Bug Squad

The flameskimmers are back! We've been waiting for the new generation of flameskimmers, aka firecracker skimmers (Libellula saturata), to visit our yard after the long winter. On Sunday, a male flameskimmer did.

So you're thinking of become a commercial beekeeper and renting your colonies to almond growers. California currently grows some 900,000 acres of almonds, and each acre requires two colonies for pollination. A friend gave you some old bee boxes.

Bees and other pollinators may have a tough time during the fourth year of California's severe drought, as they search for nectar and pollen. Expect to see many plants wither, wilt and die due to the "D" word, "Drought." Gov.

If you like to see lady beetles devouring aphids or assassin bugs piercing spotted cucumber beetles, then you'll love the workshop taking place Saturday, April 11 in rural Zamora, Yolo County. That's not to say you'll see beneficial insects doing their thingbut you might.

Mosquitoes will take the spotlight, front line and center, this month.