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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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What is this pest?
Submit photos of any pest you would like identified. Hopefully one of our visitors will be able to identify them.
How to send your photos.

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. Please Include the picture number in your answers.

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Click on the photos to enlarge. They are usually much clearer.

2945 Mainly Farmland. Taken after Midnight, Size: Approx 2" - 3" Warm: 80 degrees F Outdoors, across from a cornfield. Jennifer USA State: Maryland City: Westminster County: Carroll

2944 I found this moth on my mints. I am curious to find out what kind it is because it doesn't look like a regular one. Can you tell me what kind it is? Thank you in advance. Ken

2943 Hi Folks, A good friend of mine found this beetle/weevil in beautiful Aamjiwanaang First Nations near Sarnia Ontario Canada today, June 14th. It was on a plant but it did not seem interested in eating it. I could not nudge it to fly ( I assume it is winged) and I was surprised it its length of almost 2 inches and its girth /weight for an insect. Please advise if you have an idea of what it is, Thanks, Henk

2942 Taken in the backyard in Orleans, Ontario (part of Ottawa) in early June 2010, a bug never before seen (by me anyway!). Weather conditions are sunny. Did not observe it feeding - it just landed and then flew away. What is it? Thanks - Michèle

2941 This little guy was in my TV room in South Delta, BC... mid-June. I was intrigued by his bright colour...any idea what it is? Doug

2940 We have recently moved and for the first few weeks we did not see these little guys but lately I have been seeing a LOT of them. They seem to come out mostly at night and in each room. They don't seem to really fly, but use their wings to glide but I could be wrong. We have a young boy (17 months) and I want to ensure that they don't bite and find out how to get rid of them altogether. We live in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Thanks, Crys

2939 Hello, I have been wondering what these moths are called. They gather in numbers on our Ivory Silk lilacs and also on the Goatsbeards. The wings are sooty black and there is blue iridescence on the body... and, are they likely to do any damage to the plants? I know they're not uncommon, but I can't find them in my identification books. The month is June, and we are at the eastern end of Southern Ontario.
Many thanks, Beverley

2938 Hi my name is Bryan I live near Barrie Ontario. I had a maple tree die this spring so I cut it down and I found two of these bugs on the tree. I wouldn't mind known what they are and if they were the cause of the tree dying.

2937 hi can you please tell me what this is, there are a lot of them outside of my sons apartment in Belleville Ontario. Thanks Bonnie

2936 My name is Marian. I live in South Eastern Oklahoma close to the Texas border. It is mid June. Temp. has been in the 90’s during the day, 70-80 at night. I felt this bug land on my arm last night. I had just come inside. I brushed it off my arm and it stung my finger. The sting was quite painful. It caused swelling and itching ,also. Can anyone identify it? Thanks, Marian

2935 Found the attached in my garden in Qualicum Beach Vancouver Island, BC early June. Please let me know what it is. Thanks so much, Kim
This a bee in the family Halictidae; there are several genera that can have green species - see http://tinyurl.com/267b94b for an example. Known collectively as ‘sweat bees,’ they have a potent sting all out of proportion to their small size. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2934 I found this bug on our lilac bush today....June 12, 2010 in Berwyn, Alberta. We live 5 hours northwest of Edmonton & I have lived here all my life but have never seen this insect. It is about 1 to 1.5 inch long and acts like a bee sucking the nectar from the lilac. Can anyone help with the identification? Claire
This is a clear-winged sphinx moth (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in the genus Hemaris - see http://tinyurl.com/24ozf8b for a comparison of the species known from Alberta. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2933 This dragonfly was shot June 11, 2009 near Gatineau Park north of Ottawa, ON. These dragonflies are plentiful in several ponds in this region. I have not been able to identify it. I believe it was originally imported by a gardener...at least that is the legend around here. Adrienne
This appears to be a male chalk-fronted corporal (Libellula julia; Odonata: Libellulidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2efuqut for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2932 Hi, I found this bug today, June 13th outside in the flowers eating the pill bug. Is it a "good" bug since it is eating the pill bug? I live near Columbus, OH. Thanks for any information. Kathy
This is a nymph of a predaceous stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae); possibly in the genus Podisus (soldier bugs) - see http://tinyurl.com/26bxx7o for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2931 Hi my name is Mike and I live in Kamloops BC. I am wondering if you can identify this spider for me. I have found six of these so far, either on the ceiling or in the corner of my room.
About all I can say here is that this is a male spider, and is not a species dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2930 Hi, I found this on my 10th floor balcony in Toronto, Ontario, on November 4th, 2009. He was approximately 1 1/4" - 1 1/2" long and he was dead when I found him in a potting bin... Can anyone help me identify him? Thanks. - Christine
This is a scarab beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae); likely an Osmoderma sp. In the subfamily Cetoniinae - see http://tinyurl.com/2acfhus for an example. They are not pests; their larvae (grubs) develop in rotting wood, usually in cavities in hollow trees. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2929 This beetle I found on our fruit tree on the west coast, British Columbia. there are also tiny little silver bugs that look like pin head sized lady bugs, but they are silver with black dots, when the leaf is touched they drop off, look like young of this type I took picture of, don't know if good or bad bugs can you help?
This is not a beetle, but a stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), but I cannot provide a specific identification. This family includes both plant pests and predaceous species. Is it all possible for you to provide an image of the smaller insects you mentioned? Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2928 Hi. I live in Toronto, Ontario and for the past few years these bugs have been appearing in my house every summer. They're fairly large and fly. I've wondered if they might be some type of breeder ant, but they seem too large for that. Thanks, Daniel-
This is an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae); they are general predators on other small arthropods. Although it resembles a peridomestic species (Reduvius personatus) known as the masked hunter (see http://tinyurl.com/egdfr), I cannot be absolutely certain. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2927 This is what is eating the leaves of our Johnson blue perennial geraniums. Sister Bay, Wisconsin, picture taken 6/11/10 in our perennial bed next to our slightly raise front porch. Dottie
This is a four-lined plant bug, Poecilocapsus lineatus (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Miridae) - see http://tinyurl.com/26uxzm4 for an image. They feed on a wide variety of plants; see http://tinyurl.com/2ag5nyv for a fact sheet. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2926 We have this bug in the house all over, maybe two or three per day. they may come up the drains, we find them in the bath tub sometimes. we have pets and these bugs seem to be eating crumbs and pieces of dog or cat food. they are hard shelled and I don't think they fly. they are always crawling when we spot them, they can run pretty fast too. William
This is a larder beetle, Dermestes lardarius (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); they feed on a wide variety of organic materials (including dry pet food). See http://tinyurl.com/23w7o5f for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2925 Hello, I took these pictures of a spider in our backyard here in Calgary around 2100 hrs on July 8 2010. What kind of spider is this? Thanks, Neil
This is an orb weaving spider (family Araneidae). It looks like a Neoscona sp.; possibly Neoscona abrabesca, a common spider whose color pattern can show considerable variation. If you Google images for that species, you will get some idea. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2924 What is this bug?? Illinois, found in the house 2 in one month, Sandy and Gary
This is an ailanthus webworm moth, Atteva punctella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2fopf5s for images and detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2923 Hi, My grandmother has found this in her house. She lives in Southwest Missouri and has found the bugs coming out around her sink and cabinet area in the kitchen during late spring into the summer months. The bugs come out mainly in the evenings and first thing early in the morning. The "larger" of the bugs is not more than a half of a millimeter long. She fogged her house with spray and also has a can of insecticide that she uses; however, the bug sprays seem to have no effect on these pests. As far as we can tell from other photos, the pests resemble an earwig, but do not look exactly the same. Thank you for the help. Sheri M, Missouri
This is a very young cockroach nymph, likely that of a German cockroach (Blattella germanica). See http://tinyurl.com/knhlzo for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2922 Hello, I found this spider in my pool shed 3 days ago. I live in Victoria Village in Toronto, near Eglington,. My house backs on to the Don ravine. This must be the largest spider I have ever seen in my 42 years in the city. Notice the loonie in the bucket with the spider for size reference. Sorry the colour is so dark, I should have made more effort with respect to lighting. I’m hoping someone might be able to identify it for me. I don’t think it is a wolf spider is it? It seems to big even for one of those. Kind regards, Scot
This is a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae); likely the dark fishing spider, Dolomedes tenebrosus - see http://tinyurl.com/233qp for an image. Large specimens can deliver a painful but not dangerous bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2921 I live in Ohio and this bug was found in one of my bathrooms this summer. In two days, I have found three total of these little critters, which I have never seen before. There is a full basement underneath this bathroom, and one wall of the room is an outside wall, which backs up to a wooded area. It doesn't seem to be a termite, but what can it be? Thanks, Kevin
This is an ant, not a termite. From its small size and the two-node petiole (‘waist’), it could be a thief ant or pharaoh ant. See http://tinyurl.com/yceyqe6 for a fact sheet on household ants of Ohio. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2920 Found in Abilene, Texas (West Texas). The bug is about an inch long, it was found on 16 July 2010, at about 0800, 79 degrees, sunny and clear. It flew into our hangar from the flight line which has large grassy areas in certain places. Thank you, Carmen
This is an owl fly (Neuroptera: Ascalaphidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/26bq5wx for an image. They are predaceous on other small arthropods; their larvae resemble ant lions, bu are ambush predators that hide in leaf litter or on vegetation. See http://tinyurl.com/347mkqx for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2919 Hi, This little creature is about the size of a sesame seed. It has a tail. It was found on the bathroom floor. I took the pics with a handheld digital microscope, so it is magnified app. 40 X. We live in interior BC Canada in a dry climate area. Could this insect be responsible for some bites my wife has experienced recently? I would really appreciate your efforts at identification. Thanks, Carl
This is a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae that includes carpet, hide, skin, and larder beetles. These would bot be responsible for any ‘bug bites,’ but you probably should check any organic fabrics/furs etc. for signs of insect damage or presence of more of these larvae. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2918 I found this guy in July in Brentwood Bay B.C. outside in the grass, he was very small but so cute! what is he!?!?
This appears to be a nymph of an oak leafhopper, Platycotis vittata (Hemiptera/Auchenorrhyncha: Membracidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/24tydc5 for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2917 Hi, my name is Lisa and this insect was found in Pittsburgh in a home in July. It has been a very warm summer here. It was caught and placed in water in a sealed jar for about 24 hours before it was brought to me. (My sister-n-law wouldn't touch the jar lol) A friend who does pest control said that it was not a cockroach. I lived in Florida for 14 years and have found over 50 species of roaches...He was about 1.5 inches long. Thanks
Unfortunately, this is indeed a cockroach, apparently a Periplaneta sp.; it is somewhat bloated from being in the water and had lost much of its antennae. Your friend may want to take a refresher course in insect identification. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2916 The pictures were taken in Fort Worth, Texas. This little creature was probably 1 inch by 1 inch, including the antennae. Found inside the house, early in the morning, in July, during a warm summer. Please contact me if additional information is required. Looking forward to your professional identification. Thanks, Robb
This is a nymph of a leaf bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae), but I cannot tell which species. The majority of these bugs are plant feeders, but a few are predacious on other small arthropods. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2915 Here is a moth i found that was around 6 inches in length. it came through my window in Milton on a warm night last week we get lots of moths but never this big

