In the early 20th century, the coastal dunes of San Francisco shimmered with the iridescent wings of a small, vibrant creature: the Xerces Blue butterfly. These azure beauties danced among native plants, an integral part of the city’s unique ecosystem. Now, over 80 years after their extinction, a glimmer of hope has emerged in the … Read more
Did you know that as our planet warms, the habitats suitable for ticks are expanding? According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the correlation between rising temperatures and the spread of ticks is becoming increasingly evident1. This shift not only affects the natural world but also poses heightened risks to public health through the spread of … Read more
Tarantulas are large, hairy spiders that can be found in various habitats across the southern and western United States. While they may look intimidating, most species have relatively mild venom that is not life-threatening to humans. If you live in or plan to visit any of these states, you might just come face to face … Read more
Spiders, often perceived as creepy crawlers, are more common housemates than we may realize. While many of us may shudder at the thought of sharing our living spaces with these eight-legged creatures, most spiders are harmless and even beneficial, helping to keep insect populations in check. It’s not surprising that a variety of spider species … Read more
Butterflies are a welcome sight in any garden. To attract these beautiful pollinators, many gardeners plant milkweed, the primary food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars.1 However, not all milkweed planting efforts yield the desired results. Despite their adaptability, growing milkweed requires specific care to ensure it thrives and attracts butterflies. Unfortunately, several common mistakes can … Read more
Nature is full of surprises, and the Hummingbird Hawk-moth is one of its most delightful tricks. Imagine an insect that looks like a bird, hovers like a helicopter, and has a tongue longer than its body! This creature, with its sweet tooth and pint-sized proboscis, is a master of disguise and a marvel of adaptation. … Read more
Transform your garden into a breathtaking swallowtail butterfly sanctuary. Swallowtail butterflies are large, colorful butterflies known for their distinctive tail-like wing extensions. With their graceful flight and striking patterns, these winged wonders bring life and beauty to any outdoor space. To attract these beauties, here are plants that will entice them to visit. 1. Dill … Read more
Do not mistake hummingbird moths (Hemaris) for hummingbirds. They fly and move just like hummingbirds, with a similar body shape and a rapid wing beat that produces a gentle humming sound.1 These insects are not only fascinating to watch but they are also pollinators that contribute to the health of our gardens and ecosystems. If … Read more
Butterflies are beautiful to look at, but they also help plants grow. Planting milkweed is a good way to attract monarch butterfly pollinators to visit your garden. Research shows that the health of young monarch butterflies depends on having enough milkweed plants and good weather. As they mature, it’s more about how healthy the milkweed … Read more
Prepare to meet the “Panda Ant,” a creature shrouded in contradiction. Despite its cuddly name and adorable appearance, this insect is not an ant at all—it’s a wasp, and a formidable one at that. In fact, it’s said that just six to 10 stings from this tiny warrior can take down an entire cow, earning … Read more
