Monthly Archives: April 2013

Living With Crane Flies

Posted on April 30, 2013 by jjneal

To most people, crane flies resemble “giant mosquitoes”. They are attracted to lights and are among the early insects of spring. About 15,000 crane fly species have been identified and larvae have diverse habitats from aquatic to semi aquatic. Most … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Environment, Invasive Species, Uncategorized | Leave a comment

How Low Can They Go?

Posted on April 29, 2013 by jjneal

Fairyflies are parasitic wasps that are among the smallest known insects. Huber and Noyes* described a new species of Fairyfly, Tinkerbella nana, from Costa Rica. The tiny wasp was found in sweep net samples of vegetation. Only the adults are … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Environment, Taxonomy | 1 Comment

Spring Insects

Posted on April 28, 2013 by jjneal

Spring 2013 in Indiana has been cool. Insect activity is delayed. Many of the insects active in early spring will overwinter as adults. This includes water striders (Gerridae) that can be seen skating along the surface of small streams. Most … Continue reading →

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Living With Small Carpenter Bees

Posted on April 27, 2013 by jjneal

So far, Spring 2013 in Indiana is below normal temperatures; much cooler than the well above normal temperatures of Spring 2012. Many trees are only now leafing and many flowers have yet to bloom. Those flowers that are blooming are … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Environment | 1 Comment

Friday Cat-erpillar Blogging: A Nutritious Breakfast?

Posted on April 26, 2013 by jjneal

Caterpillars start life as an egg on a leaf. Many species have been observed to consume the chorion (egg shell) which is primarily made of protein. The chorion is assumed to be a better source of protein than the plant. … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Caterpillar Blogging, Environment | 1 Comment

Living With Biological Control

Posted on April 25, 2013 by jjneal

Insects indoors? Many people dislike the concept. When Asian Lady Beetles first arrived, Entomologists received countless homeowner complaints and requests for information. With the passage of time, people have learned how to live with them. Complaints and questions have diminished. … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Education, Environment, Pest Management | Leave a comment

Living With Total Release Foggers

Posted on April 24, 2013 by jjneal

Total Release Foggers (EPA speak for Bug Bombs) are aerosol containers designed to control insects by fumigating interior rooms. The bug bombs typically contain a liquid that produces the aerosol droplets and pyrethrin or pyrethroid insecticides. In many instances, these … Continue reading →

Posted in by jjneal, Health, Pest Management | 1 Comment