world inches at a time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359050148286-3597CASI0Y233H934Z78/fcankeggs_600.jpg Current Issue - Inch by inch: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Inchworms hatched from eggs laid by female moths in winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359050334536-I61XBB9SFMM1LPS7TKVC/fcank1_600.jpg Current Issue - Inch by inch: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Fall cankerworms sport nifty skin colors of green or brown. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359050396620-5JMVT9TQXQHTHBKHTZ65/cankdam2_600.jpg Current Issue - Inch by inch: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> Cankerworms shred leaves causing a cankered appearance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359050449696-7DZD9GA37WTMSY5KFBK1/jumpcank_600.jpg Current Issue - Inch by inch: Fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria</i> A jumping spider makes a fine meal of a small cankerworm. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/field-ants-to-the-rescue-iformicai-sp-missing-link monthly 0.5 2017-01-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359233364925-C4LU78KX49QMSG47LDK7/antguard1_600.jpg Current Issue - Field ants to the rescue- <i>Formica</i> sp. A field ant shepherd guards her black bean aphid flock. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359233476553-53B0LES5V1AEKWND7TZA/antstroke2_600.jpg Current Issue - Field ants to the rescue- <i>Formica</i> sp. The ant in the center of this picture strokes the aphid with its antennae. The aphid produces a drop of honeydew in return. Sweet! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359233633897-QQHDVLZ7SU4HPK0VA4NJ/antattack1_600.jpg Current Issue - Field ants to the rescue- <i>Formica</i> sp. With jaws agape the field ant prepares to attack the ladybug intruder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359233946568-WJQMQ0JT9D3MOVLTX8AE/antattack2_600.jpg Current Issue - Field ants to the rescue- <i>Formica</i> sp. After a few moments of intense punishment, the ladybug larva dropped from the plant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/murder-and-mayhem-in-aphid-land-ladybugs-coccinellidae-flower-flies-syrphidae-and-parasitic-wasps-chalcidoidea-and-brachonidae-missing-link monthly 0.5 2014-09-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310460112-FZ6DQ9HR315C4ZNAY12T/ladylarv1_300.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae A ladybug larva sinks its jaws into a juicy rose aphid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310520761-1ZCIYQV6TIN14GD1DEIL/ladyad1_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae This Asian multicolored ladybug will turn plump, juicy aphids into dozens of beetle eggs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310672132-7ZHOT74EUCD6HC38WLI5/syrphid1_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae Flower flies don't sting but they mimic bees and wasps to gain protection from their own predators. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310895266-VR4HTQ3V6J814JS0M4R7/syrphegg_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae Flower flies know exactly where to lay eggs to ensure a meal for their young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310997972-S317FBE1USW3PORAFF1R/mummy1_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae This brown aphid mummy has a parasitic wasp inside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359310938042-8E0EASFTOWANC4COFREG/syrphlarv_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae Flower fly maggots may consume more than 1000 aphids during development. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359311193654-I8U7XUN7GAQIRJKOGF40/mummy2_600.jpg Current Issue - Murder and mayhem in aphid land: Ladybugs, Coccinellidae; Flower flies, Syrphidae; and parasitic wasps, Chalcidoidea and Brachonidae The hole in this aphid mummy was made when a lethal parasitic wasp emerged. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/30/return-of-the-gypsies-gypsy-moth-ilymantria-dispari monthly 0.5 2013-08-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359579949588-ZODFQ753HNK4IQORKQ4Z/4%3A24%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Return of the gypsies Gypsy moth - <i>Lymantria dispar<i> More than a thousand tiny caterpillars like these two may hatch from a single egg mass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359580052258-TJR9QYMFGFUGQQYWVPXI/4%3A24%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Return of the gypsies Gypsy moth - <i>Lymantria dispar<i> Forest tent caterpillars are easily distinguished from gypsy moth caterpillars by their blue and white markings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359580195040-KT2Q68T9F2HABKBMZ2JG/4%3A24%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Return of the gypsies Gypsy moth - <i>Lymantria dispar<i> Young gypsy moth caterpillars and their relatives make small holes called shot holes in leaves when they feed. Later entire leaves will disappear. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359580334192-K2YSOGZVE4WG06Y07HCB/4%3A24%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - Return of the gypsies Gypsy moth - <i>Lymantria dispar<i> This newly hatched gypsy moth larva will gain over a thousand times its present body weight before it completes its development. This is equivalent to a baby growing into an adult weighing 7000 pounds. Yikes! https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/a-wolf-in-sheeps-clothing-debris-carrying-lacewing-larvae-ichrysopidaei monthly 0.5 2013-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359333636368-RF008O6CSKU40YGNCAYK/4%3A10%3A06.jpg Current Issue - A wolf in sheep's clothing - Debris carrying lacewing larvae, <i>Chrysopidae<i> This innocent looking piece of lichen actually disguises a wolf in sheep's clothing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359333751587-4BIP902NKWC5PB60RWDD/4%3A10%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A wolf in sheep's clothing - Debris carrying lacewing larvae, <i>Chrysopidae<i> You can see the ferocious jaws of the lacewing larva beneath its coat of plant debris. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359333862560-7I3RHYE9G5L3K5FKXBQ6/4%3A10%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - A wolf in sheep's clothing - Debris carrying lacewing larvae, <i>Chrysopidae<i> Lacewing adults are active again at my porch lights, a sure sign that spring has arrived. