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)
Primary Image
A Carniolan honey bee sipping water from a fountain. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Why Honey Bees Need Water

August 30, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
Ever seen honey bees foraging for water on your outdoor clothesline? When Extension apiculturist Eric Mussen of the University of California, Davis, addresses beekeeping associations, he tells them to "always provide water for your bees on your property.
View Article
Primary Image
This photo, by Stephen Daubert, is of a variable checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona.

Off to See the Butterflies

August 29, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
If you're not around the University of California, Davis, on Sunday morning, Sept. 29, you should be. You'll want to join the Butterfly Ecology Talk and Tour presented by naturalist Steve Daubert.
View Article
Primary Image
A western spotted orb weaver, Neoscona oaxacensis, finishing its web. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Acrobatic Spider

August 28, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
Oh, what serious webs they weave. Perfect concentric circles. Perfect for snagging prey. Perfect for capturing a few photographic images. Orb weavers take on the classic shape popularized by Charlotte the spider in E.B. White's children's book, Charlotte's Web.
View Article
Primary Image
A European paper wasp on the hunt. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

The Terminator

August 27, 2013
By Kathy Keatley Garvey
So here you are, a Gulf Fritillary caterpillar, chowing down on the leaves of a passionflower vine.
View Article