pest photos 1701 to 1800

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A little background on a volunteer expert respondent:
Ed Saugstad. B.S. in Entomology - NDSU, 1963. M.S. in Entomology - Purdue University, 1967
A life-long interest in natural history. Formally trained in entomology, he also has a personal interest in herpetology and has read widely in many biological fields. 21 years in the U.S. Army as a medical entomologist; duties varied from surveillance of pest populations (including mosquitoes, cockroaches, ticks, and stored products pests) to conducting research on mosquito-virus ecological relationships and mosquito faunal studies. Ten years as a civilian analyst for the Department of Defense, primarily on distribution of vector-borne diseases worldwide.

He is a member of Entomological Society of America, Society for Vector Ecology & National Speleological Society.

Publications
American Journal of Public Health, Contributions of the American Entomological Institute, Japanese Journal of Sanitary Zoology, Journal of Economic Entomology, Mosquito News, and Mosquito Systematics.

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No photo, just a message of thanks for your website, by which I finally identified our pesky basement "hoppy bugs" as Camel Crickets.
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What is this pest?
Submit photos of any pest you would like identified. Hopefully one of our visitors will be able to identify them.
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The pictures below have been submitted by visitors. If you can identify them you are invited to send us your answers. Your description is also welcome.
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1800 Hi. This creature flew into my window at about 11.00pm in Hampshire, UK whilst I was with a friend! There appear to be distinctive fanned antenna, etc, and is about an inch- 2 inches long. We have searched around and have not been able to identify it. Jack.
This is a beetle in the family Scarabaeidae; more specifically, it appears to belong to a plant-feeding group known as chafers. The adults (such as this one) are nocturnal foliage feeders; their larvae are soil dwellers where they feed on plant roots. Some species can be serious pests. See http://www.kendall-bioresearch.co.uk/chafer.htm for more information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
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Hi, I would say this is a cockchafer beetle Melolontha melolontha going by the feathery antenna, they are supposedly quite rare due to pesticide usage. There is a good article here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cockchafer Thanks, Iain.

1799 This spider was found about 2ft, from our swimming pool the day after we opened the pool, this spring. Location is about 1 hour west of Ottawa. It appears to be a Fishing Spider, but I don't know for sure. Richard

It is quite possible that this is a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) - see http://sparkleberrysprings.com/v-web/b2/images/fisher2.jpg . However, as I cannot see its eyes, the possibility of it being a wolf spider (family Lycosidae) cannot be ruled out completely. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1798 Hi there, I was wondering if you could help me. On our grapes that we purchased just a few weeks ago, we found these little white balls. They look like snail eggs. Are they? Or.. What should we do about this? Thanks so much, Jelle. Department of Zoology / University of Oxford
I doubt that these are the eggs of a snail (or slug, for that matter), as these usually are laid in a discrete cluster and are not so transparent. They may be a natural exudate from the grape vine. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1797 Hello I found this spider on the hallway wall of our single storey home in Chester, Nova Scotia, Canada. I was wondering if anyone could identify it for me and possible provide some information on it. Jonathan
This appears to be a fishing/nursery web spider (family Pisauridae). Closely related to (and often resembling) wolf spiders (family Lycosidae), they lack the enlarged anterior median eyes characteristic of wolf spiders. Essentially harmless to humans, large specimens are capable of inflicting a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1796 Hi I hope you can help me identify this worm I found in the soil while digging some sod up It was on a sandy slope in Melbourne Ontario Canada on April 27 2008. this worm had 2 spots on both ends and a pointer of some kind that it used to drag itself around while on my hand it was quite active see attached photos thanks in advance. \Dave"
This is a fly larva; I suspect that it could be that of a robber fly (family Asilidae), but I really would like a dipterist to chime in here as there are several families of Diptera having soil-dwelling predaceous larvae. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1795 I recently moved to Oakville and am experiencing my 1st spring here. I live > on the 11th floor of an apartment building facing west just near the lake, (not sure if this has a bearing on problem). Since early April there have been hundreds of tiny black fly/gnat/aphid type bugs living on the walls, floor and ceiling of my balcony. They don't bite but are extremely annoying and seem to be multiplying like crazy. No one in the building, facing any direction, knows how to get rid of them or where they come from. I've tried safer soap, raid spray, spider ban, (because there were a few spiders out there also), and plain old sweeping them down, but nothing seems to eliminate them - they keep coming back and are covering everything in sight now. What are they and what can I do to get rid of them????
The insect images are too small to make out any detail, but given your location near a lake, these could be non-biting midges in the family Chironomidae - see http://jimswan.com/111/chironomidae.jpg for an image. The larvae of these harmless (but annoying) cousins of mosquitoes are aquatic/semiaquatic, inhabiting a wide variety of habitats including lakes, ponds, streams, water-filled cavities in trees (we’ve even had them in our stock tank!), wet soil, and rotting vegetation. Because of this, control is very difficult to say the least; your best bet is concentrating on keeping them from getting indoors. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1794 Dear Sir/Madam, This bug was found in my nephew's home in Belgium . It is in the kitchen and I think they have walls made of ( partially ) straw. They have a brand new baby ! and are worried !! Thanks for your help, Quentin Verhaegen

This moth could be in the family Tineidae (see http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a1/Unidentified_animal_007_(aka).jpg/275px-Unidentified_animal_007_(aka).jpg for an image). This is a large family of small moths, the caterpillars of which feed primarily on fungi, lichens, and organic detritus. It also includes a few household pests, namely the clothes moths (Tinea pellionella and Tineola bisselliella) and the carpet/tapestry moth (Trichophaga tapetzella). However, your specimen does not resemble any of these species, and likely is a harmless intruder that poses no threat to your household. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1793 Hi there, Can anyone tell me what these are …The biggest I have seen is about 1mm in length, they don’t appear to fly or jump, but they can run very fast for something so little. Have been doing some building work and there is probably more dust than usual but I’ve noticed them in a couple of rooms – living room, dining room … Normal conditions all round really. Thanks for your help in advance!!! Cheers, Gideon

The image will not enlarge so I cannot be certain, but this may be a booklouse (Psocoptera: Liposcelidae). They feed primarily on mould spores and the like (occasionally also on starchy materials such as the sizing in book bindings or some pantry items) and basically are harmless, but may be considered nuisance pests when they occur in large numbers. See No. 1715 for another example and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2080.html for a fact sheet. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1792 Hello, My cat was playing with this bug in the long grass behind my house. It was found in South-Eastern New Brunswick, Canada. Can anyone tell me what it is? Thanks. Lillian
Hi, This looks a lot like an insect we would call a 'waterschorpioen' in the Netherlands (Nepa cinerea). Most likely the breathing tube was broken off while the cat was playing with it. On wikipedia I found a page about it: http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterschorpioen Cheers, Jelle Ferwerda, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Department of Zoology / University of Oxford United Kingdom
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This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera: Belostomatidae). Also known as toe-biters and electric light bugs, they are voracious predators on other aquatic life. They are excellent fliers, and often can be found at quite some distance from any water source. They are capable of delivering quite a painful ‘bite’ if mishandled. See nos. 1592, 1546, 1513, 1498, 1457, and 1378 for other examples. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1791 I am in Toronto, Canada. I found 2 of these fast crawling bugs, and 2 larvae under my bed near the baseboard, I had an extra pillow stored under my bed too. I have gotten a couple of small bug bites on my torso / back each night for the last three nights but today is the first day I found any bugs. I've washed all linens in hot water and thrown out the pillow - but what should I do now? Does this type of bug bite people? Susie

