Insects

Insects • August 15, 2025

How to Identify 10 Insects That Smell When Squished (Before It’s Too Late)

You’ve just encountered a small insect and instinctively reached to squish it—but wait. Some insects pack a chemical surprise that can leave you gagging, stinging, or dealing with skin irritation for hours. These creatures have evolved sophisticated defensive mechanisms that release everything from mildly unpleasant odors to caustic chemicals when threatened or crushed. Understanding which […]

Happiness Ibietela • August 15, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

10 Types of Fireflies in North Carolina Every Nature Lover Should Know

North Carolina hosts nearly 20% of all firefly species found in the United States, with some displaying behaviors so rare they attract scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the world. While you might think all types of fireflies in North Carolina are the same twinkling insects from your childhood memories, each species has evolved unique […]

Animal of Things • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

Types of Fireflies in Utah in Summer: Complete Field Guide

You might think fireflies only exist in humid eastern summers, but Utah harbors its own remarkable collection of light-producing beetles. Scientists at the Natural History Museum of Utah and BYU are actively tracking firefly populations throughout the state, revealing a surprising diversity of species that illuminate Utah’s marshes and wetlands each summer. Understanding the types […]

Animal of Things • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

Why Washington State Fireflies Don’t Flash + 5 Species You Can Find

Fireflies in the Pacific Northwest are very real, although they may not quite match up to the image you have in your mind. If you’ve ever wondered about the types of fireflies in Washington state while expecting magical evening light shows, you’re in for a fascinating surprise. Washington’s fireflies break every stereotype you might have […]

Animal of Things • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

12 Texas Firefly Species That Actually Glow (And 2 That Don’t)

You might be surprised to learn that not all “fireflies” in Texas actually light up. While most people associate these fascinating beetles with their magical summer glow, Texas hosts several types of fireflies that have lost their ability to produce light over evolutionary time. Understanding the different species helps you appreciate the incredible diversity of […]

Animal of Things • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

6 Dangerous Biting Ant Species Wisconsin Homeowners Must Know

Wisconsin summers bring more than just beautiful weather—they also activate aggressive biting ants that can turn peaceful outdoor activities into painful encounters. While most people think of fire ants when considering dangerous species, biting ants in wisconsin include several aggressive species that deliver surprisingly painful bites, often combined with chemical sprays that intensify the discomfort. […]

Happiness Ibietela • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 14, 2025

20 Invasive Insects in California You Need to Identify Now (2025 Guide)

California agricultural losses to exotic pests exceed $3 billion annually, making invasive insect identification crucial for every property owner, gardener, and outdoor enthusiast. These non-native species didn’t arrive by accident—they’ve established themselves across the Golden State, causing devastating impacts to crops, native ecosystems, and even human health. You’re about to discover the 20 most significant […]

Patience Isreal • August 14, 2025

Insects • August 11, 2025

Invasive Insects in Michigan in 2025: Essential Identification Guide

Michigan’s natural beauty faces an unprecedented threat from invasive insects that cause over $50 million in agricultural and forestry damage annually. These non-native species, accidentally introduced through global trade and travel, now threaten your trees, gardens, and local ecosystems in ways that native predators cannot control. Understanding how to identify invasive insects in Michigan protects […]

Janet Agbalikwunu • August 11, 2025

Insects • July 30, 2025

Types of Beetles with Pincers: A Complete Guide to Nature’s Armored Warriors

Ever wondered why some beetles look like they’re carrying tiny medieval weapons? These remarkable insects haven’t evolved their impressive pincers—technically called mandibles—for show. From the mighty stag beetle’s antler-like jaws to the ground beetle’s razor-sharp mandibles, these natural tools serve as weapons, construction equipment, and even courtship displays all rolled into one. Understanding the diverse […]

Christian Edet • July 30, 2025

Insects • July 25, 2025

12 Types of Crickets in Missouri: Complete Species Identification Guide

You’ll encounter more cricket species in Missouri than you might expect. While most people recognize the familiar chirping that fills summer evenings, the most common house-invading crickets in Missouri are field crickets (Gryllus spp.), house crickets (Acheta domesticus), ground crickets (Nemobius fasciatus), camel or cave crickets (Ceuthophilus spp.) and mole crickets (Neocurtilla hexadactyla). This comprehensive […]

Oluwatosin Urel • July 25, 2025