This is a giant silk moth (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), likely a polyphemus moth (Antheraea polyphemus) - see http://tinyurl.com/yemaua9. This family includes the largest moths in North America.　 Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2914 Hello, I haven't been able to identify this spider. I live in San Diego and this spider (and several of his friends) have been running around the house. They don't seem to have a web and are quite fast, running across the open carpet. I'm a little afraid it's a brown recluse, but the coloring doesn't seem right. Hopefully the picture is clear enough. I've put him in the freezer to maybe get a better look once he's dead. Thanks for any help, David
About all that I can say with any certainty about this spider is that (1) it is a male, and (2) it is not a recluse spider of any kind. It could be ground spider (family Gnaphosidae), but there are species in other families that can have a similar appearance. At any rate, it is nothing to worry about from a human health standpoint. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2913 My name is Jodi and I live in Hamilton Ontario. These photos were taken today, June 8th, 2010. These caterpillars or larvae are eating the leaves of some plants in our front garden. I’m wondering what they are and how to get rid of them; or I suppose whether or not we should get rid of them. Thanks, Jodi
These appear to be larvae of a sawfly, likely in the family Tenthredinidae - see http://tinyurl.com/22q89xj for an example. If the plants appear to be damaged to the extent that control is necessary, just about any insecticide labeled for use against chewing insects should work. provide. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2912 hello there, I found this attractive small insect on the leg of my bed (stuck to double-sided tape). It is very thin. Was just in Cuba a few months ago (in March) and a little paranoid about parasitic insects.Any ideas ? Brant in Wakefield, Quebec

This is a native insect and nothing to worry about. It is a flat bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Aradidae); likely Aradus robustus - see http://tinyurl.com/2dc9ec4 for an image. These bugs appear to be fungus feeders (see http://tinyurl.com/2dw8etw), and are not pests of any kind. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2911 Hello, My name is James and I live in Nara, Japan. I caught this bug in my living room on June 10th, 2010. It's a hot day, about 30C. I thought it was some sort of paper wasp maybe, but the thorax doesn't come to a super narrow point in the middle like most do, and the pattern on the back appears to be opposite (pointing up instead of down). You can see my hand for scale, but it was about 3cm long. So I thought maybe it was some sort of mimic. Thanks for any help you can give. James

This is a crane fly (Diptera: Tipulidae) in the genus Ctenophora (formerly Cnemoncosis) - see http://tinyurl.com/2bagokf for an example. Reportedly, there are at least nine species in this genus in Japan, but images are nota available for all of them. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2910 Hey there! This bug was found recently in my garden in Georgia. It's not a pest, but I was hoping you could help me with identification. Any idea what it could be?? It's hairy and has compound-looking eyes, like a fly, but is eating a fly! It also has what look like cerci, which makes it look like an Orthoptera, but it's missing the strong hind legs! Thanks for any advice!

This is a robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae); they are general predators on other small arthropods, usually darting out from a convenient perch to nab their prey, then returning to the perch top dine in leisure. See http://tinyurl.com/2fbfsn4 for one similar to yours. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2909 I live in Kincardine, Ontario. Every June these bugs appear, attack and destroy my roses, apples and peonies. They eat the flowers, young fruit and the leaves. Could you please tell me what they are and how to get rid of them.

Like number 2906, these appear to be chafers (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae; subfamily Melolonthinae). As with their cousins, Japanese beetles, some chafers can be very destructive foliage pests. Any insecticide labeled for use against chewing insects should provide some measure of control. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2908 I am from 20km west of Innisfail AB. The last 3 years we have had a infestation of these beetles on our lilacs. They have damaged the trees, because of ?. They always appear just as the lilacs start to bloom, last year the lilacs had thousands of them on them. I have tried various spays, it causes them to drop to the ground but does not seem to kill them. The beetles are about the same size as ladybugs. Thanks, David

These appear to be twice-stabbed stinkbugs (Cosmopepla lintneriana; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). See http://tinyurl.com/2b4lrna for images and detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2907 Found by 3 holes in carpet. No sign of any pest – just these leftover after something has hatched. I’d like to know what that something is likely to be so I can target it properly to get rid of it. Thanks, Kezia in the UK

These could be case-bearing clothes moths (Tinea pellionella; Lepidoptera: Tineidae); see http://tinyurl.com/2d8flrc for detailed information, including control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2906 My name is Kelly and I caught this beetle in a corn field in Southwestern Ontario on June 8th. We found a lot of them mating and feeding on the leaves of the corn plants. The beetles are just over 1cm from nose tip to bum. Kelly.

This beetle is in the family Scarabaeidae; it appears to be in the subfamily Melolonthinae that includes many leaf-feeding pests such as chafers - see http://tinyurl.com/28uspcp for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2905 Hello I live in Toronto Ontario Canada, I just started seeing the attached insect over the last couple of weeks (today is June 8th), 1 every couple of days inside my house. I have had someone who was living abroad start come to stay with us around the same time these started appearing (last 3 to 4 weeks) not sure if there is any correlation. Have not seen any during the day, they fly slowly and do not seem to move very quickly.
This is an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae); these are general predators on other small arthropods. An introduced species (Reduvius personatus - see http://tinyurl.com/248tlo4 for an image) called the masked hunter often invades buildings in search for prey; they can deliver a very painful bite. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2904 Good morning; I am living in Bracebridge Ontario, the heart of Muskoka. My property is east of town and I own 8 acres of property The property was originally a farm but has become over grown with pine trees. The soil is very sandy. Attached is a beetle that has invaded my property. It has just come out in the past 2-3 weeks. My flower pots are covered, my laundry is covered and I am sure my vegetable garden will be covered once the plants start to grow. Can you tell me what this is? How harmful is it to my plants? and How do I get rid of it? Thank you for your help, Sharon
This appears to be another chafer (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) such as no. 2900; see http://tinyurl.com/26e783k for images and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2903 Hello, This spider was found in a relatively dry field, meadow moving along the leaves of tall weeds. I searched the web for red and black spiders and could not find anything really close to this spider. The location is central Virginia. The photo was taken in early June during a very warm, humid mid-morning time. Any help in identification is appreciated. Thank you, Mack
This is a male jumping spider (family Salticidae) in the genus Phidippus; possibly Phidippus whitmani - see http://tinyurl.com/2dfazek for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2902 Hi, I'm Sarah, and I live in North York, Ontario. My mom took this picture this morning, June 4th 2010. We'd like to know what this bug is...it looks like a moving string. By the way, to give you an idea of the size the bug is moving over euonymus leaves. Thanks!
This not a ‘bug’ per se, but appears to be a mermithid nematode; these are parasitic on insects and other arthropods - see http://tinyurl.com/22ly8dd for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2901 I found this insect on the floor in my house. I picked it up because I at first thought it was an old grape or something my kids had left around, and when I flipped it over, I saw legs, which seemed to be curled up or tucked in somehow. Still believing the thing to be dead, I put it on the counter and went to fetch my husband. Upon our return the legs were extended. I live in southern Ontario, Canada, and it is early June; mid spring. It has been freaking me out a little as I hate having bugs in the house, and I have never seen anything like this thing before. I'm still not even sure if the specimen is alive or dead... Image one is the underside (I think) and shows the little legs and "face like" markings. Image two is from the top .. Help!
This is fully engorged female hard tick (family Ixodidae); likely in the genus Dermacentor. See http://tinyurl.com/26r6qdc for an image of engorged and unengorged ticks. Your specimen likely dropped off its host after feeding, and was looking for a place to lay its eggs. You should destroy it if you have not already done so; and if you have dogs or cats as pets, check them carefully for the presence of ticks. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2900 Hello my name is Amy I have these bugs in my garden in the Ottawa Ontario area, they eat all the leaves off my fruit trees and berry bushes. Thank you for any help.
This beetle is in the family Scarabaeidae; it appears to one those known as chafers, such as the rose chafer - see http://tinyurl.com/26e783k for images and more information. The larvae of these beetles can be quite destructive to turf. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2899 My husband and I noticed this spider by our front porch light at our apartment building. We live in North Texas. I'm hoping someone can help me identify it. We actually find different spiders quite frequently outside our front door. We first noticed it at night time and it stayed in the same place all night and day. The second picture is after, I'm assuming, one of our neighbours killed it. I am somewhat fascinated by spiders and am just curious as to what kind this one was.
This is a tarantula (mygalomorph spiders); likely in the genus Aphonopelma. These are quite common in Texas, and are not dangerous to humans. See http://tinyurl.com/2bhs2am for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2898 This is the 2nd year that I have lived in my house near Sacramento, California. I purchased the home right after it was built. Both years at around this time a ton of beetles start coming out onto my floors. I think it is some kind of ground beetle. I have looked all of the internet to find out what they are, but the closest thing I found was the Harpulus Ground Beetle. I just am not sure what exactly it is. Thank you for any help you can give. Nathan
This does appear to be a ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and could very well be in the subfamily Harpalinae (see http://tinyurl.com/2cwh62l for an example); but this is an extremely large and variable group and I cannot offer a specific identification. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2897 I saw this bug out in front of my apartment in San Angelo, Texas. It is bright green on the front of the body, and brown on the back of the body, there is also some brown spots near the front where the wings are connected. The whole body is about 1 inch, the wings are translucent with a little green on the "veins" near the body. The wings are about 1 1/2 inch, and it appears injured right now. It appears to have two protruding "bug eyes" as opposed to a traditional fly type eye. I have been in some jungles, and this is the weirdest looking fly-type bug I have ever seen. 2 or 3 times the size of a horse fly at minimum. What is this thing?
This is a cicada (Hemiptera/Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadidae); there are some 40 species of these insects reported from Texas. Depending on the species, the immature stages (nymphs) spend up to 17 years underground, sucking sap from tree roots. This one appears to be a Tibicen sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/2656dvt for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2896 I saw this bug on my plants, and was hoping you could help I.D. if for me. Thank you. AlanNumber
This is a nymph of a planthopper (superfamily Fulgoroidea). See http://tinyurl.com/2eu2xpj for an example of one in the family Acanaloniidae. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2895 I found these (usually in pairs) on my red flowering currant in Comox, British Columbia. My clever 14-year-old nephew thinks it's a Banasa dimiata. What a strikingly beautiful insect! Am I likely to be a lot less enamored with it in a few weeks? Thank you.
I believe that your nephew is correct, this does indeed appear to be Banasa dimiata (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/lnkz35 for an image. I hope that he will maintain an interest in entomology! Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2894 We found two dozen of these in our house in South Carolina. They were seen under the bedroom baseboards, in bathroom sinks and toilet bowls (it seems they want water but would drawn easily). They are about 8mm in length, and crawl rather slowly. They seem to have disappeared after a few days. Could you identify what they are? Thanks, Al
I think that you may consider scheduling a professional termite inspection of your premises, as these look suspiciously like reproductive termites that have shed their wings - see http://tinyurl.com/23vvllv for detailed information. Have you noticed any ’flying ants’ in or around your home that resemble these specimens? Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2893 Hello, I live in Toronto, ON and found this littly guy hanging out on my kitchen counter. I have browsed a whole bunch of the pictures on here and didn't see him so I thought I'd send it in. He's about 6 mm long and moves quite slowly. Almost looks fuzzy. I hope the pictures are good enough. Thanks! Angela
This is a larva of a lady beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae); likely that of Harmonia axyridis, the multicolored Asian lady beetle - see http://tinyurl.com/2swe3t for images and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2892 Hi, I found this guy in Oromocto, NB. 1st of June weather was rainy he was hanging around where I work for a couple days.. I think it’s a Polyphemus Moth, but I’m not sure.. My friend got some pics of a Luna moth the night before. I think they are in the same family. Thanks, Peter . New Maryland NB