You appear to have two different genera of carpet beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); Attagenus (black carpet beetle and relatives) and Anthrenus (varied carpet beetle and relatives). Neither of these are in the habit of biting humans, but the larvae can be quite destructive to woolen fabrics, furs, taxidermy specimens, and just about anything else containing proteinaceous material of animal origin. See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
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These photos appear to be of the larvae and adult of a member of the beetle family Dermestidae, Attagenus spp. These insects are associated with birds nests, so check out your loft. Not known as 'biting insects'. However, there are other creepy crawlies such as bird mites ( Dermanyssus gallinae) that do bite! and are also associated with birds nests. Phil. Field biologist with a UK pest control company

1790 What is this? It is chalky WHITE! I found this on the back side of a roof tile placed against a stone wall the day before. It was gone the next morning. We live in the Sonoran Desert North of Phoenix, Arizona. This is the exact orientation. When I first saw it the wings were against the body. It was about 3 inches long at least an inch wide it was adhered to the back of the tile with the legs.
Difficult to be certain because of the angle of the photo, but this most likely is a sphinx moth (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae). If you encounter another specimen, try to photograph it from directly above. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1789 Hi I am from Western Australia, Australia. I found two of these on wood used for a step in the backyard are they nest of something, insects maybe? Thanks Marina

Hard to say what this might be. It looks more like something of fungal than insect origin - see http://www.flickr.com/photos/8023288@N06/589638187/ for an example. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1788 This bug was found in the living room but i find them everywhere in my house on the floor even sometimes on wall if someone can identify this pest thanks

This could be a black carpet beetle (Attagenus unicolor; Coleoptera: Dermestidae) or a close relative. You should carefully check any carpeting that contains wool or woolen clothing for signs of beetle larvae (see http://www.insectslimited.com/Black Carpet Beetle adult & larva.jpg for an image) or their damage. If you find any signs of infestation, see http://www.ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/blk_carpet_beetle.htm for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1787 Soooo many thanks for this website!
I had a laptop computer in the corner of a closed closet for a month. I pulled it out and it was covered with these buggers crawling everywhere on and in the computer. I put the computer out in the hot sun for two days but saved a couple specimens. Since clearing them from the computer, I've not seen them return to the computer or the closet. The photos were taken under a 60x and 200x microscope. The bugs appear to be smaller than a millimeter. I was guessing they're some type of mite feeding on the dead skin probably in the keyboard. I'm particularly concerned that I should do something to ensure they aren't still in the closet.
More thanks, Topher

These are mites, but exactly what kind is uncertain. They do not appear to be dust mites (Dermatophagoides spp. - see http://www.catnmore.com/images/HouseDustMite.jpg), a ubiquitous houseguest worldwide, but do bear a superficial resemblance to those in the genus Tyrophagus - see http://www-dev.hgca.com/images/upload/LEPIDO~1.jpg for an image. Members of this genus can be found feeding on a variety of organic material such as flour, cheese, moulds, etc.; if a mite specialist could step in here, I would be most grateful. Regardless of their specific identity, giving your equipment a good clean (vacuuming, compressed air) and lowering the relative humidity in storage areas should help control them. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1786 These are in large numbers in my yard in San Antonio, TX. Can anyone identify them? Are they beneficial or should they be controlled? Thanks.

These are bordered plant bugs (Largus succinctus; Hemiptera: Largidae). They are general feeders on many species of plants, but seldom cause any serious injury. Like boxelder bugs, they can become nuisance pests when they occur in large numbers around homes. See http://insects.tamu.edu/fieldguide/aimg60.html for more information on this species. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1785 Hi, I am from Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. We live on an acreage and I found this "big guy" on our deck almost crawling into our house (thank goodness for screen doors!). It appears to have damage on the one side of his body and his legs are rather hairy looking...Does anyone know what it is? Thanks so much, Amanda

What a wonderful find - I haven’t seen one of these in years! It is one of our continent’s largest predaceous diving beetles (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae), either in the genus Cybister or Dytiscus (the key characters separating these genera cannot be seen in this image). Both adults and larvae (often called ‘water tigers’) are voracious predators on small aquatic life; there are at least 150 species of dytiscids known from Alberta - see http://www.royalalbertamuseum.ca/natural/insects/bugsfaq/diving.htm . Your specimen appears to have suffered considerable damage; possibly by a bird or small mammal. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1784 Hello, I am a Canadian living in Switzerland. Over the past couple of weeks, I have found these creatures crawling from and to the cracks under the bath tub, usually one or two at a time. To be honest I have been pretty content just killing them :-< but recently I found a couple of these bugs on my bed! As I took off the sheets for cleaning, I found these two on the mattress!!! You can imagine how disgusting this feels...I have no idea how they got there nor what they are: I have looked at every single photo on this site (up to photo 1000) and my best guess is silverfish however they lack the characteristic tails. I would really appreciate it if someone could tell me what they are and what they were doing on my mattress (have they travelled from the bathroom to the bedroom?). I realize the photo is a bit out of focus but this is really the best I could do: the general shape is right, I can also tell you they have 4 legs in the front and the stripes are yellow-orange in color while the body is more brown. They also move very fast. Please help! Karim
Rather than silverfish, these look more like the larvae of black carpet beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) or relatives in the genus Attagenus - see http://www.margarets.com/fashionablecarefiles/insectsweb/carpet_beetle_LarveAdult.jpg for an image of larvae and an adult. Also, see http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7436.html for a fact sheet on carpet beetles that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1783 Hi. I found these little bugs in my room in Northern California. They are about 3-4mm in length, have wings, and a strange thing coming out of it's butt like a stinger. I'm pretty sure it's a parasitic wasp after looking around the website, but wanted to make sure. Pictures of other parasitic wasps look different than the things in my room. I've found the ones in my room look more like ants. Sorry for the blurry picture, I hope you can tell what it is. Thank you! Julianne.
This is indeed a parasitic wasp, but the image is too fuzzy to attempt a definitive identification (there are many families of small parasitic wasps, and they vary greatly in overall appearance). If the wing venation is greatly reduced (see http://cse.naro.affrc.go.jp/konishi/wing4Ch.JPG) and they appear to ‘jump’ when taking flight, they may be in the superfamily Chalcidoidea; if several wing veins are visible (see http://tolweb.org/Braconidae), they may be in the family Braconidae. The ‘stinger’ is its egg-laying organ, called an ovipositor. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1782 This is the smaller version of the bugs we have in our kitchen and sometimes in our bathrooms they only come out at night they are in our sinks on our counters in our dishwasher on and in stoves they are gross and I want to know what they are. Sharron.
I’m afraid you have a cockroach infestation; this is a nymph of a brown-banded cockroach, Supella longipalpa - see http://www.alohatermite.com/images/supellalongipalpa.jpg for an image of all life stages. This species tends to be more difficult to control than most other cockroaches. See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2098.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1781 Hello, I live in Winnipeg, MB, Canada. I found this on a carpeted floor by a bed in my spare bedroom on the second level. Bed is not often used, but did have a large dog stay at the house for a little while and she did wonder into the room on occasion. Thank you very much for your time.
Ryan Clement
This appears to be a larva of a beetle in the genus Dermestes (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), such as the larder beetle, Dermestes lardarius - see http://counties.cce.cornell.edu/suffolk/HortFactSheets/factsheets/Larder Beetle.pdf for a fact sheet that includes details on its life cycle. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1780 Hi found this in my fridge I think it was in plums can you tell me what it is I live in Inverness Scotland. cheers

This is a female cricket (Orthoptera: Gryllidae); it could be in the genus Gryllus (see http://shop.pollywog.co.uk/images/gryllus_bimaculatus.jpg for an image), but depending on where the plums originated, it may or may not be a native species. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
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This appears to be a foreign cricket as the only UK black field cricket Gryllus campestris is incredibly rare and found only in the south of England, plus it's wings are too long in the pic to be G. campestris, I'm almost certain there are zero 'cricket' (ensifera, gryllidae..) species in Scotland and only a small selection of Grasshopper (caelifera) species. Thanks, Iain.

