Scarlett Malachite Beetle

I was pleasantly surprised when we came across scarlet malachite beetles in Armstrong. It brightened my day a bit after our encounter with the armyworm caterpillars. These beetles are not very common. They are good beetles; the adults feed on pollen and the young on other bugs. We saw more of these beetles in Enderby. … Continue reading Scarlett Malachite Beetle

Wildflowers, Bugs and Spiders

I went on a hike with two lovely girlfriends this weekend and we had a blast with the exception of being almost eaten alive by mosquitoes; what a nightmare - the horrid things. I have never seen so many mosquitoes in my life. I digress; the mosquitoes could still not take the joy out of … Continue reading Wildflowers, Bugs and Spiders

Armyworms

Western yellowstriped armyworm Large outbreaks of Western yellowstriped armyworm were reported in Enderby, Armstrong and Spallumcheen in 2018. The caterpillars caused a lot of damage to alfalfa, corn, gardens and other crops. Unfortunately, the caterpillars are back again this year. Western yellowstriped armyworm caterpillars are black with pale yellow stripes on the body. The front … Continue reading Armyworms

Introduction

Bugs – just mention this word and you get different reactions from people: fear, pain, anxiety, nuisance, disgust – the ew factor, crawly feeling, run for the bug swatter, bring out the can of raid, dismay - there goes my tomatoes. On the other hand, some people enjoy the sight of butterflies, lady bugs and … Continue reading Introduction