This not a polyphemus, but a closely related species known as the cecropia moth (Hyalophora cecropia; Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/y8wqbcp for images and detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2891 Suddenly found this tiny fly in basement. It is attracted to fluorescent light, and then falls off light to the ground. They just keep showing up, but cannot trace the source. They are confined to one room in basement- workshop some cardboard boxes, dog food stored in garbage bins. We are in Ottawa, Ontario. How do I find the source to get rid of these?? What are they?? Thanks for your help Sandra

This beetle appears to be in the family Dermestidae (hide/skin/larder/carpet beetles and the like). They will feed on an extremely wide range of organic matter, including dry pet food, wool/silk fabrics, furs, feather, taxidermy mounts, and accumulations of dead insects. Control hinges on finding their food source(s) and eliminating those. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2890 Would you be able to tell me what this is. We are finding them in our house now that spring/summer is here. My name is Robert and we live near Grande Prairie, Alberta.

This appears to be a broad-nosed/short-snouted weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae) - see http://tinyurl.com/23amafz for an example. These weevils often enter buildings in search of shelter, but do no harm there. Some species, such as the strawberry root weevil, can be serious garden pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2889 Hi, my name is Rhiannon and I am from Buffalo, NY. We have recently moved to a new house and have found 2 of these spiders in our pool filter basket. They seem to be able to swim and were both alive upon finding them. I'm guessing they are around a 2-3" diameter. Can someone please tell me what type of spider this is? Are they dangerous to humans? Thank you so much!

This appears to be a fine, fat, female wolf spider (family Lycosidae). They are active hunters that do not spin a capture web. Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, but they are not dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2888 Hello, I discovered lots of these strange bugs on the outside of my house this spring (May). I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. It has been rainy. Any idea what they are? Thanks! Allison, Winnipeg MB

This is a larva of a lady beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), but I cannot put a specific name on it. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2887 We found this caterpillar in our back yard in southwest Ohio, in early June. It is about 2 inches long. We would love to know what it is. Thanks!

This appears to be a caterpillar of a pipevine swallowtail butterfly, Battus philenor (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/25acdzg for images and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2886 This Inchworm? was discovered on my windowsill in the oncoming warmer weather last year. It was found at China Bend Vineyard on the Columbia River in Northeast Washington State. I placed it on this walnut to get an image of size comparison. I researched and discovered that it is an inchworm and does metamorphose but, the color and location of the filaments has thrown me. The filaments were also capable of motion on their own in that, the The filaments were not equal and one of them as you can see, had two little ball like ends on it. This one could work kind of like a snail when it hides from something. Thanks for the assistance in identifying this one. Greg

This appears to be Nematocampa resistaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), known as the horned spanworm or filament bearer - see http://tinyurl.com/2dd565w for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2885 Hello, We are watching this nest being built on the front overhang of our house. Can you tell us what it is and, possibly, how large it will get? Is it a typical hornet nest that will grow and grow? We are fascinated by it, but eventually plan to tear it down. Thank you. Eva

This appears to be a relatively ‘young’ nest of a bald-faced hornet, Dolichovespula maculata (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) see http://tinyurl.com/2au2qlh for detailed images. Be careful, these wasps have very little if any sense of humor when it comes to disturbing their nests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2884 I have noticed these tiny insects in the kitchen and bathroom. The largest ones are probably only about 3mm long and the closer I look, the more I see. They seem to crawl pretty quickly for their size and it seems they're capable of jumping. I live in Cincinnati, OH and started noticing them in May. They don't pause for very long but I believe they have six legs and the two antennae. Thoughts? Thanks, Eric

This is a springtail, a primitive arthropod in the order Collembola. It appears to be a member of the family Entomobryidae - see http://tinyurl.com/2dyrh2e for an example. There are no known serious pest species in this family, although some can be nuisances when they occur in large numbers. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2883 This "friend" showed up in the middle of the night, then again during the day. He (she?) was in the basement of our house, in Indianapolis, IN in late spring during a hot weather streak. I'm concerned it is a carpenter ant. I've placed a dime next to it so you can guesstimate his size. Blair

Any ant in your area this large most likely is going to be a carpenter ant (Camponotus sp.); see http://tinyurl.com/28579nm for a Purdue University fact sheet. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2882 Hi, The bug was one of thousands that were crawling near my garage and retaining wall this morning. The specimen in the photo is perched on a plastic covered paper clip, they're very small. They move about only when disturbed, and only a few inches and freeze in place. The photo was taken in Chelsea, AL (US) on May 30. These guys appeared on an overcast morning after a pretty serious rain. The weekend was the first of days of really high humidity and temperature.
Any assistance you could provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Wayne.
This appears to be an insect in the order Psocodea (formerly in a separate order, Psocoptera) known as a bark louse. They are harmless scavengers on mold spores and bits of organic detritus found in the crevices of tree bark and the like. When they occur in large numbers, they may be referred to as ‘tree cattle’ - see http://tinyurl.com/2dv48wz Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2881 Hi, I live in North Eastern ON. I took this pic in the back yard not sure what it is never seen anything like it before It is June 1st and rainy. Thank you. Sherri

This is a sphinx moth (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) in the genus Hemaris; likely Hemaris thysbe - see http://tinyurl.com/2fothlx for an example. Moths in this genus collectively are known as clearwing hummingbird moths. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2880 Hello, my name is John. I'm from New Orleans, LA. I've been finding dozens of these things in my bathtub and in my closet at night. They're around a cm in size. There has been more and more since the weather has gotten hotter. Any ideas what they are?

The image is too fuzzy to be certain, but this could be a reproductive termite (‘swarmer’) that has shed its wings. Just as a precaution, you may want to have your premises inspected by a professional - see http://tinyurl.com/2f7j98g for a starting point. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2879 Hi, I just moved into a new room in a rented apt. and I've found at least 3 or 4 of these bugs on the carpet. I bought a bug spray and sprayed it in my room. It is about 8-10 mm long. Its the end of May, the weather is between 70-90 F, and my room doesn't have food lying around. Please let me know what it is, and what needs to be done. Also, do these bite? Thank you. Ankit (Roselle Park, NJ)

This wasp is in the family Chalcididae; see http://tinyurl.com/2azrj8o for an image of one in the genus Brachymeria that appears quite similar to yours. Chalcidid wasps all appear to be parasitic/hyperparasitic on other insects. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2878 I'm not sure this is a "pest" but rather a very interesting creature found in the garden. It is less than one inch in length from tip of antenna to end of back leg. Location: Glendale, California - near Los Angeles - in a hilly chaparral area. Photographed May 28, 2010 on a warm, sunny day in the garden on the bloom of an African iris plant. Considering the size and month could this be a young animal? Regards, Howard.
This is a young nymph of a bush katydid (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) in the genus Scudderia - see http://tinyurl.com/29znvyo for an example. Quite colorful when young, these nymphs become more uniform green during successive molts. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2877 Dear Pest Control Canada Webmasters, Attached is a photo of a strange insect or crustacean I found in my garden for identification. I live in Quincy Massachusetts (just outside Boston) I found this creature, dead on a leaf in my garden. There are some birds nests near by and I live on a small peninsula surrounded by marsh and the ocean. I couldn't tell whether it had 8 or 6 legs, it appeared to have at least 6 with the top pair curled up with a pointy end similar to a praying mantis. Thanks and Regards, John

Although this looks more like a crustacean than an insect to me, I really cannot tell what exactly it might be. Can you by any chance provide an image of the dorsal (upprt) side of this creature? Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2876 Hi my names Maurena, I live in Saginaw, TX.. I took this one yesterday outside of my house (May 30th), it was about 95 degrees out. This spider was crawling up the backside of my house and attacked a baby Wolf Spider right in front of me. It continued to drag the Wolf Spider up the back of my house and into a wooden crevice.What are these things?!? And are they venomous or dangerous in anyway to my pets or child?

This is an antmimic/ground sac spider (family Corinnidae) in the genus Castianeira; it looks a lot like Castianeira amoena - see http://tinyurl.com/2546lt9 for an image. These are active hunyers that do not spin a capture web; they are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2875 Hi, I would appreciate identification of the bug in the attached photos. The photo was taken in Charlotte, NC in late May outdoors. Bugs are approximately 0.5 inch long. Thanks, John

This is a nymph of a boxelder bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Rhopalidae); likely the eastern boxelder bug, Boisea trivittata. These primarily are nuisance pests when they occur in large numbers on or in homes - see http://tinyurl.com/272gy4k for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2874 Hi, these were taken in the UK. seen indoors in all but the coldest weather, ranging from 1-3 or 4 mm and can fly. Alan.