1779 Hi! I am in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. I found about 10 of these little guys on my small parsley plant. It's on my apartment balcony (outdoors), in a small pot. The parsley is about 3 inches tall, and in its second growing. These little guys are long, maybe about 1 - 1.5 inches long, with "spikes", and orange spots - with a white middle. It was a super humid summer (30+C) with little rain. I first identified these as ladybug larvae, as they don't seem to be eating the plant. But they look more "wormy" to me, now. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks! Kimber

This appears to be a third instar larva of a black swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes; Lepidoptera: Papilionidae). These larvae change their appearance dramatically during their development; see http://www.butterflygardeningandconservation.com/butterfly/st/black.php for a detailed account of their life cycle. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1778 We are in Western New York. Can you identify this insect that first appeared in our damp basement in cracked corn bird food which has been discarded.. It is now appearing in large numbers on the basement floor next to walls and a few in our bathroom tub and sink. The insect is black, about 3/16" in size, does not fly or jump. I sweep them up and spray, however, they persist. Thank you. Pat

These appear to be grain weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) such as those in the genus Sitophilus - see http://sgrl.csiro.au/storage/insects/beetles_moths/Sitophilus_species.html . You probably should inspect any whole/cracked grain or seed products in your home for signs of infestation.Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1777 We live in Southern NH and this caterpillar is all over our tree farm. I've tried to determine what species it is but to no avail. Any help is much appreciated. Thanks, Katie
I cannot see enough of the caterpillar to be certain, but it most likely is a larva of an owlet moth (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). This is a very large family that includes several species of economic importance. I suggest that you take some specimens to your county office of the University of New Hampshire’s Cooperative Extension service (see http://extension.unh.edu/Counties/Counties.htm for contact information) for further assistance.

1776 Hello, I found this worm in my newly build house (Aug 2008) in Edmonton, AB, Canada. It is in my upstairs bathroom and I have found these worms about 2 weeks ago when the weather started to get warm. Please help me identify the pest. Thank you. Alan.
This is a beetle larva, but the image is too small and fuzzy to make a more specific determination. However, it does not appear to be either a wood pest or a pantry pest species. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1775 I live in Portland, Oregon. My cats found a few of these in the laundry room. It is about 3/4 inch long. Adrian
This is a ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae). The vast majority of these beetles are general predators on other small arthropods, and thus usually considered beneficial. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1774 Hi there, I'm hoping you can tell me this is a simple house spider. He was unusually large compared to the typical spiders we see here. We found him in our basement. We live in Langley, BC & have 3 small children so I'm concerned about them running into this guy's friends. Thank you, Trudy

The photo is too blurry to be certain, but this spider most likely is in the family Agelenidae (grass/funnel web spiders - see no. 1771). They often wander far from their web, and are frequently found indoors. Large specimens are capable of inflicting a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1773 Hi, so hoping you can help me with this pest. We have a log home and I am concerned that maybe this fellow could do some damage. Would appreciate your help. Ann

This is not a wood pest, but appears to be one of the grain beetles in the family Sylvanidae. You should inspect all cereal-based dry food products in your pantry for signs of insect infestation, and take appropriate action if any are found. See http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7452.html for guidelines. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1772 We live in Virginia Beach Va and suspected our Dogwood tree has recently died as it did not bloom this year. Yesterday 4-12-08 was quite warm and we witnessed hundreds of these insects walking up and down the tree and on many occasions they appeared to be coupling. They appear to be part of the long horned beetle family but I am not sure. Please let me know what you think they are. Brian. This is indeed a long-horned wood-boring beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), apparently in the tribe Clytini. It does not appear to be any species known to be a pest on dogwood, so its presence on your dogwood in such numbers is puzzling, especially since the tree is not blooming (many cerambycids are attracted to flowers). Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1771 What a great site.. I live in Squamish BC. I have a nice spider today in my sink , I think I let him out of the house he is so big and nice and if he shows up in the house again I hope somebody can tell me whether I should get rid of them or whether they bite me. I had in the past puncture spots 2 side by side on my leg about 1/4 inch apart and I sure hope it was not him or his friend or family member. Hans
This appears to be a grass/funnel web spider (family Agelenidae); see http://www.dkimages.com/discover/previews/971/20006358.JPG for an image. They often wander some distance from their webs, and may be mistaken for wolf spiders (family Lycosidaae). However, wolf spiders lack the prominent spinnerettes seen in this specimen, and have greatly enlarged anterior eyes. Large agelenids are capable of inflicting a painful bite if mishandled, but their fang marks would be considerably less than 1/4" apart. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1770 Just wondering what kind of bee this is? There are about 50 of the holes in our front garden. Thanks. Eddie
This is a bee; likely a mining bee (family Andrenidae) - see http://www.pbase.com/tmurray74/image/52743962 for an image. Although considered solitary bees (each queen constructs her own burrow), they may seem colonial when many burrows occur in proximity to each other. Some species may be numerous enough to be valuable pollinators. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1769 Any ideas what these little boys and girls are? Spotted clambering around on a fence at White Oak Plantation, Yulee Florida. They had a great way of walking: when the one behind runs into them, they set off, until they hit the one in front, whereupon they stop. They look like ants, but I am not convinced. Would love to know. Regards, Michael

These are barklice (order Psocoptera). They are completely harmless, feeding on fungi, lichens, and other organic material found on the bark of trees. Some species will spin webs on the bark of the trees they inhabit; these serve as cover for the insects, and do not harm the tree - see http://okeechobee.ifas.ufl.edu/News%20columns/Barklice.htm for details. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1768 This spider was found in Kelowna, BC, Canada, about 3 inches from a window frame. Size wise, it was about an inch in size. any help is appreciated, thank you. James
This an orb-weaving spider (family Araneidae); these spiders can become quite large, and thus attract attention. However, their fangs are small in relation to their body size, and all are harmless to humans. If you scroll through the archives on this site, you will find many similar examples. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1767 This critter caught a ride in an RV come up from PA into Alberta. Can you please identify for us? Thanks. Warren. K.

Follow up: Saw your answering posting for #1731 Ed. It looks quite similar to my bugs we saw next province over on post #1292. Turns out they had come in on some old wood that we had used as a décor piece.
This is a stink bug (Hemiptera [Heteroptera]: Pentatomidae). It bears a striking resemblance to the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys; an introduced species now well established in Pennsylvania.
See http://www.ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/brownmarmoratedstinkbug.htm for detailed information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1766 Hello, now that spring is here, I sometimes see this type of spider running around in my basement (it's quite fast). It's about the size of a quarter when its legs are extended. I live in Montreal, QC. Can someone identify it please? Thank you. Fad.
This is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae); they often wander indoors while searching for prey. They are active hunters, having very good eyesight (for spiders); large specimens are capable of delivering a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1765 Hello, I'm wondering if someone can help identify this bug for me. It can be found year round. (On every level of my home, but more so in the basement.) I live in Winnipeg, MB. Canada. What is it and how can I get rid of them? - Thank you!
This is another sow bug. See the answer to # 1753

1764 I recently moved to Kingman, Arizona and have just discovered hundreds of these flying around our roses and other spring foliage. The don't appear to be aggressive or territorial. When you approach the area they are in, they seem to move away, not one has landed on me. The do make a faint buzzing if you get very close to the swarm. Just trying to figure out what they are...some sort of fly, bee or wasp? Thanks! Diane
These appear to be hover flies (Diptera: Syrphidae) -
see http://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2005/06/08/flower-fly/. The adults can be valuable pollinators, and the larvae of many species are voracious predators on aphids. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1763 Hi. Lately I have noticed these cocoon like bugs in my hallway. They seem to have a transparent body with a dark head. Can you help me identify them? Thanks. Cynthia.

