Every fall in the Bay Area, male tarantulas take advantage of cooler temperatures and venture out of their dens to seek out a mate. These fuzzy arachnids might give some people the creeps, but they’re actually completely harmless. Some locals and visitors steer clear of certain Tri-Valley parks during tarantula mating season, while others seek … Read more
Chiggers are bugs so small that you need a magnifying glass to spot them. Scientists call these creatures “trombiculid mites” because theyre from a family of mites called Neotrombicula autumnalis. But they have a bunch of nicknames. In North America, theyre usually called chiggers. In Britain, theyre known as harvest mites. They can also be … Read more
Hawaii is home to a diverse range of spider species. With over 200 species identified across the islands, spiders play an important role in the local ecosystem While some species like the Brown Widow and Black Widow can pose a danger, most Hawaiian spiders are harmless to humans This article provides an overview of some … Read more
Three different kinds of caterpillars are invading Michigan this fall that you should keep your eyes open for. Heres what you need to know about these venomous caterpillars. Unsurprisingly, we have a couple of venomous spiders to watch out for in Michigan. But…Caterpillars? The word poisonous is thrown around a lot when it comes to … Read more
Wood-eating wasps are a common nuisance for homeowners with wooden structures and furniture. While wasps don’t actually consume wood for nutrition certain species use wood pulp to build their paper nests. Understanding which wasps chew wood and why can help you protect your property. What Wasps Chew Wood? There are two main types of wasps … Read more
Spiders are common in many homes and yards. While the majority of spiders are harmless, there are a few species that can be dangerous. Two spiders often confused are the brown recluse and wolf spider. While they appear similar, there are distinct differences between them. In this article we will compare the brown recluse and … Read more
Arizona’s diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains to canyons provide habitats for over 300 species of butterflies. These winged beauties add a dash of color and beauty to the state. Arizona’s climate allows butterflies to be active year-round, with peak seasons in spring and fall when many migratory species pass through. For butterfly enthusiasts Arizona … Read more
Feared all around the world, tarantulas are a group of rather large and hairy spiders with over 1,000 species having been identified with 156 genera. But despite their terrifying look, these spiders are not as dangerous as the movies make them out to be. Tarantulas occupy a unique place in Australia’s ecology and culture. Though … Read more
Question: Recently, I have had a small problem with a weird-looking insect that I have never seen before. It’s small and seems to congregate under wood such as plywood. It has a slender, gray body that is broader at the head and tapers down towards the end; it also has three antennas. Answer: From your … Read more
Massachusetts is home to a wide variety of butterfly species. With its range of habitats from coastal areas to forests and meadows the state provides ideal conditions for many types of butterflies. Here is an overview of some of the most notable butterflies found in Massachusetts Swallowtail Butterflies Several species of swallowtail butterflies can be … Read more