Bug Squad

A daily (M-F) blog launched Aug. 6, 2008 and about the wonderful world of insects and those who study them. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Queen bee laying an egg. A honey bee egg weighs about 0.1 mg, according to the late Extension apiculturist emeritus Eric Mussen, UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Honey Bee Larvae: Weigh to Go!

December 19, 2023
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
It's a week before Christmas and it's not just the geese that are getting fat. If you're thinking that the bathroom scale and you are not good friends, not to worry.
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UC Davis distinguished professor Lynn Kimsey, director of the Bohart Museum of Entomology, holds some of the stocking stuffers available in the Bohart git shop. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

There's a Bed Bug in My Christmas Stocking!

December 18, 2023
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
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A Conversation in the Flower Bed

December 15, 2023
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
Date: Sept. 9, 2023 Location: A flower bed in Vacaville, Calif. Mantis: Hi, it's me, your favorite praying mantis! I just popped in to say hello! Photographer: Well, hello there, Ms.
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A monarch caterpillar, the result of fall breeding in Vacaville, Calif. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Roll Call: Answer If You're Here

December 14, 2023
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
Roll call of monarch caterpillars today in a milkweed bed in a Vacaville pollinator garden. Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 1!" "Present." Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 2!" "Present!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 3!" "Present!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 4!" "Here!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No.
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