This is a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae; subfamily Ptininae); it appears to be in the genus Ptinus, possibly Ptinus tectus, the Australian spider beetle - see http://tinyurl.com/28ddr7e for an image. This species apparently was introduced into the UK late in the 19^th century - see http://tinyurl.com/27popu3 for a fact sheet. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2873 Hi, Here's a big wasp that entered our home during summer. I'm living in a town near Montréal (20 km Southwest), in Québec. Seems to be a "Sphex", but what kind and is it common in my area? Guiboard

This is indeed a wasp in the family Sphecidae, and from its size, quite possibly Sphex pensylvanicus (sometimes also spelled Sphex pensylvanica or Sphex pennsylvanica). They are known as katydid hunters, as those insects appear to be their primary prey that they use as food for their larvae. See http://tinyurl.com/2d4pf6j for images and more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2872 Attached please find an enlargement of the worms attacking our Snowball Bush. We used dormant oil on the tree both last fall & this spring thinking that would get it as it happened last summer as well. That was not the solution as they are back & the the tree has almost no leaves left. Could someone identify these pests & what can we do about them. Thanks

These appear to be larvae of the viburnum leaf beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni; Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae); this beetle appears to have been introduced from Europe some 60 years ago - see http://tinyurl.com/26jfnjx for more information and http://tinyurl.com/2ftw3zh for control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2871 We found this spider inside our townhome just last week. I can't remember exactly how big it was anymore, but I'd guess around 1cm in diameter. Howard

This is a cobweb/comb-footed spider (family Theridiidae); it looks like a Theridion sp., but I cannot be certain of a specific identification. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2870 Hi, I saw photo #2776 and thought I had found my bug, but the beetles that I'm seeing in my apartment are larger. They are about 6mm (~1/4 inch) in length, short antennae that are bulbous at the ends". They are dark grey/black with dark brown outer wings. I live in Toronto, Ontario and have been seeing this beetle in the month of May/June. The humidity has reached as high as 49% and the weather has been about 20-30 degree Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit). Someone suggested for photo #2776 that it's a carpet beetle, but I have no carpet. I believe that these beetles are coming from my radiator, which lines the wall right below my windows. Christine - Toronto, ON

These beetles are in the family Dermestidae, which includes carpet beetles, and yours closely resembles those in the genus Attagenus, which includes the black carpet beetle. Im spite of the name, these beetles attack a wide variety of organic materials other than carpeting. See http://tinyurl.com/pvgfq3 for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2869 This composite picture was taken from our window at the Toronto Harbourfront on May 28 at around 6 a.m. I am assuming that both mosquitoes belong to the same species, the one on the left with the bushy antennae being male and the one on the right being a female. There has been a burst of this insect population lately accompanied by a less dramatic but still noticeable increase in number of spiders at this time of the year. Is this species of mosquito a carrier of the West Nile virus? I have enjoyed very much visiting your website since discovering it a few days ago. Many thanks Ara

These are non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae), and you are correct in their sexes. Although they are closely related to mosquitoes, they do not bite, but they can become nuisances when they occur in enormous numbers. See no. 2775 for another example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2868 I would like you identify this spider for me if possible . I live in Romney West Virginia and that's where the spiders were found. Thank You, Donna Boger

This is a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Dolomedes; likely Dolomedes tenebrosus, known as the dark fishing spider - see no. 2818 for another example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2867 I live in the Fraser Valley of BC, Canada. I found this little worm like creature in my flower garden on a rainy day in late May of the year. Sorry I don't have a object to reference the size but it's not much thicker than a course hair and about an inch long when stretched out. I had to enhance the lighting a bit as the original photo was a little dark. I hope this helps to identify this critter.

I’m not exactly sure what this is - it could be a nematode in the family Mermethidae; these are parasitic on insects, and may spend part of their life cycle in soil - see http://tinyurl.com/28ou6th for an example. Another but less likely possibility is an immature annelid worm (a group that includes earrthworms). Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2866 This bug is located in my planters. I live in Southern Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It is May 28th and they've been here for about 1 1/2 weeks. They have pierced holes and eaten much of my vine plants (sweet potato, ivy). They are sized the same and look like a lady bug spray painted gold! They have a similar body underside and have small legs, more than a ladybug would have. I noticed in the picture provided that you can see small dots on it's side as well. It has been quite warm here for a couple of weeks now and I am unsure if these are indigenous. Any information you can provide would be much appreciated. Thanks Tammy

This is a tortoise beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae; subfamily Cassidinae); likely in the genus Charidotella - see http://tinyurl.com/2d4f558 for an example. These beetles feed primarily on members of the morning glory family (which includes sweet potatoes). These beetles are indigenous. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2865 Hi. I found this 18 mm bug walking on a garden plant, outdoors, May 2010, in Merida State 1900 m.u.s.l., Venezuela. Thanks Gustavo.

This bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera) appears to be in the family Pyrrhocoridae (red bugs, cotton stainers); possibly in the genus Dysdercus - see http://tinyurl.com/23yj6t8 for an example. Images do not appear to be available for most Latin American species. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2864 Found 2 of these flies on the grass near an old, not too healthy crab apple tree in Montreal, Canada, in May of this year on a hot, sunny day. They were very sluggish. It is about one inch long and looks like a bee but I don’t see a stinger on it. Didn’t see anything quite like it on your site. Would appreciate it if someone could let us know what it is. Thanks, Howard

This is a robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) in the genus Laphria - some species in this genus are excellent bumble bee mimics - see http://tinyurl.com/2c7lmhj for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2863 Hi guys. Love your site. Can you tell me what in the world this is? Cheers! Paul Meyer, Ardmore, PA (near Philadelphia)

This is my wife’s least favorite insect, namely an earwig (order Dermaptera). They primarily are nuisance pests, but may on occasion damage very tender vegetation. See http://tinyurl.com/yz5d8os for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2862 May 2010, Quebec. Found in a bedroom closet; white; 6 legs; approx. 3/4 of a centimeter; looks like a cross between a spider and a cricket.

This is a nymph of an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae) known as the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus). See http://tinyurl.com/36am447 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/mwq56m for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2861 Hi, I found a pair of these flying bugs last week in our well-lit downstairs bathroom in our old house. We've been here 6 years, and have seen most bugs known to mankind, but we've never seen these bugs before. I just found another single one today. Could you please identify this bug for me and suggest a course of action? From photos that I've seen, I'm concerned that they are flying termites. Thank you. Merle, Dundas, ON

I cannot be absolutely certain, but this looks like a member of the family Heleomyzidae - see http://tinyurl.com/29pbt8g for an example. These flies are harmless; their larvae are scavengers on decomposing organic matter, there is no need for control. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2860 Hi. I'm in Northwich, North - West UK. We had a very hot spell lately (25 - 30 * C) and all of a sudden these started appearing. My friend scared me saying they might be American cockroaches. They're mostly in the living room and we find them during the day - they're not afraid at all and they don't run away. Lately one of them was found in the bathroom as well. What are they? Any ideas please? Thanks, Brian

This is a beetle known as a wharf borer (Nacerdes melanura; Coleoptera: Oedemeridae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2dqfwft for an image. The larvae may be found in moist timbers, such as wharf timbers, foundation pilings under buildings, in damp cellars or crawl spaces, in wood around leaky faucets, in buried wood, or in any wood that is damp or soggy, and particularly if it is decayed. They do not appear to attack sound timber. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2859 Found this guy on the ladder to our in-ground pool in Massachusetts. I thought he might be a fishing spider because seems to resemble them the most based on the pics I've seen, but not quite as furry as the ones I'm seeing on this site. It is at least 3 inches in diameter. Also, I was almost positive I saw a spider just like this sitting at the bottom of the pool last year but thought it had to be impossible, but now that I've seen this one up close and have read that fishing spiders can hang out under water for 30 minutes I'm thinking I had been right. Is this a fishing spider?

This is indeed a fishing spider (family Pisauridae); likely Pisaurina mira - see http://tinyurl.com/onwnr7 for an image. Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled; they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2858 Here is a photo of a ??? I found while gardening. It was in the ground about two inches from the surface. Only it's rear part seems to move but not often. What is it? The photo was taken near Joliette QC about 50 Km north of Montreal. It was taken on May 25th 2010, full sunshine, 35 Celsius, outdoor, in my garden near a stone walkway. It measures about 2.5 mm X 8mm dia. Thanks, Clement

These are moth pupae, but it would be nearly impossible to tell exactly what kind without microscopic examination. My best guess is that they may be in the family Noctuidae, as many of these pupate in soil litter or beneath the soil surface. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2857 Hi, I live in Toronto in a basement suite and just found this guy flying around my bathroom. I also recently saw an already dead one in my kitchen. It is about 5 mm long. It's the end of May and has been quite hot and humid lately. Should I be concerned about these little creatures, or are they harmless? Thanks, Kayla
Although I cannot provide a positive i.d. for this moth (that would require dissection and microscopic examination), it does not appear to be any species that would be of concern from an indoor pest standpoint. The only really tiny moths apt to cause problems indoors are clothes moths (family Tineidae), and their wings look different from those on your specimen - see http://tinyurl.com/28g6s35 for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2856 Hello, This insect has been lurking around my apartment. I've found 4 in the past 3 days. The location is Halifax, Nova Scotia. The apartment is on the 11th floor of a 14 story building. Two were found in the bathroom and two in the bedroom. They were found indoors on the floor, in the late spring/early summer of the year. The are about 3/4 the size of a dime in length (6-7mm roughly). They are very quick when startled. I'd love to find out how to get rid of these! Thank you, Mick

This is a bristletail, a primitive insect in the order Thysanura. Some species, such as silverfish and firebrats, can be nuisance pests indoors; see http://tinyurl.com/cmar94 and http://tinyurl.com/23hmrd4 for images and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2855 I work at a garden center in Fergus, Ontario and I found this guy on top of our water cooler in the annual house. I'm just curious what it is, it looks almost like a type of lady bug.

This is a leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in the genus Calligrapha; probably Calligrapha multipunctata, known as the common willow calligrapha - see http://tinyurl.com/2cljlaf for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2854 This beetle was one of about 8 spotted yesterday, May 23,2010 in Milton. Southwest Ontario. About one centimetre long. Can anyone identify it for me? Geoff.
This is a long-horned wood-boring beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); namely the elderberry borer, Desmocerus palliatus - see http://tinyurl.com/23c775x for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2853 Could you tell me what this is? Thank you!

