Nature has a brilliant way of helping creatures survive through camouflage and mimicry. One of the most fascinating examples is caterpillars that resemble snakes. With their false eye spots, inflated bodies and snake-like movements, these tiny larvae have evolved to trick predators into thinking they are dangerous reptiles. Why Would a Caterpillar Mimic a Snake? … Read more
Few things are as memorable as receiving a sharp bite or sting from an insect, spider, or other venomous arthropod. In fact, that’s the point! Arthropod venom is nature’s way of leaving a memorable impression on the target, including you. Most arthropod venoms are painful to some degree. The black widow spider may have the … Read more
Birds with crests are some of the most recognizable and fascinating avian species in North America. These feathered crowns not only add to their beauty but also play significant roles in communication, courtship, and survival. In this guide, we will explore the various crested birds found across the continent, their habitats, behaviors, and the unique … Read more
The desert may seem like an inhospitable place, but it is actually home to a diverse array of animal and plant life. One group that has successfully adapted to thrive in arid environments is beetles. With over 350000 known species beetles represent one of the largest and most widespread insect families on Earth. From the … Read more
Termites are small insects often confused for flying ants. There are different types of termite species, meaning they vary in appearance as well. There are still several similar characteristics that most termite species in Florida share. Because termites can differ in both species and caste, they can also differ in appearance. Perhaps the most complicated … Read more
Caterpillars are the larval stage of butterflies and moths. Most caterpillars are completely harmless to humans. However, some species have defensive mechanisms like spines, spikes, and venom that can cause irritation or injury. These are known as stinging caterpillars What Makes Caterpillars Sting? Stinging caterpillars have specialized hollow hairs or spines that are connected to … Read more
North Carolina is home to a diverse array of wasp species. While wasps have a bad reputation for their painful stings, most species are not aggressive unless their nest is threatened. Wasps play important roles as predators, pollinators, and biocontrol agents in ecosystems across North Carolina. Of the over 30 species of wasps found in … Read more
Many people suffer from arachnophobia, the abnormal or irrational fear of spiders. Despite this, spiders can be beneficial, eating unwanted insects around your house. They sometimes even eat snakes. However, spiders are a part of a food chain that makes them prey as well. Once you understand what eats spiders and how spiders fit into … Read more
For tarantula enthusiasts, keeping communal tarantulas can be an exciting prospect. However, it also comes with challenges and risks. With careful planning and proper species selection, a communal tarantula habitat can thrive. This article provides an overview of communal tarantula keeping, including suitable species, habitat setup, feeding tips, and more. What are Communal Tarantulas? Most … Read more
Afroduck was Ohio State’s beloved unofficial mascot because of a unique trait that set him apart from the other ducks, a crest of feathers on his head that looked like an afro. Many have wondered if this is a kind of rare genetic mutation never before seen in ducks. As it turns out, his fluffy … Read more