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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Queen bee laying an egg. A honey bee egg weighs about 0.1 mg, according to the late Extension apiculturist emeritus Eric Mussen, UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

Honey Bee Larvae: Weigh to Go!

December 19, 2023
It's a week before Christmas and it's not just the geese that are getting fat. If you're thinking that the bathroom scale and you are not good friends, not to worry.
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UC Davis distinguished professor Lynn Kimsey, director of the Bohart Museum of Entomology, holds some of the stocking stuffers available in the Bohart git shop. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

There's a Bed Bug in My Christmas Stocking!

December 18, 2023
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
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Bug Squad: Article

A Conversation in the Flower Bed

December 15, 2023
Date: Sept. 9, 2023 Location: A flower bed in Vacaville, Calif. Mantis: Hi, it's me, your favorite praying mantis! I just popped in to say hello! Photographer: Well, hello there, Ms.
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A monarch caterpillar, the result of fall breeding in Vacaville, Calif. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)
Bug Squad: Article

Roll Call: Answer If You're Here

December 14, 2023
Roll call of monarch caterpillars today in a milkweed bed in a Vacaville pollinator garden. Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 1!" "Present." Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 2!" "Present!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 3!" "Present!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No. 4!" "Here!" Secretary: "Caterpillar No.
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This image of the larva of an elm zigzag fly appears on the cover of the 2024 Entomological Society of America calendar. (Photo by Christian Brockes of Germany)
Bug Squad: Article

Inside the 'World of Insects' Calendar

December 13, 2023
If you like insects, macro photography, and cool calendars, you'll want to order the "World of Insects" calendar, published by the Entomological Society of America. You'll see insects you've never seen before--and learn a little about them.
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