This appears to be a planthopper in the superfamily Fulgoroidea; the characters needed to identify it to the family level cannot be seen on this image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2852 Please let me know if I should pack up and move out. Three of these guys have been in my pool in the last two days. Never seen them before. About 3 inches long. Thanks, Dennis
This is a fishing/nursery web spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Pisaurina; likely Pisaurina mira - see http://tinyurl.com/onwnr7 for an image. Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled; they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2851 I took these pictures this morning, these guys were on my white milkweed tree, they look like tiny ladybugs, I need to know what they are to know if they are beneficial or destructive.I am located in South Florida near Fort Lauderdale. pictures taken 5/21/10 at around 10:00 AM outside, it is very hot and humid here now. Thank you. Akram Masri

These appear to be young nymphs of the Florida predatory stink bug, Euthyrhynchus floridanus (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). They are general predators on other small arthropods. See http://tinyurl.com/2asggnh for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2850 I Bought some Garden soil " Miracle Grow " first time I ever used it and these things started to come a couple every couple day's what are they? it has a Hard Tail section a hairy body it has yellow strips on it's legs and antenna, But the dam thing has two stinger's According to the bag it came from FL. if that helps at all. Should i be worried? I'm allergic to bee stings . I have a sample of the damn things. ~ Jim

These are wood wasps known as horntails (Hymenoptera: Siricidae); the ‘long ‘stinger’ is its ovipositor, used to insert its eggs into the wood in which its larvae develop, They have no venom and are harmless to humans, and the association with the garden soil is strictly coincidental. Your specimens appear to be Urocerus albicornis (see http://tinyurl.com/2bx4mn6). Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2849 My husband found this bug in our back yard, we live in Central Newfoundland and have never seen a bug like this. Someone said it looks like a giant water beetle. Still we have never seen anything like this before in our area. It was a chilly damp day. It was found on May 20th. Thank you, Debbie

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae); an aquatic predator and very strong flier. See nos. 2824, 2810, 2804, and 2773 for other examples. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2848 Hi, I live in Austin, TX. I heard my 4 yr old screaming outside and when I got to her this little booger was crawling up her leg. When it's stretched out it's about 3 inches long. It's showing what seems to be yellow antennae coming out of what I think is it's mouth. I was just curious as to what was crawling on my baby. Thank you for your help. We found it in the middle of May. Kara

This is a caterpillar of a tiger swallowtail butterfly (Papilio glaucus; Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2fyuhq9 for detailed information. The yellow ‘antennae’ actually is a defensive organ known as an osmeterium - the caterpillar uses it to emit a foul-smelling chemical to deter predators - see http://tinyurl.com/2f96qgq. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2847 Hi! I recently found these little 'beetles' on my false spirea plants. they are destroying them! the flower buds have wilted and so have some leaves. they are only about 3 mm long but they don't seem to be aphids, I compared pictures already. please help, my plants are dying! thank you so much!

This is a young nymph of a plant bug, likely in the family Miridae. One member of this family, the tarnished plant bug (Lygus lineolaris) has been reported as a pest on false spirea; see http://tinyurl.com/2akhyf3 for images of nymphs and adults of this species and http://tinyurl.com/26hv8me for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2846 Hi, We found these insects on our grapevine. They are about 5mm in length and run up and down the stalks of the vine. The infestation has lasted since the beginning of hot weather in May (around 30 degrees C) here in Beijing, China. They tend to cluster at the end of the stalks, and under the leaves. We have also noticed tiny, round, clear ´spheres´ of some kind of liquid or secretion, but we're not sure if that's associated with the insects or not. We'd be very grateful if anyone could identify them for us! Many thanks and regards, Nic & Andrew

These are planthoppers in the family Fulgoridae; members of this family often have a very bizarre appearance and usually do little real damage to their host plants. The shape of these is similar to that of the genus Lycorma that is native to China - see http://tinyurl.com/22u6dvg for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2845 Hi, just wondering if you could tell me what this interesting insect is called? It was dig holes in a small hillside at our cottage in South Hampton, New Brunswick. Thanks! Melanie and Derrick Fredericton, New Brunswick.

This is a blister beetle (Coleoptera: Meliodae) in the genus Meloe - see http://tinyurl.com/22qxkv7 for an example. Beetles in this genus sometimes are called oil beetles; when handled roughly, they will ‘bleed’ reflexively from their leg joints. This fluid (haemolymph) contains cantharidin, a chemical that can cause blistering of tender skin. See http://tinyurl.com/y2u2sck for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2844 This cluster of tiny baby spiders is on the north side of the house (Toronto) May 19. Have never seen them before. W

These are spiderlings of an orb-weaving spider (family Araneidae), such as a gold and black garden spider, Argiope aurantia - see http://tinyurl.com/25vpb3b for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2843 What kind of spider is this? I found it just climbing into my house. I have 2 little kids that are not scared of picking bugs and spiders up...Help...My name is Amanda and I live in Port Alberni BC
This is a woodlouse spider, Dysdera crocata (family Dysderidae). This is an introduced species that now has a wide distribution in North America. See http://tinyurl.com/234sqz7 for an image and more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2842 I found this bug in my kitchen sink a week ago and saved it in a jar. Please identify. Thanks,

This is a nymph of an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae) known as the masked hunter (Reduvius personatus). See http://tinyurl.com/36am447 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/mwq56m for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2841 I'm am in Montreal. I found this little thing alive on my bed skirt. I’ve had some red plaques on the skin lately (one per 2-3 days) and think this thing might have bitten me?? I looked hard and found nothing else. It was alone by itself. It’s about 3mm long and almost completely flat.. I think it only had 4 legs, but it might be 6 as well... they broke off when I removed it from the skirt (it didn’t wanted to let go. Thanks, P-L

Although this is a true bug (Hemiptera; suborder Heteroptera), it does not appear to be a bed bug - see http://tinyurl.com/2drlaon for a ventral view of one. Unfortunately, I cannot provide a definitive i.d. from your image; a dorsal view, preferably undamaged, would be necessary. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2840 All of the carpet in my house is full of these bugs - the front ones look like larvae and the back ones are the adults. They have one light colored stripe diagonally across the top of their body. The larvae are hairy. All the pictures I could find online of carpet beetles appeared much rounder in shape than these little oblong guys but otherwise they seem to fit the description. The vacuum doesn't get them. I am pregnant and also have three small children so I am not keen on using pesticides. Are these in fact carpet beetles? And if so, how do I get rid of them?
These beetles are in he family Dermestidae; they are Dermestes lardarius, commonly known as larder beetles. See http://tinyurl.com/23w7o5f for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2839 HI, I found this beauties near the picnic table. We live in central MN. They look to be two different types, are they orb weaving spiders? Aaron

The spider on the left is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae); these are active hunters that do not spin capture webs. The spider on the right is a comb-footed/cobweb spider (family Theridiidae) in the genus Steatoda. Although not dangerous, either of these can deliver a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2838 This bug practically decimated my cotton Easter hedge . It appears to lay tiny black eggs, almost like black dots of dust, on the underside of the leaves. Seems to suck from the leaves, the leaves turn shiny , sort of sticky. Then the next spring everywhere they were is dead. Can you tell me what they are, and how to get rid of them, before they completely devastate.

These are lace bugs (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Tingidae); likely the hawthorn lace bug, Corythucha cydoniae - see http://tinyurl.com/2aqb66r for an image and http://tinyurl.com/2635drx for a fact sheet on lace bugs that includes detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2837 I found this bug in my firewood. I believe it is hickory and there. Holes, sawdust and small tunnels on wood. Photo is after death. If any of this wood gets stored inside are these bugs going to be a problem. Thank you, Ron. I am in Jamestown NY.

This is a long-horned wood-boring beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) known as a painted hickory borer (Megacyllene caryae) - see http://tinyurl.com/23mso27 for an image. These beetles and others in this family frequently are found indoors when they emerge from firewood. They will not attack finished wood, and pose no threat to buildings. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2836 Found this in east Ireland in the county of Meath at around midnight on the 17 May. I think its a beetle but we're not quite sure as to what type it is.

This appears to be a beetle called a cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha; Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Their larvae (grubs) feed on roots underground for some three years before undergoing pupation and transforming to the adult stage. See http://tinyurl.com/23oxvzq for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2835 Hello, These tiny crawling specks have recently invaded the bathroom at a wall in close proximity to a birds nest on the outside wall. Perusing the entries it would appear these are mites, reasonable assumption? It makes sense that removal of the nest is the first step toward mitigation, what else is recommended? Is it safe to assume these are more of a nuisance than a threat? Great site, thanks! Curtis, Oregon

These do indeed appear to be bird mites, and they can be nuisances as they will bite humans in the absence - see http://tinyurl.com/luve4y for more detailed information including control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2834 Hi, I found this flying bug - beetle on my living room window where it gets the southern exposure. So far, I've found six of them and I would like to know what they are. I haven't seen them outside yet. I live in Prince George, B.C. and our weather has finally turned nice and with that came these bugs. Can you help?

This is Malachius aeneus, a soft-winged flower beetle (Coleoptera: Melyridae) known as a malachite beetle - see http://tinyurl.com/289j4c2 for an image. This species was introduced from Europe. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2833 Hello. We live in Kearney, Nebraska in the second story of a two-story apartment. We have only seen these bugs in our bathroom. They are VERY fast, but don't move unless you touch them. The two I found today were both about 3/4 of an inch long or about 2 cm. The most important thing I would like to know is where they are coming from/hiding in. Also, our washer and dryer are in a small closet in our bathroom if that makes a difference. Taylor

This is a bristletail, a primitive insect in the order Thysanura. Some species, such as silverfish and firebrats, can be nuisance pests indoors, This specimen could be a firebrat (Thermobia domestica) - see http://tinyurl.com/23hmrd4 for an image and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2832 Found by a friend in North Carolina.

This is a click beetle (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in the genus Alaus, that includes the largest species in this family in North America. It more likely is the eyed elater, Alaus oculatus, than the small-eyed or blind elater, Alaus myops - see http://tinyurl.com/m3ht3a for images and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2831 I find clusters of these insects on my chili plants every spring. I live in Guanajuato, Mexico. Despite being very different in appearance, I suspect that pictured are two stages of the same species. Are they harmful to the plant? If so, how may I control them and not harvest toxic chili peppers?

These are nymphs and adults of treehoppers (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Membracidae); these are sap feeders that with a few exceptions, seldom cause serious harm to their host plants. If they appear to be harming yours, you could try applying organic controls such as neem oil or an insecticidal soap. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2830 I need some help. This bug has popped up in the number of hundreds of thousands across my property. They cover the parging on my house, my driveway, sidewalk, and sandbox. Everywhere warm. They are 2-3 mm big. I live in Stony Plain, Alberta. Thanks.