This appears to be a household casebearer (Phereoeca uterella; Lepidoptera: Tineidae). Also sometimes known as plaster bagworms, these are close relatives of clothes moths, but appear to prefer feeding on old cobwebs to munching on woolens. See http://creatures.ifas.ufl.edu/urban/occas/household_casebearer.htm for much more detailed information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1762 Hi, I found this spider in our backyard. We live 40 km east of Vancouver, BC. I've never seen anything like this. It is no bigger than a 1/2 inch. Could you please tell me what it is? Thank you very much!

This is a crab spider (family Thomisidae), possibly the flower/goldenrod crab spider, Misumena vatia - see http://www.canadianarachnology.org/data/spiders/30580#image for an image and more detailed information on this species. Crab spiders are sit-and-wait ambush predators; they do not spin a capture web, but wait until potential prey items approach within grasping distance. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1761 Hi, Please let us know what type of spider this is. Found in Southern Ontario (April 2008) on a blind (2cm pleats) in our kitchen. Feel free to post this on your site, which we find very helpful. Thank you, Michael & Lori
This appears to be a nursery web spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Pisaurina - see http://www.canadianarachnology.org/data/canada_spiders/images/habitus/Pisaurina_mira.jpg for an image. Like their close relatives the wolf spiders, these spiders sometimes are found indoors where they have wandered in search of food. Basically harmless to humans, large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1760 I found these in the cupboards of my apartment. Are they evidence of some type of pest or am I being paranoid? MCG
Difficult to say what this is - did you try cutting it open? It might be of either insect or fungal origin. If you have not done so already, you may want to break open this structure just to be sure that it is not an atypical/incipient termite tube. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1759 Hi, From the screams of my fiancée, we found this spider on the basement wall. We live in Ottawa, Ontario. I have tried to find the spider online, but no success. Sorry about the poor photos, I tried to take photos without our good friend escaping. If you could identify this spider, it would be much appreciated. Thanks, Kim
This appears to be a parson spider (Herpyllus ecclesiasticus; Araneida: Gnaphosidae);
See http://www.forestryimages.org/browse/imgdown.cfm?img=2154065&res=3 for an image. They commonly are found indoors where they have wandered in search of prey; they are active hunters that do not spin capture webs. Bites from this spider usually are of no consequence, but a few people have reported localized swelling and itching at the bite site. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1758 This spider picture was taken by my daughter who lives in Northeast Mississippi. She tried doing a search to find out what kind of spider it is but was unsuccessful. Thanks for any help on identifying it. Hazel
This appears to be a male southern black widow spider (Latrodectus mactans) that has lost some of its legs; see http://www.cirrusimage.com/Lynette/black_widow_001.jpg for an intact specimen and http://www.cirrusimage.com/spider_black_widow.htm for more detailed information on this species. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1757 I saw this little guy in the woods behind our house. We live in Middle Tennessee.

On close inspection, he has the body shape and legs like a tick. And I got that "Ick a tick!!" feeling when I saw him. But he wasn't sleek like a tick. His body looked soft. Any ideas? Thanks! Vickie fowler
This could be a velvet mite in the genus Allothrombium (Acari: Trombidiidae); see http://www.insectimages.org/browse/detail.cfm?imgnum=2167022 for an image. These mites are predaceous on other small arthropods, such as scale insects and spider mites. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1756 Is this a larder beetle and how should I get rid of them? Lorrie

This is indeed a larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius; Coleoptera: Dermestidae. See no. 1733 for another example, and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2119.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1755 Hi,I have attached 2 pictures of an insect for identification please! It measures approx 25mm in length, and was found in Ireland. He resembles the Devils Coach Horse Beetle a bit but I don’t think he is exactly the same. I would appreciate any help with the identification, Kind Regards, Dr. Brenda Lennon, Executive Chemist, Public Analyst's Laboratory, Galway.

This appears to be a large ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) that has had its wings removed by someone/something.
See http://www.bugsandweeds.co.uk/beetles/ground beetle 2.jpg for an image of an intact specimen. The vast majority of ground beetles are predaceous on other small arthropods, and thus usually considered beneficial. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1754 Hi there, I live in New York City in a small studio apartment. Recently I have been afflicted with bugs that bite in the night and have not been able to find any evidence of any bug that resembles a bedbug. This bug in the picture is the only type I have found. I have seen about 10 of them. I sleep in a wooden loft bed and have found them there in proximity to my mattress. Any ideas what it might be? I have been getting bitten regularly. Thank you! Cyrus.
This is a larva of a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), which would not be responsible for any bites. They feed on a very wide variety of animal-derived products, including hair, fur, hides (such as taxidermy specimens), wool, silk, accumulations of dead insects, etc.; they may even attack some dried food products in pantries.
See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. As for bed bugs, because of their secretive habits and nocturnal feeding, they may be difficult to detect until an infestation becomes extensive. See http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/ef636.asp for detailed information on these pests. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1753 Since the warming trend started we have these bugs mostly in our carpet down stairs and they like to crawl under things on the floor most we find are dead and many are alive, the story by the lady in Saskatoon and then moved to Calgary fits our bugs description, I am enclosing two photo's one with the bug upside down and one right side up, our carpet is a light brown and they are hard to see on this carpet., the carpet has a very short nap. What are they? and how do you control them? we have been spraying Household Raid along the base boards. Larry, Moosomin, Sask.

Yes, these are sow bugs, the same as # 1748. Spraying pesticides will only kill the ones you see but they will continue to invade your space until you correct the cause: too much moisture. Read more about sow bugs.

1752 We live in Australia in a tropical climate and have found a nest under our dining table. We are not sure how long it has been there. We just noticed parts of it fallen onto the chair below. We would like to know what it might be before touching it... Any help will be appreciated.. Danielle and Ben.
These are ‘nests’ made by solitary wasps, most likely spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) - see http://www.brisbaneinsects.com/brisbane_wasps/Palmdart.htm, although nests of some potter wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae; subfamily Eumeninae) can appear quite similar - see http://www.geocities.com/brisbane_wasps/Eumeninae.htm. Although they can sting if mishandled, they are not aggressive like some social wasps. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

1751 Our family was camping at Blomidon Provincial Park in Nova Scotia when we noticed these flies. They only really appeared around the site when we were cooking and would even sit on the spoon while we were stirring, but they never seemed to touch the food and didn't appear to have any interest in biting us. Would like to know who our cooking buddies were. Loretta
The photo is too fuzzy for a definitive i.d.; this could belong to one of several families, including snipe flies (Rhagionidae; see http://www.cirrusimage.com/Flies/snipe_fly4.jpg for an image) and stiletto flies (Therevidae; see http://www.faculty.ucr.edu/~legneref/adults/gif/there1c.adu.gif for an image). If you encounter them again, try to get a clearer photo. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1750 Hi, I hope you can help me out with this. My girlfriend and I were sitting in our apartment in Kaohsiung, Taiwan (southern part of the island, typically hot, dry climate) and about 7:30pm, we noticed 20-30 or so of this strange bug coming into the apartment through a hole near the sliding glass door out to our balcony. They were crawling on the walls and the floor. I would say it looks like a cross between an ant and a wasp, but I'm not really sure what it is....any help would be greatly appreciated. Cheers, Walter

