This species of yellowjacket goes by many names across its range, including the Bald-faced Hornet. In the U.S., they are most common in the southeast, but can be found in the Rocky […]
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What can you see around Western Montana right now?
Western Horse Fly (Tabanus punctifer), Female
This close to one inch horse fly looks almost pettable, with its creamy hair, but better to err on the side of caution. Females, like this one, feed on the […]
Read MoreSalt Marsh Moth (Estigmene acrea)
Caterpillars are not always easy to identify, and the Salt Marsh varies widely in color; from blond to brown to black. And, don’t let the name fool you, these balls […]
Read MoreEuropean Mantis (Mantis religiosa)
These are likely the first of many sightings to come. European Mantises, as their name suggests, are not native. Each year gardeners purchase their egg cases (called oothecae) with the idea that […]
Read MoreAnts Tending Aphids
If you find a group of aphids on a plant, you will often find an ant(s) that are “herding” them like cattle. The ants feed on the aphids’ honeydew (a […]
Read MoreMontana Six-plume Moth (Alucita montana)
Aside from Montana, these moths can be found from southwestern Quebec and Vermont, west to British Columbia, and south to Arizona, Texas, and California. They overwinter as adults, hiding under loose […]
Read MoreJagged Ambush Bug (Phymata americana)
This Jagged Ambush Bug practically disappeared in the rabbitbrush flowers. Glenn removed it for a quick photo. You’ll notice the forelegs are thick and shaped like those of a praying mantis — perfect for […]
Read MoreCommon Tree Cricket in the genus Oecanthus
If you find a green tree cricket in North America, you can be certain it is in the genus Oecanthus. Most can be identified to species by examining the markings on the underside of […]
Read MoreSpurge Hawkmoth Caterpillar (Hyles euphorbiae)
These gorgeous caterpillars were discovered during the Junior Bug Olympics camp with the Missoula Family YMCA. They all sport a “horn,” but look different depending on what stage they are in. Young larvae are […]
Read MoreMariposa Copper (Lycaena mariposa)
This small butterfly can be found in moist meadows and openings in lodgepole pine forests, coniferous forests, bogs, roadsides, and trail sides. They are on the wing from mid-July to […]
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