The image is not clear enough to be certain, but these have the general appearance of broad-nosed/short-snouted weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae) - these primarily are root feeders as larvae. However, if they are these weevils, their antennae should be more prominent. I have located an image of a weevil in this subfamily (a Trachyphloeus sp.) that resembles these specimens both in size and general appearance - see http://tinyurl.com/2c9saj8 Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2829 I'm in Edmonton, Alberta. I found this guy while digging. There is a creek a few meters away, if that's important. It was about 4mm long and the red forelimbs are little pincers like on a scorpion. Ian

This is an arachnid (the group to which spiders, mites, ticks, scorpions, etc. belong) called a pseudoscorpion, They are general predators on other small arthropods, and completely harmless to humans. See http://tinyurl.com/2b4pktt for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2828 I captured this spider in one of my bug traps. They are in our basement and are the ugliest things I've seen, they are really fast too! This picture was taken in Nova Scotia, Porters Lake, Chezzetcook basement. What is this spider and how can I get rid of these ugly things! Angela
This appears to be a hacklemesh weaver (family Amaurobiidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2dlzo5d. They sometimes are found indoors, usually in basements, and may wander about away from a web. They are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2827 Hi there! I'm finding lots of spiders in my basement suite these days. They are all out wandering. This one is about 1,3 cm in body size and 3cm with legs extended. I found it on the living room floor early in the morning. I live in Vancouver, BC. Can anyone help me? Sincerely, Monica

This is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae). They are active hunters with excellent (for spiders) eyesight. Although large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, they are not dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2826 I found this bug in the middle of my kitchen floor, on the linoleum. It pulls its legs and head in like a turtle. It doesn’t seem to be very fast moving. Location: Watson, Saskatchewan. Joan

This is an engorged female hard tick (family Ixodidae); likely a Dermacentor sp. If you have cats or dogs, you might want to check them for additional ticks. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2825 Can anybody identify this larva? This was found in a box of washing powder in Finland. The product was manufacture in the UK . There are 4 live larva was found in pack on the 2/1Dec/09 and the pack was manufactured in the UK on the 22/July/09. This has a brown head and 6 legs (3 either side) at the front of a segmented body with 2 protrusions on the back end.I assume it had to have been an egg stage to why it is still alive in such a inhospitable environment. Denise

About all I can say her is that it appears to be a beetle larva of some kind. Some beetle larvae in the family Dermestidae can live quite some time without feeding. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2824 Great idea for identifying "visitors" I found this insect on my driveway in Chateauguay Qc. which is just south of Montreal. It wasn't in any hurry so I put my keys down beside it for scale. It's about 2 inches long and the back part seems to be wings which would open but it didn't really fly much - it was more like hopping. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks, Ken.
This is yet another giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae); an aquatic predator and very strong flier. See nos. 2810, 2804, and 2773 for other examples. They never fail to attract attention when someone comes across one. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2823 I’ve been seeing these guys (~1/2 cm in length) around my apartment (no specific preference for any rooms) in central Florida (Atlantic coast-early May). They seem to be solitary, but there are at least 5-15 sightings a day. They are also easy to kill and do not fly. Any help appreciated. Thanks, JS

This is a nymph of a true bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera); but unfortunately, I have no idea as to species. Someone more expert on this group than I am should weigh in here. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2822 Hi, I found this spider in my son's sand box in North Vancouver. The legs and body are very red and the abdomen is light beige and shiny (not hairy). It sort of looks like it has big pincers in it and I've never seen anything like it before. Can you tell me what it is? Thank you, Michael

This most likely is a woodlouse spider (Dysdera crocata; family Dysderidae - see http://tinyurl.com/34gj4qx for an image). They have very large chelicerae for their body size, and are capable of delivering a painful (but not dangerous) bite. There also are ground spiders (family Gnaphosidae) in the genus Gnaphosa that can have a very similar appearance (see http://tinyurl.com/2wrrq2k for an example). Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2821 I found this spider while working outside. I live in Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, Canada The web was extremely strong. and not made like the usual ones around here. tight knit not many gaps.. I never seen one like this before. since it does look like a eye on it's back. can you tell me what kind it is

This is an orb-weaving spider (family Araneidae) in the genus Araneus, possibly a variant of the marbled orb weaver, Araneus marmoreus (see http://tinyurl.com/23u2rhn for a similar example. They are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2820 I found this guy in the woods of southern Lebanon county PA near Cornwall. Any idea of its common name?

This is a flat millipede (order Polydesmida) in the family Xystodesmidae; perhaps a Sigmoria sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/2c4eb9k for an example. When disturbed, these millipedes emit a cyanide compound that smells like almonds. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2819 Hope you can id this. Found it under a basket in my basement, it looks to be some type of larva or caterpillar, thanks, Lana

This is a caterpillar; although I cannot pin a specific identification on it, it does not appear to be any of the indoor pest species that can infest stored foodstuffs. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2818 Could you please tell me what kind of spider this is. I was walking down the Cranberry Trail in Callander Ontario, I thought I was just taking a picture of a wood pecker hole at first until I got closer. Two of the pictures where taken on Friday afternoon and two of them where taken on Monday evening. I was very surprised to see him in the same spot. Thanks for all your help.. Barb

This appears to be a female fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Dolomedes; likely Dolomedes tenebrosus - see http://tinyurl.com/ydtjaoc for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2817 Hellow, I found this insect on the ornamental plant in my front yard. Can you please identify this insect and it's scientific name with little information about it. We live in Central Saudi Arabia, weather now sunny, dry and hot. Thank you and best regards. Dr. A. Baiz

About all that I can say is that it appears to be a large vespid wasp. I will try to find out more information on it. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2816 Found a couple of these crawling on my carpet in Edmonton, Alberta. There were some shedded skins in a corner of the room. It has a few legs near the front and some thin hairs coming out of the rear end. I'm assuming it is the larval stage of an insect. My best guess is some sort of Carpet Beetle.

This is indeed a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae; likely in the genus Attagenus (black carpet beetle and allies) - see http://tinyurl.com/2cggq6q for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2815 Can you tell me what these are. They ate these plants only (licorice plant) and mated while they remained on the plants. I am on a farm 15 miles North of Moose Jaw , Saskatchewan, Canada

These are blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae), apparently in the genus Lytta - see http://tinyurl.com/2a7v3mt for an example. These beetles exude fluid from their joints (reflexive bleeding) if handled roughly; this fluid contains cantharidin, a chemical that can cause blisters on tender skin and that can injure animals if they ingest the beetles - see http://tinyurl.com/28ckzft for details. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2814 Could you please identify this pest for me. I think that these are flying termites, but my husband is insisting that these are flying ants. They were found in my kitchen and it appears that they came up through the kitchen sink or something...I'm not sure, but the day before this there was another swarm with even more...please help. Thanks, Nicole
These are indeed winged reproductive termites (‘swarmers’). You should schedule a thorough home inspection by a professional termite control company - see http://tinyurl.com/ddsa37 for a starting point. Also, see http://tinyurl.com/24dtw8g for an image that compares winged ants with termites. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2813 Hello- I found this ant-like bug clinging to a towel and it was dead when I found him. He looks like an ant species, but I have never seen an ant like this one. He has some orange tint to this underbelly and where his abdomen meets his thorax. He doesn't have wings, and he has tiny little hairs on his abdomen. Please help me identify this bug if you can, I am mainly concerned because I have pet guinea pigs and wasn't sure if this kind of bug might be dangerous for them! I'm located in Northern New Jersey.
This appears to be a carpenter ant (Camponotus sp.) - see http://tinyurl.com/2av4j7v for an image. These will not harm your guinea pigs in any way, but you might want to inspect you premises for any unsound wood (usually water-damaged) subject to attack by these ants - see http://tinyurl.com/lv6mdv for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2812 This 6 mm bug was in my ear eating skin. It was also there on and off over a period of a week when my wife identified it as a blood clot. I pulled it off and realized that it was this bug. At the same time she suffered four bites which over the period of a week have gone from small blisters to open wounds to scabs, but the inflammation has increased in intensity over this period. David

This is a hard tick (family Ixodidae) in the genus Dermacentor. These can vector diseases including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (see http://tinyurl.com/2b4r8xk), but the tick apparently must remain attached for at least 24 hours before there is significant risk of transmission. Any arthropod bite can become inflamed through secondary bacterial infection; this does not correlate with disease risk from the arthropod itself. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2811 We found this monster in the bathroom sink on the 2nd floor of our house in Auburn, California (Sierra Nevada foothills, 30 miles from Sacramento, CA). We spent all night trying to convince ourselves it is NOT a drywood termite. We just brought home a dry sauna from my brother's house in Santa Cruz, CA. He had/has drywood termite problems Can you please tell us what this is? I love the fact that you help out non-entomologists with entomology. Thank you!!

Given its large size and dark wings, this more likely is a dampwood termite (Zootermopsis sp.) - see http://tinyurl.com/27dm39g for an image and http://tinyurl.com/28kxn2h for a detailed fact sheet that includes control and preventive measures. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2810 I Live in St. Johns, NL Canada, I Found this bug on my door step. Very frightening because of its size, It looks like some kind of beetle that can fly, it has some kind of snappers on the front of it, almost like a scissors, and has like a stinger at the back. I have only seen these bugs at night. Any help or information that you can give would be great. Thank You Tina

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), a voracious predator on other aquatic invertebrates as well as on tadpoles and small minnows. See no. 2804 for another examples and more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2809 I'm from MN USA and have found these in my carpet and on the walls Inside my Apartment. they look like sow bugs but I have no moisture problems or any plants.-Aaron

These are indeed sowbugs. Even though you may not have a moisture problem in your unit, is it possible that there are moisture sources immediately adjacent to you? Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2808 These bugs were found in Fresno, CA in the inside of a house. There were a lot of them. Nicole
These beetles are in the family Scarabaeidae; likely in the subfamily Cetoniinae (fruit and flower chafers) - see http://tinyurl.com/276m9py for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2807 I found this insect in a UV fly trap, can you please help to identify this insect? Thank you, Lallini

This appears to be a Asian moth in the subfamily Arctiinae (family Erebidae) known as handmaiden moths (Amata sp.) - see http://tinyurl.com/yjw5uhg for an image. Many of these moths mimic wasps in their appearance. As has been mentioned several times before, it really helps if the geographic location for the imaged arthropod is specified. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2806 These winged insects plague my kitchen every spring and summer. Boston Massachusetts. Any ideas what they are or how I can get rid of them? Lou

These are Indian meal moths (Plodia interpunctella), a very common and widespread pantry pest. See http://tinyurl.com/d5pu6j for a fact sheet with detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2805 I found this spider in my garage in a pile of firewood today. I live in Dallas, TX.