These could be reproductive caste termites that have shed their wings; see http://www.utoronto.ca/forest/termite/Azores/index19.gif for an image. I suggest that you contact a professional pest management company for a termite inspection of your premises - see http://www.pestworld.org/For-Consumers/Find-a-Pro/Country/Taiwan for a listing of some. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
These insects appear to be dealated (wings broken off) swarmers or male and female reproductive castes of termites. Soon after landing, these termites break off their wings and then crawl wherever they go. The one(s) pictured here probably crawled under a door or window and entered the living area or it may be possible they emerged from the structure in which they were found. Noel. Texas AgriLife Extension Service

1749 I live in Indianapolis, IN and I started finding these bugs in my kitchen at the end of March. The weather varies from very cold to warm this time of year (it changes every couple of days). Both bugs are extremely small (about 1-2 mm in length). The first picture shows a small black bug with exposed wings. I usually find these dead on my stove and kitchen floor, and I've only seen a few alive. I haven't seen them flying around at all. The next picture shows a brown bug, slightly larger than the black ones, with a rounded body and covered (beetle-like?) wings. I've been finding fewer brown bugs than black, but both seem to be staying in the kitchen, especially near the windows. Neither bugs seem particularly attracted to food -- the cat's food and cookies are always in the kitchen and I haven't found the bugs around them. We just moved into this house and I'd like to get rid of these insects before they become a problem. Any information about them would be appreciated. Thank you! -Danna
The one on the left appears to be a small wasp parasitic on other insects; no control is recommended or needed. The beetle on the right could be a pantry pest such as the cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne; Coleoptera: Anobiidae); see http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2083.html for a fact sheet that includes images and control recommendations. The larvae of these beetles will feed on a very wide range of products, including all manner of grain products, spices, dried fruit, and woolen cloth, so you need to inspect just about every item in your pantry and other food storage areas to be sure that you do not have an infestation. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1748 I had these in my groundfloor apartment when I lived in Saskatoon, and now that I am renting a house in Calgary I have found them in my basement. The basement has short carpet, our mainfloor is hardwood and we haven't seen many upstairs. They started to appear as it thawed out outside, and we have found them hiding in blankets on the floor if we leave them there. We don't know what they are or what to do about them. What are they, and is there any way to combat and/or prevent them? Thank you. Mikayla.
These are terrestrial crustaceans called sowbugs; harmless scavengers on decaying organic matter. They breath through gills that must be kept moist, and thus are quite susceptible to dessication. Therefore, the best preventive/control measure is moisture control in and around your home. See http://www.pestcontrolcanada.com/sow_bugs.htm for more information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1747 Michael from Garden City, NY I found about 500 of these dead on my windowsill March 20th. They are about 2cm long. Haven't seen another one since.
I could not get the image to enlarge so that the wing venation would be visible, but this might be a fungus gnat (Diptera: Sciaridae); they are commonly found indoors when plant containers with damp, organic-rich soil are present. See http://lancaster.unl.edu/enviro/Images/Insects/Flies/fungusgnat.jpg for an image and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2114.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1746 I have seen several of these in smaller size around my apartment, and took this picture tonight of this big guy. Hope it is clear. Does anyone know what this is? Thanks in advance. Jon.
This is a house centipede (Scutigera coleoptrata), a common ‘guest’ in human dwellings. They are voracious predators on other small arthropods, and large specimens are capable of inflicting a painful bite if mishandled. See no. 1595 for another example, and http://i.pbase.com/o4/90/516390/1/61400403.1393web.jpg for an image. Additional information can be found at http://www.pestcontrolcanada.com/INSECTS/Centipedes.htm. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1745 Hi, These started to appear around my lights, 10-15 a day about 2 weeks ago. They especially like the fluorescent one. They are poor flyers, mostly ending up on their backs. They are 2-3mm, reddish black. Beetle like, wings beneath shell. I'm in Ottawa. Can you identify & suggest a control? Thanks -- Vogon
This appears to be a bark/engraver beetle in the family Scolytidae - see http://imfc.cfl.scf.rncan.gc.ca/insg/010422g.jpg and http://www.co.jefferson.co.us/jeffco/weed_images/MPB15.JPG for examples. The larvae of these beetles feed beneath the bark of many tree species, often forming complex galleries (see http://www.invasive.org/images/768x512/1231222.jpg and http://insectzoo.msstate.edu/Images/col-k-7.jpg for examples), and some species can be very destructive forestry pests. There is very little one can do as far as control is concerned other than the removal and burning of infested trees (see http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7421.html). Fortunately, they will do no damage to structures. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1744 Hello, I found this in the garden. It wasn’t there yesterday. Do you have any idea what it is please? It looks really scary. Is it dangerous? Thank you so much!

This is a slime mold, variously (mis)classified as a fungus or even an animal; they now are placed in a group called Protoctistans. (They also may be found referred to as Mycetozoa.) They have a complex life cycle, mostly out of sight of humans, usually becoming visible when ready to reproduce. See http://www.uoguelph.ca/~gbarron/Myxos/myxappen.htm and http://botit.botany.wisc.edu/toms_fungi/june99.html for more detailed information on these fascinating organisms. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1743 Hello, I'm from Southern California, about 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean. I found this spider in my house and was wondering what kind it was. It's about
1/4 inch in total length (legs + body, maybe a little bigger, but no bigger than a 1/2 inch). It has a brown cephalothorax and legs, and a darker brown/black abdomen. It appears to have fairly prominent eyes and very tiny hairs all over the abdomen and legs, but no hair on the cephalothorax. My guess is that it's harmless, but I would still like to know what's crawling around my house. Thanks! Derek, Orange County, CA.
Although I cannot specifically identify this spider, it does not appear to be any species that would be of medical concern. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1742 We live in Green Bay WI. We started seeing these "flies" in October, quite a few less during the coldest part of the winter, and then in March we started seeing more of them. They are inside the house in all rooms and do not seem to be concentrated anywhere. They are slow moving and leave a nasty black spot on the wall when they are hit. Thank you. Carl in Green Bay, WI
This is a moth fly (Diptera: Psychodidae). Also known as drain flies, filter flies, or sewer flies, their larvae feed on decaying organic matter such as the slimy film that can build up in floor drains and the like. They do no harm, but usually are considered nuisance pests when they occur indoors. See no. 1656 for another example and http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/iiin/mothfli.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1741 Can anyone tell me what this is? Jeff.
This a male luna moth (Actias luna; Lepidoptera: Saturniidae); its feathery antennae can detect molecules of the pheromone released by female moths over quite long distances. The adult moths do not feed, and live for only a week or so; just long enough to find mates and reproduce. For more information on these lovely insects, see http://www.ivyhall.district96.k12.il.us/4th/kkhp/1insects/luna.html. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

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1740 What kind of bug is this? Thomas.

These appear to be varied carpet beetles (Anthrenus verbasci; Coleoptera: Dermestidae). The adult beetles primarily are pollen feeders, but their larvae will attack a wide variety of materials of animal origin, including woolen and silk fabrics, hides, furs, feathers, etc. See nos. 1726 and 1722 for other examples and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1739 This dude is reproducing on my ceramic tile lower lever bathroom floor. It seems like it has hopping capabilities and appears to have a bifurcated tail. The critter is tiny, measuring perhaps twice the diameter of a human hair. The snap was shot under a field scope at 35x. Any suggestions. Black Earth, Wisconsin. Greg.

