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)
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A sweat bee, Halictus tripartitus, nectaring on a tower of jewels (Echium wildpretii) in Vacaville, Calif. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Sweat Bee: Overlooked and Underloved

June 10, 2021
Let's hear it for the sweat bee. It's one of the many tiny bees that ought to be honored and recognized during Pollination Week, June 21-27, but it's often overlooked. We've been seeing many of this species, Halictus tripartitus, in our pollinator garden in Vacaville.
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UC Davis distinguished professor Bruce Hammock is known for his expertise in chemistry, toxicology, biochemistry and entomology. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey

These Scientists Do UC Davis Proud

June 8, 2021
Congratulations to the three UC Davis scientists who are sharing the Royal Society of Chemistry's Horizon Team Award for their click-chemistry work that advances chemistry and pushes the boundaries of sciences. They do UC Davis proud. Very proud.
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A mint moth, Pyrausta californicalis, nectaring on lavender in Vacaville, Calif. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

What's Better than a Mint on Your Pillow?

June 4, 2021
What's better than a mint on your pillow? A mint moth in your garden! We ran across this colorful mint moth, Pyrausta californicalis (as identified by UC Davis distinguished professor Art Shapiro) on May 20 in a Vacaville bed of tall lavender.
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