This is a cobweb/comb-footed spider (family Theridiidae) in the genus Steatoda; most likely Steatoda triangulosa - see http://tinyurl.com/ydck5e2 for an image. Although this spider belongs to the same family as the notorious black widow spider, it is harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2804 I found this beetle in my flower bed last night. I came late at night and I could hear it making a noise and it appeared to be sucking into the clay. What is this insect. it is about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide, before it spreads its wings. Anyone that can help me identify what it might be, please reply. It does resemble a water beetle that was occasionally seen on some farms during the hot summer years ago, but it is still cold here. Ann

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), a voracious predator on other aquatic invertebrates as well as on tadpoles and small minnows. They are strong fliers that can be found quite some distance from water. Live specimens should be handled with care, as they can deliver a very painful ‘bite’ with their beak. See nos. 2751 and 2773 for other examples and http://tinyurl.com/yehfmw for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2803 Hi there, I recently moved into a new apartment and I keep finding these bugs in the kitchen. They are approximately 3-4mm in length (very small) and I see approximately 6 a day. They are easy to kill and I have sprayed Raid a few times in the evenings and wake up to a few dead on the floor but they keep coming back. Would love to know what they are and if I should be concerned. I am an extremely tidy person and clean constantly so I’m not sure why there coming back.. Thanks, Shari

This is a cockroach nymph, likely that of a brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa) - see http://tinyurl.com/25xtygj for a fact sheet. Cockroaches can present a serious control problem in large apartment complexes, as they readily move from unit to unit, and full control thus hinges on a cooperative effort involving all tenants as well as management. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2802 Hello, the attached photo shows some insects I have never seen before. Some of these were actually moving. I had recently termite treatment, could these be termite larvae? Thank you so much for your help. Jozo

It is difficult to be certain, but this appears to be a now empty case constructed by a small caterpillar. Depending on where you live (please specify your geographic location when submitting images), this could be a nuisance pest known as a household casebearer (Phereoeca uterella; Lepidoptera: Tineidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/dn4jn5 for detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2801 I have found two of these bugs in two days in my house in Texas...both in the bed. I think it's a kissing bug. I am worried about Chagas disease! What is this bug and why is it in my bed?

This is indeed a nymph of an assassin bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Reduviidae) in the genus Triatoma; possibly Triatoma gerstaeckeri, a potential vector of Chagas’ disease - see http://tinyurl.com/2cuvqr8 for a detailed article. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2800 I was on vacation for about 7 weeks, and when I came back home I found about 30 of these bugs, all upside down and dead or in the throes of death. Are they cockroaches or some other harmful pest. They are about 1/2 - 3/4" long. These were found in North-Central North Dakota, and all were in the basement. The above-ground floors appear to be clear of them. Regards, K. White

These are beetles in the family Scarabaeidae of the type known commonly as June bugs or May beetles. They often get inside after being attracted to lights at night, but do no harm there. Their larvae (white grubs) can be serious turf pests, feeding on roots of grasses. When I was growing up outside of Minot, portions of our lawn sometimes turned brown and could be rolled up like a carpet because these grubs had severed all the grass roots in those patches. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2799 Hello, I have been finding these critters in my house (usually in the tub, sometimes on the walls). We live in a brick bungalow right on Lake Erie in the Chatham-Kent area. I thought maybe in the centipede family but I'm not sure. This one was about an inch and a half long. It's about the biggest one I've seen. Thanks for your help.
This is a house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata - see no. 2769 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/2ce548j for a fact sheet with detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2798 Hello, found this spider out in the garden under a small spruce tree on Vancouver Island, BC. Any ideas on what type it is? Thanks!!

This is a mygalomorph (‘primitive’) spider, possibly a trap-door spider away from its burrow - see http://tinyurl.com/359th5c for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2797 I found masses of these little red and black beetles under the mulch on my perennials last June. Any idea what they are and whether or not I should be worried about them? I live near Brockville in Eastern Ontario. Catherine

These appear to be nymphs of burrower bugs (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Cydnidae); likely the white-margined burrower bug, Sehirus cinctus - see http://tinyurl.com/2aw4nkl for an image. They feed underground on plant roots, primarily of those in the mint family. They do not appear to be serious pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2796 I have attached a picture of a bug that we would find outside on our lawn, but now we are finding them in the house. They crawl and when placed on their back they hop/jump over to their feet. Any information you can give me on them would be greatly appreciated. I live in Surrey, British Columbia. Thank you, Dave

This is a click beetle (Coleoptera: Elateridae). They are able right themselves by ‘clicking’ a tongue-in-groove mechanism on the underside of their thorax. They primarily are leaf feeders, but seldom are numerous enough to cause any real damage. The larvae of some species (‘wireworms’) can be garden/field pests, feeding on underground parts of plants. See http://tinyurl.com/ygpv2k5 for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2795 We found this spider in our garage in Troy, IL. Can you confirm it is a Wolf spider? Thank you.

Although I cannot see its eyes, this looks more like a wolf spider than anything else. There are some grass spiders in the family Agelenidae that can have a similar appearance, but their spinnerets are much more prominent. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2794 Hi there! I live in Inverary Ontario. There are hundreds of these little beetles along the driveway and in my garden. I have never seen them before. Are they attracted to something in particular? Does anyone know what they are? Chelsea

These appear to be broad-nosed/short-snouted weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae) - see http://tinyurl.com/23amafz for an example. The adults are leaf feeders while their larvae primarily are root feeders; this group includes several pest species such as the strawberry root weevil and the black vine weevil. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2793 Is this a recluse spider? I live in northern Ontario, Canada

This appears to be a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Dolomedes; possibly the dark fishing spider, Dolomedes tenebrosus - see no. 2670 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/y9voahh for more images and detailed information. BTW, you are many hundreds of miles north of the known distribution of recluse spiders. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2792 Hi, This pest has recently shown up in our 5th wheel trailer as soon as the weather warmed up. The trailer is skirted over a sand base which had vegetation under it. We live in the West Kootenays. This is not found in any food products, all areas of the trailer have been inspected they just seem to come out of the woodwork or possibly up the drain that is open all the time to the sewer. Can you help identify this bug? Much thanks, Deb, Fauquier, BC

I do not believe that this is anything that you need to worry about. Although the image is not clear enough be certain, this looks more like a sap-feeding beetle (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) than anything else, see http://tinyurl.com/2dqvnf2 for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2791 Hi, can any one identify this insect? my dog caught it out on my veranda out back of house. Its a beautiful looking creature I would love to know the name of it. Charlie

This is a shield bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Scutelleridae); it appears to be Tectocoris diophthalmus, an Australian species known as the hibiscus or cotton harlequin bug - see http://tinyurl.com/24xm5sj. BTW, it would be helpful if contributors would specify where their photos were taken. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2790 Hi, I live in Toronto, and due to our mild winter I expected some things to be out of whack but I am hoping you can help! During the past week this bug has decided to infest my mugo pine, some look like him and others have a black head, they fly and make quite the buzzing noise, can be swatted easily. This morning alone I've killed approx 35. Any and all insight is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

The larger one appears to be a female pine false webworm, Acantholyda erythrocephala (Hymenoptera: Pamphiliidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/28g3ene for an image. The smaller, yellow-headed one likely is a male of the same species. All black ones you saw may be in other sawfly families, such as the Diprionidae. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2789 Found near a wooden chair with powdery frass. Any help would be most appreciated!

These are long-horned wood-boring beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in the genus Clytus - see http://tinyurl.com/2ax4h5a for an image. These beetles will not attack finished wood, but have been reported as emerging from wooden furniture that had been made from lumber obtained from trees that were infested with the beetles’ larvae. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2788 Hello Pest Control Canada; This bug was crawling on my wall this morning... see attached file... can you tell me what it is? It was ... I think... less than 1/4" long. Warren

This is a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae; subfamily Ptininae); likely a shiny spider beetle, Gibbium psylloides - see http://tinyurl.com/mamup5 for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2787 We live in Richmond, VA. Last spring these black bugs appeared in our basement, and this year they are back. They look like wasps when they fly because of the way their legs hang down. They fly slowly and seem to be harmless, but I haven't tried provoking one either!

This appears to be a black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens; Diptera: Stratiomyidae); see http://tinyurl.com/2bn6e3l for an image. They are harmless; their larvae are scavengers on decomposing organic matter, and may be found in compost piles, etc. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2786 Hi, I found this spider in our basement. We live in Calgary, Alberta. We have a newborn and a 21 month old. We would like to know what kind of spider this is and how to ensure we do not get any more! Should we be concerned? We appreciate your help and response. Thank you very much!!! Kristy and Mike

This appears to be Tegenaria domestica, a funnel web spider (family Agelenidae) known as a house spider - see http://tinyurl.com/y337umt for an image. This species is widespread in North America and Europe - see http://tinyurl.com/5owuzh. Although larger specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, they are not dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2785 This little fellow was found in the early evening sitting on one of the newly sprouted tulips in my garden in Milton, Ontario. It’s only 1 – 11/2 cm in length. It sat very still with its hind end resting on the flower itself. It doesn’t come out very well in the picture but it had a thin, black, for lack of a better description “beak” on its head. Six legs and swept back wings similar to large fly wings. Sean
This image also is too fuzzy to be certain, but this could be another bee fly (Diptera: Bombyliidae); see no. 2779. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2784 Is this a Wolf Spider? It is black. Its body is approx 5/8 inches long and 1 1/4 inches from back toe to front toe. (If they have toes.) Bruce

The image is too fuzzy to be certain, but this could be a hacklemesh weaver (family Amaurobiidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/2dlzo5d. They frequently are found indoors, and are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2783 My sister lives in Omaha, Nebraska. These rice sized larvae are all over their backyard concrete. They look harmless enough in a still photo, but they actually move around a lot. Just wondering if anyone has seen anything like this before or knows what they are? There are millions of them, and it appears they maybe fell out of their large backyard tree?? They had a pest control person come out and he had no idea what they were. Any help would be great! Thanks!

Although these bear some resemblance to the larvae of gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), the image is not clear enough to see any diagnostic characters. Also, the circumstances described do not seem to fit with the behavior of any species that I am familiar with. I suggest that you take some specimens to your county office of the University of Nebraska’s Cooperative Extension Service (see http://tinyurl.com/2afqw47 for contact links) for assistance in identification and any control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2782 Found this thing on my ceiling this morning. I live in Calgary, Alberta. I have the odd little spider around the place from time to time but nothing this large. Its body is almost 1/2 “ in length. I was able to trap it in a Tupperware container and it doesn’t seem able to climb the plastic walls. Would like to know what type it is so that I can decide to call external help if it is poisonous. Curtis.

This spider is in the family Agelenidae (funnel web/grass spiders), in the genus Tegenaria - see http://tinyurl.com/2ac3rvb for an image and no. 2749 for another example. Spiders in this genus often are found indoors; large specimens are capable of delivering a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2781 I recently found this on my farm near Lillooet BC. Any idea what kind of spider this is? Thank Ryan

This is a banded garden spider, Argiope trifasciata - see http://tinyurl.com/27ovqbr for an image. This is one of the larger and more colourful spiders in British Columbia; it is harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2780 Hello Web manager, This spider was found inside of a brass planter which hadn't been used for years. I dumped it out of the planter onto an aggregate walkway. The ruler graduations are 16ths of an inch. Thank you for your efforts. Jack

This is a fishing/nursery web spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Pisaurina; likely Pisaurina mira - see http://tinyurl.com/onwnr7 for an image. Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled; they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2779 This fly has a hairy body, is about 1-2cm long and has a long proboscis.

