Did you know that European hornets, also known as Vespa crabro, are not only pests but also beneficial insects? These large insects, measuring between 2 and 3.5 cm in length, play a crucial role in controlling destructive insects like grasshoppers and flies. However, their presence can also be a cause for concern, as they can…
Did you know that bumblebees are responsible for pollinating two-thirds of the world’s crop species? These fascinating creatures play a crucial role in our ecosystem, ensuring the reproduction of many plant species and contributing to the growth of food crops. With over 255 species worldwide, bumblebees are vital pollinators that are larger than honeybees and…
Did you know that there have been zero confirmed sightings of brown recluse spiders in Idaho? Despite the prevailing belief that these venomous arachnids can be found in the Gem State, the truth is quite different. The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has declared that brown recluse spiders are not present in Idaho. So,…
Did you know that honeybees are responsible for pollinating one-third of the world’s crops? These tiny insects play a crucial role in our food production, ensuring that flowers, fruits, and vegetables thrive. But there’s so much more to honeybees than just pollination! In this article, we will explore the incredible traits, behaviors, and habitat of…
Did you know that carpenter bees play an essential role as solitary pollinators? With around 500 species worldwide, these bees exhibit intriguing behaviors and traits that set them apart from other bee species. Carpenter bees, belonging to the genus Xylocopa, are known for their nesting behavior, where they burrow into hard plant materials like dead…
Did you know that yellow jackets are not bees? These North American predatory insects are often mistaken for bees due to their size, shape, and black with yellow markings coloration. But don’t be fooled by their resemblance! Yellow jackets have unique characteristics and behaviors that set them apart. Yellow jackets are common worldwide and especially…
Did you know that the yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) is one of the largest invasive ant species in the world? This aggressive and dominant ant species is native to Southeast Asia but has spread to tropical regions across the globe, causing significant ecological impacts. The yellow crazy ant, also known as the yellow ant,…
Did you know that Idaho is home to a diverse range of spider species? From hunters that roam your backyard to acrobats that defy gravity, these creatures play a crucial role in our ecosystem. In this article, we will explore some of the most common spiders found in Idaho and uncover surprising facts about their…
Bald-faced hornets are a distinct and captivating insect that closely resembles a black and white wasp. With their black bodies and white-patterned faces, these hornets are easily recognizable. But what sets them apart is their ability to deliver multiple stings due to their smooth stingers. This makes encountering a bald-faced hornet nest a potential danger…
Meet Jane, a Boise resident who had a pesky problem that seemed to hover around her every move. No matter how many times she cleaned her kitchen or sealed her windows, those unwanted pests always found a way in. It was as if they had a secret agenda to disrupt her peaceful home. Frustrated and…