Few creatures pique my interest as much as the Love Bug (Plecia nearctica). Known for their peculiar name and seemingly endless swarming behavior, these little insects are a ubiquitous part of Florida’s landscape. Despite their nuisance reputation, Love Bugs have a fascinating story worth telling. Let’s delve into the life of the Love Bug, exploring […]
Lazy 8 Insects of Sarasota
- Love Bug (Plecia nearctica)
- Spiny-backed Orb-Weaver (Gasteracantha cancriformis)
- Gulf Fritillary Butterfly (Agraulis vanillae)
- Buckeye Butterfly (Junonia coenia)
- Eastern Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea guttata)
- Zebra Longwing Butterfly (Heliconius charithonia)
- White Peacock Butterfly (Anartia jatrophae)
- Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis invicta)
Spiny-backed Orb-Weaver (Gasteracantha cancriformis)
Hey, nature enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the whimsical world of one of Florida’s most fascinating and funky little critters: the Spiny-backed Orb-Weaver (Gasteracantha cancriformis). This spider is not only a master weaver but also a fashion icon in the arachnid world. So, grab your magnifying glass and let’s get up close and personal with […]
Gulf Fritillary Butterfly (Agraulis vanillae)
There’s one particular creature that never fails to ignite my passion and captivate my senses – the Gulf Fritillary butterfly (Agraulis vanillae). With its vibrant orange wings adorned with intricate black markings, this delicate insect embodies the very essence of Florida’s tropical allure.expand_more A Passion Ignited My fascination with the Gulf Fritillary began during my […]
Buckeye Butterfly (Junonia coenia)
This charismatic butterfly, with its distinctive eye-spots and captivating behavior, is a true gem of the Sunshine State’s natural landscape. A Childhood Fascination My fascination with the buckeye butterfly began during my formative years, as I spent countless hours exploring the fields and meadows near my childhood home. I vividly recall the first time I […]
Eastern Lubber Grasshopper (Romalea guttata)
This imposing insect, with its vibrant colors and voracious appetite, is a true icon of the Sunshine State’s natural landscape, albeit one that often sparks both admiration and exasperation. A Childhood Encounter My first encounter with the Eastern lubber grasshopper occurred during my formative years, as I explored the fields and gardens near my childhood […]
Zebra Longwing Butterfly (Heliconius charithonia)
My love affair with the zebra longwing began during my formative years, as I explored the lush gardens and wild spaces that surrounded my childhood home. I vividly recall the first time I encountered a zebra longwing, its striking black and yellow stripes instantly capturing my attention. Its elegant, elongated wings seemed to defy gravity […]
White Peacock Butterfly (Anartia jatrophae)
The white peacock butterfly (Anartia jatrophae) holds a special place in my heart. This delicate insect, with its intricate wing patterns and captivating behaviors, is a true testament to the beauty and resilience of nature. A Childhood Encounter My love affair with the white peacock butterfly began during my formative years, as I explored the […]
Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis invicta)
Howdy folks! Gather ’round as your friendly neighborhood Florida naturalist spins a yarn about one of our most notorious residents: the red imported fire ant, or Solenopsis invicta for those who prefer scientific lingo. Now, these fiery little fellas might not be the most welcome critters in the Sunshine State, but there’s no denying their […]