Bug Squad

William C. Reeves (1916-2004) would have been proud. Remember William "Bill" Reeves? A renowned entomologist, professor and dean at UC Berkeley, he was widely regarded as the world's foremost authority on the spread and control of mosquito-borne diseases.

Honey bees, bumble bees, hover flies, parasitoids and common houseflies aren't the only visitors paying their respects to our two nectarine trees. A picture-winged fly (Ceroxys latiusculus) dropped in on Feb. 28 for a quick visit.

Xerces Society scientists just developed a first-of-its-kind conservation strategy summarizing the threats facing native bees in the diverse landscapes of Yolo County and identifying measures to protect them. And what a great conservation--and conservation--piece this is.

Research entomologist Terry Griswold of the USDA-ARS (U.S.

Folks accustomed to seeing only honey bees (which are non-natives) buzzing around their yard probably aren't aware that in the United States alone there are some 4000 identified species of native bees. And they probably aren't aware of The Bee Course.