This “fluff” is also known as the Dogbane Tiger Moth, for the caterpillars’ penchant for dogbanes (Apocynum spp.). They also feed on milkweeds (Asclepias spp.). In our area they stick to low to mid […]

The term “antlion” applies to the immature (larval) stages of this incredible insect. While the adults (pictured here) feed on nectar and pollen, the larvae are amazing predators. Unlike other […]

Masked Hunters are a type of assassin bug, using a pointed “beak” to impale and consume their prey. While the adults are black in color, the bodies of the nymphs […]

These coppers are currently making their second and last appearance for the year in western Montana. We have two flights of Purplish Coppers — the first from May into July […]

While it’s nearly impossible to follow a hairstreak’s rapid flight, flitting from side to side or in circles, a stop at a “fueling station” provides an opportunity for a closer look. […]

One of the more noticeable features of a “true bug” (order Hemiptera) is a triangular piece of the thorax, called the scutellum. Maybe you’ve seen this triangle on the familiar Western Boxelder […]

These large hawkmoths (sphinx moths) are a non-native species that’s been released in the fight against leafy spurge (the food source for their beautiful caterpillars). They can be found in several western states (Montana, […]

We’re not 100% sure what species of swallowtail these individuals are, but we’ve narrowed the possibilities down to the Two-tailed Swallowtail (Papilio multicaudata) and the Western Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio rutulus). We’ve read that the “The […]

With their slender body and stilt-like legs, crane flies kind of look like mosquitoes on steroids. But not to worry, they are not out for blood. Adult crane flies only […]