This is a primitive arthropod in the order Collembola, family Entomobryidae (many systemists no longer consider collembolans as true insects). Commonly called springtails, many species are capable of leaping quite long distances in proportion to their body size by means of a specialized structure on their abdomen called a furca or furcula. In your photo, the furca is in its extended position; see http://www.stevehopkin.co.uk/collembolagallery/Isotoma/ISvir_ISO_3.17.jpg for an image showing the furca in the folded (ready for action) position. With very few exceptions, springtails are harmless scavengers, at most being considered nuisance pests when they occur en masse in or around homes. As springtails are very susceptible to dessication, most problems with them can be avoided through moisture control. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1738 Here is a photo I took last summer of a bug our cat had caught. This happened in Crimea, Ukraine. It died shortly after. It was about 4 cm long. None of the neighbors could identify it. If anyone knows what this is, I would love to find out. Yuliya, Montreal, QC

This is a cicada (Hemiptera [Auchenorrhyncha]: Cicadidae). Their immature stage (nymph) usually lasts for several years, spent underground feeding on plant roots. When mature, the nymphs emerge (usually at night), and climb some nearby object to shed their ‘skin.’ The adults rest for a few hours to allow their new exoskeleton to harden, then fly off in search of mates and suitable oviposition sites. They live only long enough to mte and lay eggs. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1737 Hi , I am in SW Florida and found a lot of these little buggers in cocoons around my windows. Are they good bugs or are they pests? Should I knock them down? Thanks.

I cannot be certain, but this caterpillar may be in the family Arctiidae, such as the yellow bear, Spilosoma virginica - see http://www.pbase.com/tmurray74/image/28416501 for an example. Most members of this family seldom cause any real damage to the plants they feed upon, but exceptions occur, such as the fall webworm and hickory tussock moth. You might try taking some specimens to your county office of the University of Florida’s Cooperative Extension service (see http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/map/ for contact information) for assistance in identification. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1736 We found this fly in our campsite in Quetico Provincial Park, Ontario, last July. Does anyone know what it is? Thanks, Diana.
This appears to be an orange-patched smoky moth, Pyromorpha dimidiata (Lepidoptera: Zygaenidae) - see http://www.biology.duke.edu/dnhs/pics/moth2.JPG for an image. This species bears a striking resemblance to some beetles in the family Lycidae (net-winged beetles). These beetles are distasteful (some are toxic as well), and many other insects, including beetles, moths, and flies, mimic their colour patterns. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1735 The picture of this bug was taken in Livermore ca the bug is on a pumpkin plant we are growing outside. Thanks for info on what it is. Mike
This is a larva of a lady beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). For the most part, they are voracious predators on other small arthropods such as aphids. As with many large families, there are a few miscreants; in this family, those include species in the genus Epilachna (Mexican bean beetle and squash beetle); however, their larvae are quite different in appearance from your specimen (see http://www.entomology.cornell.edu/Extension/DiagnosticLab/IDLFS/MexicanBeanBeetle/images/1326150_sm.jpg). Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi question 1735 is a Ladybird larva and 1738 is a Cicada. thanks, Iain.

1734 This is a picture of two insects that we are finding in our home. We live in Eastern Ontario, we usually only find these insects in our home in the winter time any help you can give in identification would be appreciated. Gerry
These are cockroaches, and assuming that the markings on the ruler are metric, they most likely are wood cockroaches (Parcoblatta spp.). They likely entered you home in search of overwintering shelter. Unlike their peridomestic cousins, they will not colonize indoors. See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2119.html for a fact sheet. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1733 I keep finding this bug in my house. Usually around the kitchen sink and other location where there is water (washroom). I also find them here and there. Could anybody tell me what they are and how can i get rid of them. Thanks in advance. Stephane. Bathurst NB.
This appears to be a pantry pest known as a larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius; Coleoptera: Dermestidae). See http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/iiin/blarderb.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1732 Hi there, We found this spider in our children's bedroom in Bangkok December 2006. We were living on the 7th floor at the time so this species must be good climbers. Do you have any ideas what it may be ?? Thank you very much. Sally and James

This is a mygalomorph spider, an infraorder that includes tarantulas, purseweb, and trapdoor spiders among others. Some spiders in this group will wander long distances, particularly males in search of mates. Although fearsome in appearance, their bite usually is no worse that a bee or wasp sting. The only truly dangerous species belong to the family Hexathelidae and occur in Australia. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1731 My daughter found this bug outside while playing - she's a bug freak lol. We live in Canada, British Columbia to be more specific (Near Vancouver). I don't know much about this bug other than what it looks like. If I could find out what this was, I'd be thrilled and so would my daughter. Thank you. Fawn
This appears to be a western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis; Hemiptera [Heteroptera]: Coreidae). They commonly are found indoors where they have sought overwintering shelter. You can find several other examples on this site, starting with no. 1677 and scrolling down. (NB - Some systemists now consider the order Hemiptera to include all insects previously placed in the order Homoptera, with what had been Hemiptera now placed in the suborder Heteroptera, and what had been Homoptera now split into three suborders, Auchenorrhyncha, Sternorrhyncha, and Coleorrhyncha; the latter not occurring in North America.) Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

1730 I'm attaching some more pics taken in a digital camera. hope it would be helpful. I viewed some of the insects parts under the microscope, so some parts may be missing. I live in Sri Lanka & the dead insect was located inside an empty tea packet. The two appendages in the abdomen have hairs. the leg have spines. a short antennae found. Please let me know what insect this is or even what family it belongs to. Thank you, Rgds. Lallini
Unfortunately, I cannot assign a family designation to this specimen because of its fragmentary condition. About all I can say is that the combination of the relatively long slender cerci and mention of spiny legs should place it among the orthopteroid insects (crickets, grasshoppers, cockroaches, etc.). Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

1729 Hi I found this bug on my bed this morning. I have looked at images of bedbugs and this looks nothing like it. I was wondering if anyone knows what it is before I throw out my bed (ha ha). I live on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Thank-you. Carla

This appears to be a bristletail, a primitive insect in the order Thysanura, that has lost most of its appendages. Common household invaders in this order include silverfish and firebrats; they usually are considered nuisance pests as they seldom cause any real damage. See no. 1671 for an intact example, and http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7475.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1728 What is this bug? Gary A.
This is a pseudoscorpion, a small arachnid related to spiders, scorpions, ticks, etc; they are general predators on other small arthropods and completely harmless to humans. See no. 1537 for another example and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2062.html for a fact sheet with additional information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1727 Hi, we live in Southern California by the beach. We found this bug on our living room floor and it gave us quite a shock. We thought it might be a wasp of some sort, but didn't see noticeable wings. It's about an inch long, 1 1/2" - 2" with antennae. Looks like it had a stinger. Is it dangerous? Thanks, Colleen
This is a relative of grasshoppers and crickets often referred to as Jerusalem crickets, potato bugs, and Niña de la Tierra among other common names. They belong to the family Stenopelmatidae and are omnivores, feeding on other arthropods, plant roots, etc. They seldom do any real damage and are harmless to humans (notwithstanding the occasional painful bite if you mishandle one). The ‘stinger’ you saw either is an ovipositor (I cannot see the abdomen tip in the photos) or one of its cerci (paired sensory organs at the end of the abdomen) that can be seen. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1726 About three days ago I found a two small bugs with a hard shell and I couldn’t figure out what it was and I looked online but no luck so far but then today I saw one on top of my bed and I looked around and I found another one within a one foot of the other one. I think these bugs might travel in twos or something. As I recall I found one of these bugs on my window sill about a year ago but didn’t find any more. I have searched and searched and can’t figure out where there’re coming from. If someone could identify what kind of bug it is, how to get rid of it, and where they come from that would be very much appreciated. By the way I live in Washington. Thanks in ahead. Kyle K.
This appears to be another varied carpet beetle (Anthrenus verbasci; Coleoptera: Dermestidae); their larvae can be quite destructive to many materials of animal origin, including woolen fabrics. See no. 1722 for another example and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1725 Hello. I found this pest under my bed. Unfortunately it looks like it has been there a while (now that I've blown up the photo, it looks like it is starting to decompose!), but I'm hoping you can identify it by the shape. I am in Toronto, Canada, and have been in this house for five years. Other than the occasional spider, this house has been relatively pest free. I did some further searching and it appears to be an assassin bug masked hunter. Is it? And, if so, does it present any threat? I have occasionally seen much smaller (and live) insects which might be nymph assassin bugs. Could we have an infestation? Thanks again - by the way, this is a fantastic site. Thanks, Christine
This does indeed appear to be a late instar nymph of the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus; Hemiptera: Reduviidae) - see http://www.invasive.org/browse/detail.cfm?imgnum=5082088 for an image. They are capable of inflicting a very painful ‘bite’ if mishandled; see http://www.ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/maskedHunter.htm for more detailed information, including control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1724 Found in our kitchen March 16,08 in Consort Alberta. Can you help identify if. Pat Gilmer
This appears to be a male ichneumonid wasp (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae). These wasps are parasitic on other insects and are harmless to humans. See http://www.pbase.com/tmurray74/ichneumon_wasps for images of many different species in this family. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1723 Last fall, we had a few weeks where these beetles were all over the outside of the house and garage doors. We didn’t see may in the house and killed any we found. Now, for the last few weeks on warmer days we are finding them inside. Is this something we need to spray for or will they die out naturally? Thanks in advance for the help. Peter - Bolton , Ontario

