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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These images of the Asian giant hornet, aka "murder hornet," are published in the journal Insect Systematics and Diversity. (Images by Allan Smith-Pardo)

Incredible Work, and Timely, on 22 Species of Hornets

May 12, 2020
What an incredible work! And timely, too! While many folks are panicking about the first detected (and destroyed) colony of Asian giant hornets, aka murder hornets, in North America, three entomologists have just published research on this and the 21 other known species of hornets in the genus Vespa...
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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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