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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Gearing Up for Second COVID-19 Symposium on May 14

May 11, 2020
A panel of experts in medicine and science will present up-to-date information and answer questions at the second COVID-19 Symposium organized and moderated by UC Davis distinguished professor Walter Leal. The free public awareness event will take place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 14.
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A painted lady, Vanessa cardui, laying her eggs on a tower of jewels, Echium wildpretii, in Vacaville, Calif. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Painted Ladies: Yes, They Do!

May 7, 2020
Yes, they do, and yes, she did. Painted lady butterflies, Vanessa cardui, do lay their eggs on Echium wildpretii, commonly known as "the tower of jewels." However, this little lady (below) persistently returned a few times to find a bee-free spot.
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Entomologist Doug Yanega of UC Riverside shows two Asian giant hornets, one of which is from the colony detected and killed on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He was sought out to identify the species.

The Hornet Wars: 'A Bloody Dumpster Fire'

May 5, 2020
The news stories and social media comments about the Asian giant hornet detected last year in British Columbia and Washington state and labeled the murder hornet, are drawing the ire of entomologists throughout the world. And well they should.
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