These are boxelder bugs that crawled into cracks and crevices on the exterior of your home last fall. They are now emerging into the warmth of your home, thinking it is spring. As it warms up outside, they will head in that direction to start another summer cycle then head back to your home in the fall. They are harmless so there is no need for pesticides. Use a vacuum cleaner. For more information and control suggestions see our web page: Box Elder Bugs See also #1678 below.

1722 My wife found one of these in the living room this morning and another one in the dining room this afternoon. I thought I saw one on the wall the other day, but it was so small I did nothing about it.
Searching for more this evening we came up with a lot of them by the sliding glass door(30+ bugs). My 2 year old son is finding more every minute and is starting to get scared. It really looks like the infestation started recently. They all seem to be on the carpet near the baseboards but definitely not restricted to that area. They are very small with yellow or greenish spots. No matter how much I poke them, they won't fly. We have no indoor animals. We usually have an ant problem so we have the outside of our house sprayed every 3 months. They just sprayed 4 days ago. I see a lot of dead ants around the perimeter of the house, but none of these bugs. I need to know what this is since we have a 1 week old daughter that just came home. Please help. -Josh. Bay Area, California

These appear to be a varied carpet beetles (Anthrenus verbasci; Coleoptera: Dermestidae) - see http://www.kendall-bioresearch.co.uk/BEETLE102.gif for an image. The larvae of these beetles will feed on a wide variety of materials of animal origin, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hides, leathers, accumulations of dead insects, etc., and may even attack some pantry items such as cereals and dry pet food. (The adults primarily are pollen feeders, and will attempt to escape outdoors.) You should check the edges of installed carpeting ( as well as under throw rugs) for signs of the larvae or their feeding damage. See www.forestryimages.org/images/192x128/2154097.jpg for an image of a larva and http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet on carpet beetles that includes control recommendations. The only health threat posed by these insects is that ingestion of the larvae of some species (mostly in the genus Trogoderma) can cause irritation of the gastric mucosa.Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

1721 I'm guessing a Gypsy Moth chrysalis? pupa? Are either of those the correct term? It is about 1-1/2" long. I found them when pulling up my sod. I'm in Southern Ontario CANADA. Thanks. Cory S.

This is a moth pupa (the term "chrysalis" usually refers to a butterfly pupa), and as you found it in the soil, it would be extremely unlikely for it to be a gypsy moth. Their larvae usually seek some above ground shelter (such as under flakes of bark or in bark crevices) in which to pupate. Yours could be a pupa of a noctuid moth, such as an army worm. See http://www.fs.fed.us/ne/morgantown/4557/gmoth/cycle/life6.jpg for a gypsy moth pupa and http://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/html/em/em8919/images/em891902-01.jpg for a pupa of an army worm. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1720 Hello from Victoria, BC. This spider was upstairs in the bathroom (with a few friends just like him!). I have also seen them on the ceiling in the bedrooms (also upstairs). A week ago, I woke up with a bite on the back of my arm. The bite made the whole back of my upper arm firm, hot, and itchy. Can you identify this one? Do these spiders bite when squished? Do they eat dust mites? Thanks for your help. Angelique
Although I do not recognize this particular spider, it does not appear to be any of the species considered to be of medical importance to humans. That aside, nearly any spider will attempt to bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1719 Please let me know what this is. Found in the Northern part of Israel in a house.
You might feel like looking at some more..http://www.pbase.com/raphaels/bugs_and_such
Thank you , Ray

This is a parasitic wasp in the family Ichneumonidae; likely in the subfamily Ophioninae. Members of this subfamily primarily are parasitic on the larvae of moths, and females usually have a short, sharp ovipositor and larger species can deliver a pinprick-like ‘sting’ if handled carelessly (I can personally attest to this). Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1718 I have found 3 of these in my daughter’s bedroom in the last 2 days, near Seattle, WA. We found the first one after she put on some pants that had been laying on the floor, and she was bit/stung by one. It did welt a little, but she is fine. I thought it was just a fly until I saw the second and realized how large it is, about ½ inch long. Also, they don’t fly much, just walk around. I can easily have them walk onto paper etc, they don’t seem to be bothered by much. Thanks. Daniel J.
This appears to be a miner/digger bee in the subfamily Anthophorinae, tribe Eucerini - see http://pick5.pick.uga.edu/mp/20p?see=I_JSA6 for an image. Bees in this tribe often are called ‘long-horned bees’ as their antennae are much longer than in most other bees. They are solitary in nature, nesting in burrows in the ground, and can be valuable pollinators - see http://www.newfarm.org/research/2005/mar05/pollinator.shtml Their occurrence indoors is strictly accidental. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1717 Usually on clothing or fabrics.. They fly. Anthony
This is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in the genus Anthrenus; likely the variegated carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci -
see http://www.kendall-bioresearch.co.uk/BEETLE102.gif for an image. The larvae of these beetles (see http://www.ikari.co.jp/gaicyu/uimg/09020.jpg) will feed on just about anything of animal origin, including wool, silk, hair, fur, leather, etc. See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2103.html for a fact sheet on carpet beetles that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1716 hey there. my girlfriend and i have recently been noticing many of the little dudes hanging around our apartment. it is winter and we're in Nova Scotia. They seem to be attracted to light, but they stay mostly on walls and ceiling in light areas. they are, at most, 3-5 mm long. they have bodies similar to ants, but with long thin tails jutting out their annoying butts. The one in the photos has about half the length of tail that most of them seem to have. They are very sluggish, and mainly just crawl around and occasionally fly. They seem pretty harmless but they're darn annoying! any insight as to what they might be, or how to get rid of them? thanks!
This is a wasp that is parasitic on other insects and is completely harmless to humans. Its ‘tail’ is an ovipositor, used to place its eggs in its intended host. See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hygfact/2000/2113.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1715 Hi, I live in Singapore, in Southeast Asia and I found these bugs in my house - on the mattress and in my cabinets. They can jump really high for their size. They are tiny, around 1mm in length. I believe they are responsible for the very itchy red bites that I have gotten on my arms, torso area and on my legs. Could you tell me what these are and how I can control them? Thanks a bunch! Luke.
These appear to be book lice (order Psocoptera); those in the family Liposcelide have greatly enlarged hind femora (I cannot be certain of this in your photos). It is extremely unlikely that these insects would have anything to do with your bite symptoms, as they feed either on starchy materials (such as the sizing in book bindings) or mould spores. Primarily considered nuisance pests, they occasionally may be pantry pests. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1714 Hi, I live in St. Catharines On., Canada. I was taking some close up photos of my mom's African Violets when I found this little critter munching on one of the petals.
Does anyone know what it is? It is really tiny. I noticed another crawling across anther and it looked like it had clear wings (maybe the adult stage, it was too fast for me to get a picture). They don't look like green garden aphids.
This appears to be an immature thrips (order Thysanoptera); see http://plantpath.wisc.edu/~tlg/moreinfo2_files/thrips.jpg for an image that included both nymphs and adults. They are common pests on African violets. You may want to check out http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/afrviolet/msg021030072431.html for ideas on controlling them. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1713 I was wondering if you can help me identify these bugs that I found in my house...the pics are attached.. Thank you, Ashley Scott