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/27/the-sweet-smell-of-ants-citronella-or-large-yellow-ants-iacanthomyops-interjectusi monthly 0.5 2013-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326252375-NNCFZ2Y5F5I89W5HE0PM/4%3A3%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The sweet smell of ants - Citronella or Large yellow ants, <i>Acanthomyops interjectus<i> Yikes! A sofa swarming with winged insects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326322310-O61VXQRS5KTTK9D94BXM/4%3A3%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The sweet smell of ants - Citronella or Large yellow ants, <i>Acanthomyops interjectus<i> Notice the narrow waist and jointed antenna with long segments that are characteristics of ants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326382412-3YV7XBUK79TQMSXLPD0J/4%3A3%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The sweet smell of ants - Citronella or Large yellow ants, <i>Acanthomyops interjectus<i> Termites have a wide waist and antennae that look like a string of beads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359326435953-O78R9KHCFJ90B7TK9CI3/4%3A3%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - The sweet smell of ants - Citronella or Large yellow ants, <i>Acanthomyops interjectus<i> Black carpenter ants usually make their home in decaying wood outdoors but they often forage and may establish colonies inside homes. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/time-for-tents-eastern-tent-caterpillar-imalacosoma-americanumi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358989298804-J9ZUUUK9JGE7AG878JGN/3%3A20%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Time for tents - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> More than 300 tiny eastern tent caterpillars may hatch from a single egg mass laid the previous year. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358989455448-25FN9YO3371JPONDTNQX/3%3A20%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Time for tents - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> As caterpillars grow, they construct tents on larger branches near the trunk of the tree. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358989623305-X6SPL3JSDVNE20R8XL9C/3%3A20%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Time for tents - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> Small and sometimes even large trees may be stripped by hungry tent caterpillars. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358989845874-H5FR48BZMNWZPM3XKXA5/3%3A20%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - Time for tents - Eastern tent caterpillar, <i>Malacosoma americanum<i> The eastern tent caterpillar is a beautiful beast with blue stripes and patches on the side and a white stripe down the center of the back. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/what-lies-beneath-the-mulch-formosan-termite-icoptotermes-formosanusi-and-eastern-subterranean-termite-ireticulitermes-flavipesi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964218864-WYWGCKP8WAFCZLBMHMHG/3%3A13%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - What lies beneath the mulch? Formosan termite, <i>Coptotermes formosanus</i>, and Eastern subterranean termite, <i>Reticulitermes flavipes</i> Damage to a nest of Formosan subterranean termites brings hoards of workers and soldiers with dark, oval shaped heads scrambling to repair the hole. Photograph and text courtesy of USDA. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964555507-TUWWLDGAQBPVB1WE5JC9/3%3A13%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - What lies beneath the mulch? Formosan termite, <i>Coptotermes formosanus</i>, and Eastern subterranean termite, <i>Reticulitermes flavipes</i> Eastern subterranean termites foraging on a piece of wood. Notice the soldier in the center of the picture with the huge head and large, powerful jaws surrounded by worker termites. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964711075-4RXV6Q87NBWPKA73A1AW/3%3A13%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - What lies beneath the mulch? Formosan termite, <i>Coptotermes formosanus</i>, and Eastern subterranean termite, <i>Reticulitermes flavipes</i> Bags of mulch in contact with the soil may be colonized by termites. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/22/small-olympians-snow-fleas-icollembolai monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358901062704-WRWQPPKA4TUXACCT0P4Y/2%3A27%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Small Olympians - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola<i> Despite chilly feet these spidery looking springtails are active in the snow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358901180828-ALB2UL3EYWF5YRY1VLWD/2%3A27%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Small Olympians - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola<i> Long antennae may help this springtail to find food in an icy land. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358901342972-6Q8UUDPVSF9F18Q1VSUU/2%3A27%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Small Olympians - Snow fleas, <i>Collembola<i> This springtail is frozen in a miniscule glacier. His forklike furca is visible at the end of the adomen. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/turn-on-the-light-a-cockroach-delight-oriental-cockroach-iblatta-orientalisi-and-german-cockroach-iblattella-germanicai monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358202534100-ISORQOUEE8MXUJMSXX2O/2%3A20%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Turn on the light, a cockroach delight. Oriental Cockroach <i>Blatta orientalis</i> and German cockroach </i>Blattella germanica<i> These oriental roaches seem to be enjoying this tasty apple. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358202717858-CUMBUUT8Y8OUPL9TGFIY/2%3A20%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Turn on the light, a cockroach delight. Oriental Cockroach <i>Blatta orientalis</i> and German cockroach </i>Blattella germanica<i> This little German cockroach is carrying a boat load of eggs in the ootheca extending from the tip of her abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358202817793-20ZMR05A75KE47T9HNUH/2%3A20%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Turn on the light, a cockroach delight. Oriental Cockroach <i>Blatta orientalis</i> and German cockroach </i>Blattella germanica<i> Oriental cockroaches deposit their egg cases on the ground near sources of food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358203109764-PIWQMLKZJLCMZV5VCG5D/2%3A20%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - Turn on the light, a cockroach delight. Oriental Cockroach <i>Blatta orientalis</i> and German cockroach </i>Blattella germanica<i> This sticky trap is the end of the line for two hapless German roaches. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/13/beetles-roasting-on-an-open-fire-roundheaded-borers-icerambycidaei-and-darkling-beetles-itenebrionidaei monthly 0.5 2013-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358096401420-01L561UFCJOOLDRUAURH/2%3A13%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i> and Darkling beetles, </i>Tenebrionidae<i> The adult stage of a roundheaded borer is a longhorned beetle named for its very long antennae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358095913003-O4QRAH6GR22QEC5SMVZZ/2%3A13%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i> and Darkling beetles, </i>Tenebrionidae<i> Galleries like these beneath the bark of my firewood are often made by roundheaded borers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358095981985-R42F2FOXDKLBBNRGKALW/2%3A13%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i> and Darkling beetles, </i>Tenebrionidae<i> Roundheaded borers have powerful jaws but usually lack legs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358096093839-6705SVHSVTHEJK97SWV7/2%3A13%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i> and Darkling beetles, </i>Tenebrionidae<i> The adult stage of a roundheaded borer is a longhorned beetle named for its very long antennae. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358096175353-TUUNXQDW861XOLWNK83P/2%3A13%3A06+5th.jpg Current Issue - Beetles roasting on an open fire - Roundheaded borers, <i>Cerambycidae</i> and Darkling beetles, </i>Tenebrionidae<i> Although he is moving rather slow now, this darkling beetle larva will develop quickly when warmer temperatures return. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/10/whos-been-sucking-on-my-coleus-citrus-mealybug-i monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357854804030-XA48L34X165I7JX04GBX/2%3A6%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - Who's been sucking on my coleus? Citrus mealybug <i> Withered stems, shriveled leaves, and white fluff on the branches and leaves mean that this poor coleus has a bad case of citrus mealybug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357855113245-0Q6UZD8JZUX5CR5DG00Z/2%3A6%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Who's been sucking on my coleus? Citrus mealybug <i> Mealybugs cluster in the angles of branches and around buds and stems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357855358065-HZXU2V7I4OJ7QF4Z7A0K/2%3A6%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Who's been sucking on my coleus? Citrus mealybug <i> This lacewing larva has sharp sickle shaped jaws: the perfect utensils for enjoying a mealybug feast. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/ever-seen-a-stone-fly-winter-stoneflies-family-taeniopterigidae monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357172604465-Z4L1NYHNHTJIAHHQMEBF/1%3A16%3A12+1st.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Winter stoneflies are active even on chilly days in January. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357172873168-JBOIRI2783H2AYDFOE39/1%3A16%3A12+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Stonefly nymphs search for food and hide among the small stones at the bottom of streams. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357173072669-BHV7L8L4SHW2XUNO5XZQ/1%3A16%3A12+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Ever seen a stone fly? - Winter stoneflies, <i>Family Taeniopterigidae<i> Clean, fast-moving streams and rivers are excellent places to hunt winter stoneflies. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/2/the-scourge-of-the-hemlock-hemlock-wolly-adelgid-adelges-tsugae monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357185514845-VD6QWH076UG8LYR05XSG/1%3A16%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - The scourge of the hemlock - hemlock wolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae<i> Eastern hemlocks are beautiful native trees well suited for home landscapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357187413204-UX4SSXG2PIJ8609IPERI/1%3A16%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The scourge of the hemlock - hemlock wolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae<i> The hemlock woolly adelgid has killed thousands of eastern hemlocks such as these in Shenandoah National Park. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357188228278-TRZGI7RQJL1KG8TYT8GJ/1%3A16%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The scourge of the hemlock - hemlock wolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae<i> White bundles of fluffy wax are a sure sign of a woolly adelgid infestation on hemlocks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357188379706-ZY3NL1X1ZUEIP7X5S0TT/1%3A16%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - The scourge of the hemlock - hemlock wolly adelgid, <i>Adelges tsugae<i> Beneath its waxy cover the adelgid robs the hemlock of its vital reserves. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/a-moth-in-winter-the-fall-cankerworm-alsophila-pometaria monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356989510594-0NTBIR3FY8H1OEOJ7659/1%3A9%3A06+1st.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter - the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria<i> Two wingless female fall cankerworm moths bask in the January sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356990277492-4GIHT6291ZC0CRMGK819/1%3A9%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter - the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria<i> The fall cankerworm male is a good flyer and follows a scent trail to find his mate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356990894173-TGS2Y0S53ZN3CN5NPTA3/1%3A9%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - A moth in winter - the fall cankerworm, <i>Alsophila pometaria<i> The female fall cankerworm lacks functional mouthparts and does not eat. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/31/a-holiday-brunch-with-my-ants-odorous-house-ant-tapinoma-sessile monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356975530790-IB2VL20B941697FTOZSA/1%3A2%3A06+wst.jpg Current Issue - A holiday brunch with my ants. Odorous house ant, <i>Tapinoma sessile<i> In the growing season ants can be found on plants tending scale insects that produce a carbohydrate rich food called honeydew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356975713044-SN78S0PUDIMWBE0L7FME/1%3A2%3A06+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A holiday brunch with my ants. Odorous house ant, <i>Tapinoma sessile<i> In a matter of minutes workers find a drop of syrup. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356975916796-TJ2P45HOAN6ISWHEDNH9/1%3A2%3A06+3rd.jpg Current Issue - A holiday brunch with my ants. Odorous house ant, <i>Tapinoma sessile<i> It doesn't take long for many workers to follow the pheromone trail to food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356976552908-TNILH81LG797UQRCYKJB/1%3A2%3A06+4th.jpg Current Issue - A holiday brunch with my ants. Odorous house ant, <i>Tapinoma sessile<i> Workers tank up on a sweet attractant containing an insecticide that will be taken to the colony and kill other workers and the queens. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/my-what-a-long-tail-you-have-little-wasp-the-american-pelicinid-wasp-pelecinus-polyurator monthly 0.5 2013-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357336295351-0ZLNEVQL06K1KPZDS1FO/12%3A12%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - My, what a long tail you have little wasp. The American pelicinid wasp, <i>Pelecinus polyurator<i> This beautiful American pelicinid female uses her remarkably long abdomen to lay eggs on grubs in the soil. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357336557677-HNC8E6CC56JN9NXRO447/12%3A12%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - My, what a long tail you have little wasp. The American pelicinid wasp, <i>Pelecinus polyurator<i> White grub larvae such as this one are the food for the developing larva of the pelicinid wasp. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357336699225-AJ0Y0DL7IYFBKRSTGSUA/12%3A12%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - My, what a long tail you have little wasp. The American pelicinid wasp, <i>Pelecinus polyurator<i> The May beetle is the adult stage of the grub attacked by the American pelicinid wasp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/up-on-the-rooftop-click-click-click-down-through-the-chimney-with-good-polistes monthly 0.5 2013-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357326741327-CSY2VNBY7TXS04YM77V5/12%3A5%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Up on the rooftop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Polistes Paper wasp queens sometimes emerge from the chimney during the Holiday season. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357326818453-CC5A7DX6GS0YZ41A26BZ/12%3A5%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Up on the rooftop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Polistes Queens that survive the winter found small nests like this one beneath my son's tree fort. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357326961251-16507SFPEEQSFEPIQYLO/12%3A5%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Up on the rooftop, click, click, click, Down through the chimney with good Polistes Paper wasps eat nectar and many pests of plants in landscapes and gardens. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/7/red-and-black-boxelder-bugs-boisea-trivittatus monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357605640901-I81ZN745TUCW2NFIRHNA/11%3A28%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> Boxelder bugs bask on bricks on bright winter days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357605721869-68VYFHH0R1OET7W21VVA/11%3A28%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> The seeds of boxelder are one of the favorite foods of boxelder bugs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357605819136-1OGFRY5V5524KBOCDHDS/11%3A28%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Red and black, Boxelder bugs, <i>Boisea trivittatus<i> Two boxelder bugs preparing to leave the boxelder tree to find an overwintering spot. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/a-stinker-at-the-window-brown-marmorated-stink-bug-ihalyomorpha-halysi monthly 0.5 2017-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357780272281-Y0WNHJAO4KP6RTM2LB74/11%3A14%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - A stinker at the window - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys<i> Brown marmorated stink bugs often aggregate in large numbers on windowsills. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357782174861-ASSX8OTPNABA6W9W5NND/11%3A14%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - A stinker at the window - Brown Marmorated Stink Bug, <i>Halyomorpha halys<i> White bands on antennae, legs, and abdomen are characteristic for brown marmorated stink bug. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/6/dashing-caterpillars-predicting-weather-woolly-bears-ipyrrharctia-isabellai-yellow-bears-ispilosoma-virginicai-and-leopard-moths-ihypercompe-scribioniai monthly 0.5 2013-06-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370526887432-QCXPAPSG6QY1MD1B0DVL/rolled-leopardmoth-600.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather: Woolly bears, <i>Pyrrharctia Isabella</i>; yellow bears, <i>Spilosoma virginica</i>; and leopard moths, <i>Hypercompe scribionia</i> The giant Leopard moth caterpillar curls into a spiny ball when threatened. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370527091607-U79WOFNAJPX79JBVE3LY/Leopardmoth_CS.jpg Current Issue - Dashing caterpillars predicting weather: Woolly bears, <i>Pyrrharctia Isabella</i>; yellow bears, <i>Spilosoma virginica</i>; and leopard moths, <i>Hypercompe scribionia</i> The adult Leopard moth is a thing of beauty with black patterned white wings. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2005/10/31/linkorangestriped-oakworm-ianisota-senatoriai-harlequin-bug-imurgantia-histrionicai-large-milkweed-bug-ioncopeltus-fasciatusi-milkweed-tussock-moth-larva-ieuchaetes-eglei monthly 0.5 2013-06-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360036490651-VICQFPO8H40JN6TRTXV2/os_oakworm_1.jpg Current Issue - Orangestriped oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i>; Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i>; Large milkweed bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Milkweed Tussock Moth Larva, <i>Euchaetes egle</i> These orangestriped oakworm larvae are hanging out between meals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360036592567-T21MPHBRB4TG33AR4DYE/harlequin_bug_2.jpg Current Issue - Orangestriped oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i>; Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i>; Large milkweed bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Milkweed Tussock Moth Larva, <i>Euchaetes egle</i> This harlequin bug was causing severe damage to Pam's tomatoes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360036663006-WHUOMFRDQEJM8EFJHUNY/milkweed_bug_3.jpg Current Issue - Orangestriped oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i>; Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i>; Large milkweed bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Milkweed Tussock Moth Larva, <i>Euchaetes egle</i> Milkweed bugs gain protection from toxic chemicals found in the milkweed plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1360036724462-SEOLG2HQV9F8NK9XHU8N/milkweed_tussock_cat_4.jpg Current Issue - Orangestriped oakworm, <i>Anisota senatoria</i>; Harlequin bug, <i>Murgantia histrionica</i>; Large milkweed bug, <i>Oncopeltus fasciatus</i>; Milkweed Tussock Moth Larva, <i>Euchaetes egle</i> Milkweed tussock moth caterpillars are another orange and black denizen of the milkweed plant. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2005/10/17/sawflies-curled-rose-sawfly-iallantus-cinctusi-and-dusky-birch-sawfly-icroesus-latitarsusi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440433031064-YKNDE29MDJQZ3PW6GKD9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - Sawflies - Curled rose sawfly, <i>Allantus cinctus</i>, and dusky birch sawfly, <i>Croesus latitarsus</i> Sawflies can munch a rose leaf into oblivion in nothing flat. Note all the prolegs on the abdomen of this larva. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363542417467-06NA5YTF4HSCII12HTXT/sawfly2.jpg Current Issue - Sawflies - Curled rose sawfly, <i>Allantus cinctus</i>, and dusky birch sawfly, <i>Croesus latitarsus</i> It's easy to see how this sawfly earned the name curled rose sawfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2005/10/3/the-goldenrod-gang-goldenrod-soldier-beetle-ichauliognathus-pennsylvanicusi-the-black-blister-beetle-iepicauta-pennsylvanicai-and-the-jagged-ambush-bug-iphymata-pennsylvanicai monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440429702711-11I8GYOXW4D4YMR2EOHI/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The goldenrod gang - goldenrod soldier beetle, <i>Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus</i>, the black blister beetle, <i>Epicauta pennsylvanica</i>, and the jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata pennsylvanica</i> The goldenrod soldier beetle eats nectar, pollen, and garden pests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363642186114-4ATTIPG1TMXM4MJTX41U/goldenrod2.jpg Current Issue - The goldenrod gang - goldenrod soldier beetle, <i>Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus</i>, the black blister beetle, <i>Epicauta pennsylvanica</i>, and the jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata pennsylvanica</i> The black blister beetle produces potent irritants called cantharidins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363642252845-QVBIIS61C3REXRQ3J56M/goldenrod4.jpg Current Issue - The goldenrod gang - goldenrod soldier beetle, <i>Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus</i>, the black blister beetle, <i>Epicauta pennsylvanica</i>, and the jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata pennsylvanica</i> Powerful forelegs enable the ambush bug to capture its prey. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1363642293017-LGLVWJFYPS2KKZ49DFO8/goldenrod3.jpg Current Issue - The goldenrod gang - goldenrod soldier beetle, <i>Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus</i>, the black blister beetle, <i>Epicauta pennsylvanica</i>, and the jagged ambush bug, <i>Phymata pennsylvanica</i> Beautifully camouflaged, this ragged ambush bug awaits a victim. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/horning-in-on-your-tomatoes-tomato-and-tobacco-hornworms-imanduca-quinquemaculatai-and-imanduca-sextai monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769710606-EQT5TEYQD1IIQHK52QNW/9%3A26%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Horning in on your tomatoes - Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and </i>Manduca sexta<i> The hawk moth uses plant odors to locate plants like tomatoes to serve as food for her young. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357769922398-I2WAXDDB0HI0EJIP52N1/9%3A26%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Horning in on your tomatoes - Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and </i>Manduca sexta<i> These hornworm caterpillars have all but devoured this tomato plant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357770028710-740G50T0XW8E98UPWLJC/9%3A26%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Horning in on your tomatoes - Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and </i>Manduca sexta<i> This unlucky hornworm bears dozens of cocoons of small parasitic wasps that developed within its body. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357770108111-MGTD3PCLMKUJ9QD2CY89/9%3A26%3A05+4th.jpg Current Issue - Horning in on your tomatoes - Tomato and tobacco hornworms, <i>Manduca quinquemaculata</i> and </i>Manduca sexta<i> After completing development, the wasps pop the top of their cocoons and emerge to seek other victims. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/9/the-chinese-praying-mantid-itenodera-aridifolia-sinensesi monthly 0.5 2015-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1440429337659-3DM3S7GTHHWY5ABBV5D9/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - The Chinese Praying Mantid, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinenses<i> An unusually large mantid explains the finer points of courtship to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357763950171-13BWBSN856B0068L5X9Y/9%3A19%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - The Chinese Praying Mantid, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinenses<i> Manti devours the head of a fall field cricket https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357764044860-KVTBYNL0RO3RQVOW5367/9%3A19%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - The Chinese Praying Mantid, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinenses<i> Young mantids eat small insects such as aphids and flies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357764158913-8QTT57M8HE6YK8BZB50O/9%3A19%3A05+4th.jpg Current Issue - The Chinese Praying Mantid, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinenses<i> Notice the swollen adomen on our pregnant pet mantid, Manti. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357764193152-HDOPFLT803GI0NUFYW4Z/9%3A19%3A05+5th.jpg Current Issue - The Chinese Praying Mantid, <i>Tenodera aridifolia sinenses<i> In colder locations mantid eggs survive the winter in an egg case called an ootheca. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/6/3/the-lion-in-my-garden-i-chrysoperla-carnea-i monthly 0.5 2013-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370260719322-1NBTT85VJYYH4Q75L7W2/aphid091205.png Current Issue - The lion in my garden: Aphid lions, <i>Chrysoperla carnea</i> The adult lacewing eats nectar and pollen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370261034237-57PL7DD3EWYFNIFKAD79/aphid2091205.png Current Issue - The lion in my garden: Aphid lions, <i>Chrysoperla carnea</i> Lacewing eggs are placed on stalks above the leaf surface. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370261387017-NP37KGNUQ147NLPY0HBF/aphid3091205.png Current Issue - The lion in my garden: Aphid lions, <i>Chrysoperla carnea</i> The aphid lion spins a cocoon and pupates within. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370261444887-UKDKKJ0R0F2HG2B6BK6I/aphid4091205.png Current Issue - The lion in my garden: Aphid lions, <i>Chrysoperla carnea</i> The aphid lion clasps a hapless aphid and sucks its blood. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/katydid-the-curve-tailed-bush-katydid-scudderia-curvicauda monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357690611935-N36J751XG43V10T9X8DA/9%3A5%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda<i> Notice the small, dark opening on the front legs of this little beauty - the "ears" of the katydid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357690754553-HTDT971SPXOUAJBOWQC2/9%3A5%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda<i> The curved structure on the rear end of the katydid is the ovipositor used to deposit eggs on plants. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357690961607-10PE3O3WO6VWIRWBFLF5/9%3A5%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Katydid? The curve-tailed bush katydid, <i>Scudderia curvicauda<i> The wings of this male bush katydid have veins like a leaf, helping it blend with the vegetation. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/29/bed-bug-of-the-week-cimex-lectularius monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356812757090-RK2M4647KA8NO87ELQBZ/8%3A29%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Bed Bug of the Week, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Bedbug nymphs and adults chillin' in a bottle waiting to be fed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356813073579-JGMNAGYM74JFXUIDJY8G/8%3A29%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Bed Bug of the Week, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Bedbug filling up on my arm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356813392814-P9F0UZD7POEHXODDOE1F/8%3A29%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Bed Bug of the Week, <i>Cimex lectularius<i> Guess who's been hiding in my bed? https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/bag-a-bagworm-thyridopteryx-ephemeraeformis monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136521582-2SPTDN6WC7AY39WXNPGQ/8%3A22%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - Bag a bagworm, <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> This poor dwarf Alberta has a nasty case of bagworms. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136688120-OOUC5D0NJBOSXCAV66ZJ/8%3A22%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - Bag a bagworm, <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> Late in the spring tiny bagworms began to feed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356136782348-78F7WXISYIE98R0C1FDH/8%3A22%3A05+3rd.jpg Current Issue - Bag a bagworm, <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> The caterpillar pokes its head and legs out to move and eat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356137045269-0YGNVFI9VN9KPCZ58CZT/8%3A22%3A05+4th.jpg Current Issue - Bag a bagworm, <i>Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis<i> Some mistake the bagworm for a pinecone. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2012/12/21/the-troubadour-downstairs-fall-field-cricket-gryllus-pennsylvanicus monthly 0.5 2013-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356115213468-NOS28T140V4BJ1J58LMO/8%3A15%3A05+1st.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs: fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus<i> The rambunctious nymph on my basement floor has one more molt to go to earn his wings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1356115333293-VH560CEIH77SPAPQXSU5/8%3A15%3A05+2nd.jpg Current Issue - The troubadour downstairs: fall field cricket, <i>Gryllus pennsylvanicus<i> The male field cricket rubs one wing against the other to produce his song. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2005/8/8/the-royals-are-in-the-house-the-monarch-butterfly-idanaus-plexippusi monthly 0.5 2019-07-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364335951043-Y3LCFUYN4267T95EM60R/monad.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house, the monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus A monarch prepares to carbo-load on nectar before performing its royal tasks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364336087468-HN5Z4K20WO6QKYCHJ4MK/monarch2.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house, the monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus A newly hatched monarch caterpillar prepares for its first meal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364336131070-41KFN0H6TCDOKLYDLJIQ/monarch3.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house, the monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus The fully-grown caterpillar assumes the "J" position just before pupation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1364336175691-9W8D2WZRO8WE4HQACT52/monarch4.jpg Current Issue - The royals are in the house, the monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus In the chrysalis the caterpillar transforms to a butterfly. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/4/gold-in-the-meadow-the-dogbane-beetle-ichrysocus-auratusi monthly 0.5 2013-06-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357339640672-GHNBJWKMIBQ3MES3PLII/dogbane1.jpg Current Issue - Gold in the meadow: the dogbane beetle, <i>Chrysocus auratus</i> Chrysocus auratus getting a dose of poison from a leaf of dogbane. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357339753535-M6ISZL4TGSE6S14Q0OWV/dogbane2.jpg Current Issue - Gold in the meadow: the dogbane beetle, <i>Chrysocus auratus</i> A pair of Chrysocus auratus in beetle bliss. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/roses-beware-japanese-beetles-are-in-the-air-ipopillia-japonicai monthly 0.5 2013-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676478538-MNEFNCHWKIM2EFBDY06V/jbdamage.jpg Current Issue - Roses beware, Japanese beetles are in the air! <i>Popillia japonica</i> Linden tree heavily damaged by Japanese Beetles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676601742-FUPFE3TICVIKG0R0414I/jbgang.jpg Current Issue - Roses beware, Japanese beetles are in the air! <i>Popillia japonica</i> Japanese beetles feeding and frolicking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357676690443-XQRJH4KZZ19FCUAT1I9W/jbgrub_parasite.jpg Current Issue - Roses beware, Japanese beetles are in the air! <i>Popillia japonica</i> White grub parasitized by a tiphiid wasp. Red arrow points to the ectoparasite. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/8/summer-nights-lucifers-lights monthly 0.5 2013-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357683316700-KYWEBXUKAMI0EWJEOKNP/light1_300.jpg Current Issue - Summer nights - Lucifer's lights The lightning bug's light organ is at the tip of the abdomen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357683492823-H9286NJ2UFSKIOZL8QQ2/lightrest300.jpg Current Issue - Summer nights - Lucifer's lights Alex's Photinus lightning bug. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1357683523347-3SAQROEUU3AIO9H8YYDR/lightfeed300.jpg Current Issue - Summer nights - Lucifer's lights Lightning bug on the hunt for prey -- aphids beware. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/14/the-tiger-in-my-frisbee-iaedes-albopictusi-the-asian-tiger-mosquito monthly 0.5 2013-01-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358195063290-6WGLXWLTIQ0UWBL7OSDE/breed.jpg Current Issue - The Tiger in my frisbee: The Asian Tiger Mosquito, <i>Aedes albopictus</i> Mosquito breeder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358195244724-CJ610ACEYB4G76FDCBVO/aquatic.jpg Current Issue - The Tiger in my frisbee: The Asian Tiger Mosquito, <i>Aedes albopictus</i> Mosquito larvae - wriggers (left); and mosquito pupa - tumbler (right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358195465312-F9Z0K6O75157VHZFIR7K/feed2.jpg Current Issue - The Tiger in my frisbee: The Asian Tiger Mosquito, <i>Aedes albopictus</i> Asian Tiger feeding on my wife's leg. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/15/lions-in-the-sand-antlions-family-imyrmeleontidaei monthly 0.5 2013-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358273549822-R5FL1TXYCTBXT1GGAH0B/jaw3.jpg Current Issue - Lions in the sand: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae Sickle-shaped Antlion Jaws https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1400167900694-Z0NN17CKGGM63ENLHKPY/pits.jpg Current Issue - Lions in the sand: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae Conical pits characteristic of "doodlebugs". https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358273748831-GQ3P2R78O8L7MGF49G95/antlionad1.jpg Current Issue - Lions in the sand: Antlions, Family Myrmeleontidae Adult Antlion https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/17/whos-your-maggot-flower-flies-hover-flies-drone-flies-syrphid-flies-family-syrphidae monthly 0.5 2013-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465494951-2VC82KREJYWDZT8CJKB7/syrphidlarv1.jpg Current Issue - Who's your maggot? Flower flies, hover flies, drone flies, syrphid flies: Family Syrphidae https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465550071-2R3GUD1OBWX1ZJMV9FXV/syrphidad1.jpg Current Issue - Who's your maggot? Flower flies, hover flies, drone flies, syrphid flies: Family Syrphidae Adult flower fly on flowering perennials. They mimic bees and wasps. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358465606925-XFN35WWGM6FMDO5I4RZX/syrphidad3.jpg Current Issue - Who's your maggot? Flower flies, hover flies, drone flies, syrphid flies: Family Syrphidae It's easy to see how someone might mistake the adult flower fly for a bee or wasp. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/18/just-in-the-tick-of-time-american-dog-tick-idermacentor-variabilisi-and-black-legged-tick-iixodes-scapularisi monthly 0.5 2013-01-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532511244-3MAFH8TCXD8W22L1DHHI/twoticks3.jpg Current Issue - Just in the tick of time: American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and Black-legged tick, <i>Ixodes scapularis</i> Adult American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis (larger tick); Ixodes scapularis (smaller tick) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532670696-ITYA8XRDM1H8YKCYOKSL/tickquest.jpg Current Issue - Just in the tick of time: American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and Black-legged tick, <i>Ixodes scapularis</i> Questing tick. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358532734610-V89W1QWWLLDGKALPXFX1/tickout.jpg Current Issue - Just in the tick of time: American dog tick, <i>Dermacentor variabilis</i>, and Black-legged tick, <i>Ixodes scapularis</i> Using forceps to remove a tick. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/23/carpenter-bees-if-you-please-ixylocopa-virginicai monthly 0.5 2013-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964841461-FY3R6JSB78GPQK412LI0/carp1.jpg Current Issue - Carpenter bees if you please - <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Male Carpenter Bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964878479-8FMKBEQKB4M6HQ3YXBDB/carp8.jpg Current Issue - Carpenter bees if you please - <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Female Carpenter Bee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1358964914308-W8TAGJDSBVVWFRVG291Z/carphole1.jpg Current Issue - Carpenter bees if you please - <i>Xylocopa virginica</i> Carpenter Bee Hole. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/24/shes-a-lady-or-is-she-the-multicolored-asian-lady-beetle-iharmonia-axyridisi-missing-video monthly 0.5 2014-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1370360383743-H1YJ3JJWRZFZFZB0AYNB/harmegg3NEW.jpg Current Issue - She's a lady - or is she? The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> The lemon yellow eggs of the Asian lady beetle are laid in clusters of about twenty. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1399312124083-7WIS9I915P6Z8ZMX6G1O/image-asset.jpeg Current Issue - She's a lady - or is she? The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> Asian lady beetle adults come in many colors and patterns. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359050970334-6C2M92J32T02YMCWHH02/harmlarv4NEW.jpg Current Issue - She's a lady - or is she? The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle, <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> The Asian lady beetle larva looks a bit like an alligator. https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2013/1/26/anne-arundel-county-this-bugs-for-you-the-euonymus-leaf-notcher-ipryeria-sinicai monthly 0.5 2014-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359234191117-ZH5QVKCV5DHU3JQE2ECJ/enot2sm.jpg Current Issue - Anne Arundel County - This Bug's for You: The Euonymus Leaf Notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica</i> Eunonymus Leaf Notcher caterpillars, Pryeria sinica, ravage the leaves of a euonymus shrub. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/502d2cede4b0ab396711e089/1359234289603-K3ZPM604PPRQUKPGUII3/enot10.jpg Current Issue - Anne Arundel County - This Bug's for You: The Euonymus Leaf Notcher, <i>Pryeria sinica</i> Eunonymus Leaf Notcher caterpillars (Pryeria sinica) https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/category/Television monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/category/Music monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/category/Movies monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/category/Books monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Crabronidae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/cicadas monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Buthidae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/aphid+predator monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Malacosoma+americanum monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/barn+spider monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/termites monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/darkling+beetles monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Six-spotted+green+tiger+beetle monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/pumpkin+spider monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/false+eye+spots monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/alpha-galactose+sugar+molecule monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/yellowjackets monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/stick+insect monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/spider+egg+case monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/invasive+insect monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/insects monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/hornets monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/pantry+moth monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/tent+caterpillar+management monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/S.+aerata monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Mutillidae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/fungus+beetle monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/milkweed+leaf+beetle+adult monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/mosquito+control monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Antheraea+polyphemus monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/food+moth monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Capniidae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/The+Bug+Guy monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/sexton+beetles monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/red+meat+allergy monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Araneus+marmoreus monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/geometrids monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/bullhorn+ants monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/singing+insects monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/spotted+lanternfly monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Big-headed+ground+beetle monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/iridescent+black+beetles monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Dr.+Paula+M.+Shrewsbury monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/cicada+shower monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/benthic+inhabitants monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/water+skeeters monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/velvet+ant monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/parasitic+wasps monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/metallic-blue-green+beetle monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Maggie+Lewis monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Gerridae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/soil+grubs monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/paralytic monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Automeris+metzli monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/fluoresce monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Braconid+wasps monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Agathemera+elegans monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Phasmatodea monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/black+and+yellow+striped+wasp monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Colletes monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/African+fig+fly monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/tropical+ants monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Oiceoptoma+noveboracense monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Mike+Raupp monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/angularwinged+katydids monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Nicrophorines monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Gerrids monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Entomophthora+muscae monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Euonymus+leaf-notcher monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/aphid+killer monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/leatherwings monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/leafcutting+bees monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/social+insects monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/UMD monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Zombie+beetles monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Phytomyza+ilicicola monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/stoneflies monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/Arthropoda monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/pollinating+insects monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/wood-nesting+bees monthly 0.5 https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/tag/dancing+aphids monthly 0.5 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