If you’ve ever been to the UK in early June, you’re likely to remember the lovely, temperate weather, high tea in the garden, and perhaps the presence of beetles on the prowl for a mate. June is known as peak beetle season as many species are looking to reproduce. Stag beetles in … [Read more...] about Help bolster the UK’s beetle populations after a cold and rainy spring
insects
Protect your neighborhood insects this spring with amber-hued lights
Insects play a big role in our ecosystems. They provide decomposition and nutrient cycling services, pollinate crops, and are a food source for birds and other animals. In monetary terms, researchers have valued the services insects offer various ecosystems at $57 billion per … [Read more...] about Protect your neighborhood insects this spring with amber-hued lights
Find everything you need to support pollinators in your yard right here
We all want to support pollinators, but the best way to do this varies based on where you live. If you live in the US, Xerces Society is a great resource for finding the most impactful pollinator protection tools at your disposal. The organization's Pollinator Conservation … [Read more...] about Find everything you need to support pollinators in your yard right here
Cicada wings inspire scientists to develop waterproof surfaces of the future
Researching the physical and chemical properties of insect wings, a team of scientists from the University of Illinois has managed to reproduce the incredible material properties that help cicada wings repel water and keep bacteria at bay. The novel technique, which uses … [Read more...] about Cicada wings inspire scientists to develop waterproof surfaces of the future
Why more farms should feed maggots to chickens rather than soy
Watching chickens peck around for insects should be an utterly normal experience, but in this day and age, most hens are kept indoors where they are forced to eat a grain and soy-rich diet. These chickens might never see an insect in their life. The reason farmers opt for soy … [Read more...] about Why more farms should feed maggots to chickens rather than soy