Because of the angle from which the photo was taken, I cannot be certain, but this beetle could be one of those found in cereal/grain-derived food products, such as the flat grain beetle (Cryptolestes pusillus; Coleoptera: Cucujidae); see http://insects.tamu.edu/extension/youth/bug/images/USDA_ARS_GMPRC_m_FgbAd_flatgrainbeetle.jpg for an image. Just in case, you may wish to inspect any infestable food items in your pantry for signs of insect infestation. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1712 Hi, I live in Mississauga, Ontario. This landed on my kitchen counter yesterday.
I didn't know at the time if it had flown or dropped from somewhere. It looked like a small stick, completely straight, almost like a piece of thin, mechanical-pencil lead. I was surprised to see that under magnification its body was segmented and it looks like a wasp or ant. It is very small though. Any information you have would be appreciated.
Thanks, Heidi
This is a wasp; likely in the superfamily Chalcidoidea; a grouping of many families of small to minute wasps that for the most part are parasitic on other insects. They are characterized by greatly reduced wing venation and elbowed antennae - see http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/foresthealth/pubs/spb_assoc/images/fig63.jpg for an example. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1711 I have this rather "cute" orange spider in my front garden. It appears to have no head, and is bright orange. It is about 1.5 inches long in the body and 3 inches long tip to tip. thanks for your help. Kind regards Danielle Storey

The photo is too fuzzy for a determination. Also, what is the geographic area where the spider was photographed? Although the overall shape of the spider is similar to some species in the family Philodromidae (running crab spiders), they usually are much smaller than the dimensions given here. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1710 Hello, This insect was found outdoors near the border between Tennessee and Georgia around August of 2007. It was nearly 2” long and its bottom was nearly white. I had never seen anything like it. Any ideas as to what it might be? Thanks! -Cory

This is a cicada (Homoptera: Cicadidae); appearing to be one of the so-called ‘dog-day’ cicadas that have a much shorter underground nymphal stage (usually one to four years) than that of the periodical cicadas. See nos. 1689 and 1555 for other examples. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1709 Hi! We live in West-Hungary (in a small village, Cák), just now finished with recovery an old houses, and moved in, and we see recently many of these larva (?) on the walls and on the floor. They are cca. 4-6 mm long, and 1 mm wide. If someone can tell what they are and how to control them, I would be very grateful. Thanks Peter
This is a beetle larva, but it does not appear to be any of those species considered as household pests. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1708 Hello, I live in Westchester County NY. I found this gross spider in my bathtub. It was pretty big as you can tell from the drain. I was wondering what kind it was.

This is a male spider, likely in the family Agelenidae (funnel web/grass spiders). They often are found in homes, and some in the genus Tegenaria can have a leg span exceeding three inches, thus usually attracting attention. Although the bite of one species in this genus (T. agrestis, the so-called ‘hobo spider’) has been associated with slow-healing skin lesions, the jury still appears to be out on this issue (see http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7488.html). Nevertheless, large specimens still are capable of delivering a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1707 This spider was found in our living room in Breckenridge, CO. Our six year old son has a bug vacuum and was very excited to be able to use it to capture this gal. I've never seen this pattern on a spider around here before. I though maybe it is an orb weaver; but, not sure? Heather.
This does not appear to be an orb-weaving spider, but unfortunately, the image is not clear enough to permit a definite i.d. There are many spiders that can be found inside dwellings, but only the widow spiders and the brown recluse are truly dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1706 These are much enlarged photos of a bug found in my bedroom. I may have brought it in with some new polyester pillows I just purchased. The filling is polyester fiber fill and the shells are cotton. The photos were taken on our microfiche processor so they are much enlarged. In actuality the bugs are almost too small to see. Any help you can provide will be appreciated. VGA
These are thrips (order Thysanoptera); accidental intruders in your house. The vast majority of thrips are herbivores, some species being important plant pests; a few are predaceous other very small arthropods. See http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7429.html for more information. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1705 This flying creature was found in El Cajon, California (near San
Diego) on Feb. 25, 2008. Any ideas? Thanks for such an informative web site.
This is a stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae); it bears some resemblance to those in the genus Brochymena - see http://www.dirtdoctor.com/view_question.php?id=666. These stink bugs are predaceous on other small arthropods, especially caterpillars.

1704 We are hoping that someone might help us identify this bug. We live in central New Jersey and have recently spotted these tiny bugs in the house. They are approx 3mm in length. They appear to have a long snout and are solid black. Thanks in advance for any help. Allison
These could be granary weevils (Sitophilus spp.; Coleoptera: Curculionidae). These weevils usually infest whole grains (rice, wheat, rye, barley, corn, dried beans, bird seed, etc.), but they also can infest some pasta products such as macaroni. I suggest that you inspect your pantry and any other food storage areas for signs of infestation and take appropriate steps if anything is found.
See http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2088.html for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1703 found this bed on my pillow right in front of my face in the morning. Would really appreciate some help figuring out what it is. I live in New York city, NY in the US. Hope someone can help. Thank you! Brett.
This is a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Ptinidae); possibly the shiny spider beetle, Gibbium psylloides - see http://www.ento.psu.edu/ImageGallery/Images/ShinySpiderBeetle01dorsal.jpg for an image and no. 1644 for another example. These beetles will feed on a wide variety of organic materials including many dry food products as well as accumulations of dead insects, debris in bird/rodent nests, etc.. Control therefore can be difficult because of their very broad diet.
See http://www.ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/spiderbeetle.htm for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1702 Could you ID this little critter for us. I have reviewed all of the submitted photos and found nothing like this one. We live in Kelowna BC and found this bug in February. White drywall dust was emanating from beneath a window sill about 8" from the heated slab on grade floor and when I touched the window trim about two dozen of these bugs fell to the floor. The bug is about 5mm in length and the visible scale is in mm. Thanks in advance. Stephen. Kelowna, BC

You have a termite infestation (yes, they can occur in Canada - see http://www.utoronto.ca/forest/termite/tips6.htm). I suggest that you contact a control company in your area; see http://www.pestcontrolcanada.com/British Columbia pest control.htm. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.

1701 Hey there, I recently started finding these bugs in my kitchen, they're coming through a hole in the wall from our neighbors apartment. They look like roaches, but since we're in Alberta, Canada roaches aren't exactly common, especially to start showing up in the middle of winter. Is there any way you can tell me what this might be specifically? The backs are dark, with maybe one small lighter-brown patch in the middle. Kristen
This definitely is a cockroach; they can thrive just about anywhere indoors as long as their temperature and humidity requirements are made. When I was a student at North Dakota State University, there were thriving populations of American cockroaches (Periplaneta americanum - see http://www.entomology.cornell.edu/Extension/DiagnosticLab/IDLFS/Cockroaches/images/1435178.jpg ) in several steam-heated buildings. You should contact your apartment management to have a control program initiated. Ed Saugstad, retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV.
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