A new pest has emerged in the U.S. in recent years: the Oak Leaf Gall Mite, Pyemotes herfsi, also known as an "oak mite" or "itch mite." The mite's life cycle and wind-driven dispersal make this arachnid and its painful bites an almost inescapable nuisance. Where Did the Oak … [Read more...]
Can Sterilized Mosquitoes Stop the Spread of Zika?
This question about stopping the spread of the Zika Virus is behind the experimental release of millions of infertile male mosquitoes in Fresno, California this summer. Called "DeBug Fresno," this field study is testing the use of sterilized male mosquitoes as a way to control … [Read more...]
Getting Away Doesn’t Mean the Bugs Can’t Find You
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Preventing & Relieving Skin Irritations This Spring & Summer
Rising temperatures are exciting, as they mean more time spent outside with the whole family. However, the warm weather also means more opportunities for skin irritations like bug bites, heat rashes, and allergic reactions. Certified dermatologist Dr. Angela Lamb offers some tips … [Read more...]
Endangered Insects?
You might think it’s impossible that there could be such a thing as an endangered "bug" species, but there really is. Several species, in fact. Here are some examples. Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis is a critically-endangered subspecies of fly … [Read more...]
Insect Invaders of Autumn
A surprising number of insects follow us indoors come autumn, taking refuge from the impending winter weather. Fortunately, most are not pests. Here are the common ones, and how to help stop them from entering your home. Boxelder Bugs Boxelder Bugs can reach overwhelming … [Read more...]