Beetles with striking black and red coloration can be found across North America, captivating observers with their vibrant patterns. These beetles belong to a range of species and play diverse ecological roles. While some are agricultural pests, others act as beneficial predators, helping control pest populations. Their varied diets and lifestyles provide a glimpse into … Read more
There are nearly 3,000 spider species in North America alone, making identifying a common house spider difficult. Is it just a harmless little guy? Or a venomous predator waiting to pounce? More likely than not, the critter weaving a web on your ceiling is the former, but there’s nothing wrong with knowing the difference for … Read more
As summer starts its wind-down, a dramatic annual phenomenon is about to unfold: tarantula mating season. These large, hairy spiders, known for their imposing appearance and nocturnal habits, become more active as temperatures start cooling off a bit in Arizona and other dry states. Tarantulas will start emerging from their burrows soon in search of … Read more
Mealworms are the larvae of the beetle Tenebrio molitor. Birds such as chickadees, bluebirds, wrens and woodpeckers will eat mealworms, if they are placed in a feeder accessible to the birds. Because mealworms can crawl, it is best to place them in a feeder where they cannot crawl out. Mealworms can be kept for weeks … Read more
Playing dead, also known as thanatosis or tonic immobility, is an ingenious defense mechanism used by some spiders to ward off predators and other threats. By feigning death, spiders are able to convince potential attackers that they are not worth the effort, allowing them to make a sneaky getaway once the coast is clear. In … Read more
The little spiders I find hiding in the corners of a room or hanging out among the plants outside my front door are usually fascinating little creatures — and nothing to be frightened of. Those spiders are usually insectivores and not interested in anything with a backbone, let alone a full-grown human. But insect eaters … Read more
Are you seeing these creatures in your home? Carpet beetles are found inside homes, warehouses, museums, and other buildings. Once inside they may cause serious damage to clothing, furs, carpets, and other stored fabric items. Tiny round bugs seem to magically appear in homes, even clean ones. You may spot a few crawling on the … Read more
Spiders with striped legs are quite common in the arachnid world These intriguing spiders display bands of coloration on their eight legs, often matching or complementing the colors and patterns on their bodies The stripes serve an important purpose – they aid the spiders in camouflage and help them blend into their surroundings more seamlessly. … Read more
A brightly colored bill can be one of the best clues when identifying birds, and red-beaked species are some of the most striking. From tiny, jewel-like hummingbirds to elegant waterfowl and exotic tropical birds, these vibrant-billed beauties stand out in any environment. But have you ever wondered why so many birds have red beaks? In … Read more
Spider mites are common, tiny garden pests, related to spiders and ticks. Usually microscopic, mites can be found in almost any habitat, including the human body. We refer to some mites based on where they are found: cheese mites, dust mites, eyelash mites. The term “spider mite” is often used to refer to mites that … Read more