Bug Squad Logo

Bug Squad

Bug Squad blog image depicts a honey bee sting in action.

Welcome to the Bug Squad blog! The Bug Squad blog was launched Aug. 6, 2008 and is a daily blog (Monday through Friday). It showcases entomologists and the work they do.  The blog focuses on scientists in the UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology, the Bohart Museum of Entomology, Harry H. Laidlaw Jr. Honey Bee Research Facility, the UC Davis Bee Haven, and assorted campuswide events, including UC Davis Picnic Day, UC Davis Biodiversity Museum Day, and Bohart Museum open houses. The blog spotlights insects, including bees, butterflies, dragonflies, and praying mantises, as well as arachnids such as jumping spiders and crab spiders. Author and photographer is Kathy Keatley Garvey, communications specialist, UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology, and a longtime journalist and community scientist with two degrees from Washington State University.  She is a member of the Entomological Society of America (ESA) and the Association for Communication Excellence (ACE). Her blog posts and images have won international awards from ACE and ESA and appeared on journal and magazine covers. She shoots primarily with a Nikon Z-8 mirrorless camera, a Nikon D500 and Nikon 800, with assorted macro lenses. Feedspot lists it as one of the top entomology blogs on the Internet. 

Primary Image
While mom (right) observes, Steven Mao, 7, of Davis, watches Dave Driscoll of the Fly Fishers of Davis tie a fly during the 104th annual UC Davis Picnic Day. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Fly Fishers of Davis: Tying One On

April 27, 2018
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
It was difficult to say who enjoyed this event the most: the Fly Fishers of Davis demonstrating how to tie flies, or the youngsters watching them.
View Article
Primary Image
Bug Doctor Brendon Boudinot answers a question from Lilliana Phillips, 5, of Carmichael, as her father, William Phillips, watches. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

The Doctor Is In: 'Bug Me'

April 26, 2018
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
The handwritten sign at the "Bug Doctor" booth at Briggs Hall during the 104th annual UC Davis Picnic Day read "Bug Me with Questions." And attendees did. They asked questions, expressed concerns, and offered comments.
View Article