Camel crickets, despite their name, are related to katydids rather than crickets. But unlike their cousins that sing to attract mates, camel crickets are largely silent. Instead they likely use smells and vibrations to communicate. Although, much of this is speculation, since the behavior of most species remains a mystery!
The larval mite on this harvestman’s leg will continue engorging on host fluids until it falls off and pupates in the soil. It will then emerge as a purplish predatory mite with white stripes, then pupate again, and finally emerge as an adult that roams forest litter for prey Female tiny parasitic wasp (Eupelmidae) with…
This is a southern devil scorpion. They inhabit the southern Appalachian region and are the only scorpion that lives east of the Mississippi River, except for three species in Florida and surrounding areas. Like most scorpions, they have two eyes in the middle of their ‘head’ area, but also have ‘lateral eyes’. This species has…
This ant is bringing a young crab spider back to its nest. Spiders, many of which are soft-bodied and poorly defended, are often easy prey for ants. American Bird Grasshopper Banded Pennant Collared ant (Aphaenogaster) pulling carpenter ant (Camponotus) – gets stuck Forcepfly (Merope tuber)
The Green Stink Bug is a flattened, shield-shaped bug, named for the offensive odor it produces. The adult is bright green and about 2/3 inch (17 mm) long. It is easily distinguished by the triangular-shaped plate that partially covers its wings. The green stink bug feeds on many plants, including native and ornamental trees, shrubs,…
The Chinese Mantis is a long, slender, brown and green praying mantis. It is typically longer than other praying mantis species reaching just over 11 cm (4.3 in), and it is the largest mantis species in North America. Its color can vary from overall green to brown with a green lateral stripe on the borders…
Despite resembling a bumble bee, this is a actually huge fly that preys on other insects. They have strong venom for downing prey or inflicting a painful bite if handled. Notice this specimen turning its head to track potential prey flying by. Many flies mimic bees, and this species is among the largest in the…
