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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Children at the Bohart Museum of Entomology program at the Vacaville Public Library display different reactions when the bugs appear. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Don't Yell 'Yecch' and Run for Cover!

March 28, 2019
The message was clear. If you see a creepy crawler, don't yell yecch! and run for coveror the nearest exit. Instead, say Interesting! Insects should delight you, not frighten you.
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Monarchs on the fly in a Vacaville, Calif., pollinator garden in September 2016. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Those Disappearing Western Monarchs

March 27, 2019
It's good to see butterflies, especially monarchs, getting so much press. Now let's see if we can press the issue. The Washington Post just published an article in its style section: "Butterflies Were Symbols of Rebirth.
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A pollen-laden honey bee nectaring a mustard blossom in Vacaville, Calif. this week: in between the rains! (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Can't Cut the Mustard? Not Honey Bees!

March 26, 2019
The phrase "can't cut the mustard" (not able to handle the job) doesn't apply to honey bees. It's spring and honey bees are emerging en force from their hives to collect nectar and pollen to feed their colonies. The fields are awash with mustard. By the way, O.
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