This is a bee fly (Diptera: Bombyliidae); it strongly resembles Bombylius major - see http://tinyurl.com/y4tnn69 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/2399uml for more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2778 Hello... How can one tell the difference between " beneficial grubs" (that eventually, will grow into beneficial insects) and the June Bug grubs? Is there a difference? I had counted 32 in this small area while I was digging up new flowerbed. Many differ in size and color. I don't kill any. We have a great population of birds. Some learned to hang around as soon as they see me dig dirt because I throw the grubs to birds.
Thank you... Sincerely; Elzbieta

These all appear to be larvae of beetles in the family Scarabaeidae and in the group that includes May beetles/June bugs and the like. To the best of my knowledge, none of these could be considered beneficial. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2777 Hello, I found this bug in the grass outside of my home in Springfield, PA in early April. It was a nice warm and sunny day right after a cold rainy day. I have never seen a bug like this and I was wondering if you could help me identify it. Thank you.

The larger beetle is a blister beetle (Coleoptera: Meloidae) in the genus Meloe; I cannot identify the smaller one that appears to be hitching a ride. Beetles in the genus Meloe sometimes are called ‘oil beetles’ because of the oily fluid that leaks from their leg joints when they are handled roughly. This fluid contains a chemical (cantharidin) that can cause blistering of tender skin. See http://tinyurl.com/y2u2sck for more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2776 Hello, this bug is very slow moving and it appears to have stunted 'wings' but cannot fly. It has short antennae that are bulbous on the ends. I've looked at many of the pictures on the Pest control Canada site, and it appears it may be a carpet beetle. However, it is almost totally black, without stripes, although there is a bit of brown patterning near the back. My main concern is whether or not it is a bedbug, even if it isn't, I probably should try some suggested solutions for getting rid of it. The bug is small, measuring 2 to 2.5 mm long. Thank you for your help. Ben

This does appear to be a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); there are carpet beetles that appear nearly uniform dark brown to black, and those whose color pattern results from scales on their body also can appear quite dark when these scales are rubbed off - see http://tinyurl.com/2cp28b4 and http://tinyurl.com/2en5ldz for examples. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2775 Hello. I live in Scarborough, ON and I and my neighbours get swarms of these insects in our yards from early spring to fall. They don't bite, but their swarming is irritating. Help with identification would be appreciated. Any hints on control or dealing with them?

These are non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae). Control is problematic because of the very widespread diffuse areas where their aquatic larvae can develop. See http://tinyurl.com/297sodd for some suggestions. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2774 I found this one in a cottage in Southern Spain (Andalucía) I have tried to get it identified but have been unsuccessful so far. Regards, Danny
This appears to be a huntsman/giant crab spider (family Sparassidae) in the genus Eusparassus - see http://tinyurl.com/2ea68bd for an example. These spiders can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, but they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2773 Chilliwack, BC. I saw this guy outside of our door at work, about 2 inches long, was very lethargic and unresponsive. parking lot is used by trucks from all over north America

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), a voracious predator on other aquatic invertebrates as well as on tadpoles and small minnows. They are strong fliers that can be found quite some distance from water. Live specimens should be handled with care, as they can deliver a very painful ‘bite’ with their beak. See no. 2751 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/yehfmw for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2772 This little creature has been showing up inside our home. We find it mostly on the floor in the basement, near the stairs going up. We live in Saskatchewan in an urban area. Thanks. Cathy

This is a larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius; Coleoptera: Dermestidae). As their larvae will feed on just about anything that contains animal protein, from cured meats to accumulations of dead insects, they may be pantry pests. See no. 2761 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/nw92wz for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2771 Help, I recently began seeing these pests in the kitchen and so far I have found and killed about a dozen of them in a mater of days. They seem to resemble bees in color but no wings and the body type does not match. I live in Southwest Ohio, and my husband recently traveled to Southern California for business. I am not sure if this is a pest he brought back with him or not. Any help would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks, Tara

These are large rove beetles (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae); possibly the hairy rove beetle, Creophilus maxillosus - see http://tinyurl.com/2aykyuw for an image. They are general predators on other small arthropods, and thus may be viewed as beneficial. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2770 My husband and I live in Queensland, Australia. We recently found the photographed bugs on our swamp cabbage. We cannot find any identification website in Australia. The bugs are about the size of a ladies' little fingernail. They are green with many tiny legs, and a broad black prickly-looking tail that curls up over their backs. They haven't invaded the climbing spinach, but we found one eating garlic chives. Are you able to help us? Regards, Valmai

The image is not clear enough to be certain, but these could be larvae of green lacewings (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae); they often disguise themselves with bits of debris, including victims of previous meals - see http://tinyurl.com/2a42efh for an example. They are general predators on other small arthropods and do not eat plants. About the only other arthropods with a similar appearance are the larvae of some leaf beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) that use their own feces as a shield - see http://tinyurl.com/24e2e5n for an example. You can find images of quite a few Australian insects at http://tinyurl.com/2affq3p and an insect identification service at http://tinyurl.com/mlycrg. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2769 I live in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. I have seen this extremely fast moving bug in my basement (stone foundation) and in my upstairs bathroom tub. It measures about 1 to 1.5 inches in length. I only see them from Spring to Fall--never in the Winter. I thought it might be a centipede, but now that I've seen some of the other photos on the site, I'm not quite sure. Thanks for the help! --Mike

This is a centipede, namely a house centipede, Scutigera coleoptrata - see http://tinyurl.com/2ce548j for a fact sheet with detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2768 These bugs are coming into our house. I don't know what they are. Mark

You may want to inspect your food/feed/grain storage areas for signs of insect infestation, as this weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) appears to be one of the grain weevils in the genus Sitophilus, such as the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae - see http://tinyurl.com/y48xmcx for an image and http://tinyurl.com/yfaa4cv for a fact sheet. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2767 Hello, I live in Sturgeon Falls, Ontario, Canada and found this spider in my basement maybe a week ago. I have been keeping it in a small baby food jar with some potting soil so far and, even though I've previously been afraid of spiders, find it very interesting and wouldn't mind keeping it as a sort of pet. I'm wondering what kind of spider it is exactly so I might be able to research it for care sheets. The spider is maybe the size of a dime or smaller with it's legs spread out. Hope to hear from you; Aly.

This is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae); possibly a Trochosa sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/2el429c for an example. See http://tinyurl.com/alb9e for a care sheet; although it is for a specific species (the Carolina wolf spider), the same principles would apply to your specimen. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2766 Dear Sir: I live in Ann Arbor, Michigan USA. When my outdoor cat coming back from outside, I find several (more than 10) of this pest from him. He is dirt and seems coming back from some kind of grass land. I use 20X magnification with the picture; so the pest is 2.5mm~3mm long. I urgently need to figure out what the pest is. Is it a normal cat parasite? thanks, Weijian

This is a very small rove beetle (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae); they are general predators on other small arthropods, and will not harm you or your cat. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2765 hello, me and me husband had some bites, so we thought we would have bedbugs and asked a bug control company to help and they sprayed some poison in the bedroom and part of the living room area. We found some bugs under the mattress (which we were throwing away) After my husband was away for 2 weeks, we start having 1 or two bites in the morning again (still sleeping on the sofa). Description: It has this black eyes and this red part on the front of the head, it has wings and it also looks like it has some feelers, and when we caught them inside glasses, they were jumping about 5 centimeters whenever we touched them with the border of the glass. We are living in Vienna, Austria. We would really appreciate some help! all the best, Lia

This insect is in the order Psocodea, of a type known as booklice or barklice. Although now grouped with true lice, they are harmless detrivores and would not be responsible for any bites. They formerly were placed in a separate order, Psocoptera - see http://tinyurl.com/yz9mmko for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2764 Found Surrey BC Canada. Approximate size 4inches long. Located near gas truck/pumps at a filling station.

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), a voracious predator on other aquatic invertebrates as well as on tadpoles and small minnows. See no. 2751 for another example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2763 I live in the Sierra foothills near Sacramento, CA. Lots of live (scrub) oaks. Hot and dry in the summer. These little guys are very common. Can you help us name them for our science project? Many thanks, Roger and Carson - Loomis, CA

This appears to be Largus californicus, a bordered plant bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera; Largidae); see http://tinyurl.com/23opa5r for images. They do not appear to be serious pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2762 Can you identify this bug for me?

This is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in the genus Anthrenus; perhaps Anthrenus verbasci, the varied carpet beetle. See no. 2733 for a similar example and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2761 HI I found this bug next to my daughters bed and right away thought it was a bed bug, now I am not sure. Could you please tell me what it is?

This is a larder beetle (Dermestes lardarius; Coleoptera: Dermestidae). As their larvae will feed on just about anything that contains animal protein, from cured meats to accumulations of dead insects, they may be pantry pests. See http://tinyurl.com/nw92wz for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2760 I found this one dead in my bed and another similar one on the wall behind my couch. I had bed bugs in a previous apt and I am just praying it is not them. I live in Santa Barbara, California.

This appears to be a ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae), a general predator on other small arthropods. They are completely harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2759 Hi There! What a great website you have! I hope you can help me, it's early spring here in New England (I'm in Hopkinton, MA-26 miles outside Boston) and I was out inspecting my ornamentals today and noticed these larval-like bugs all over the leaf buds on 2 of my Japanese Maples. They scrape off easy enough, and seem quite slow, but I would HEARTBROKEN to find they are detrimental to my beloved trees! I have a bloodgood maple that they have not affected-the species affected are the very thin leaved species, one green in color and one red in color. I did spritz the trees with an organic pesticide containing neem but figured it would be best to get a second opinion. Thank you in advance for your time! Julie

Although the image is not clear enough to see whether or not these insects have cornicles, they look more like aphids to me than anything else. If Neem is ineffective, try applications of an insecticidal soap. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2758 Hi I found quite a few of these winged insects in our house in Southern Alberta (near Taber). We have a wood stove and I believe they came from the wood box. Their bodies are dark brown with 3 white/tan stripes across top of body. Long legs, antenna and are fast movers. Are they termites? Are they dangerous to humans or houses? Thanks for your help.

This is a long-horned wood-boring beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); appearing much like a redheaded ash borer, Neoclytus acuminatus - see http://tinyurl.com/245rdqj for detailed information. It will not damage either humans or houses. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2757 Hi, We live in Carleton Place, Ontario. We have found two of these spiders in the past 48hours in our basement. According to your site, it looks like either a Wolf or Fishing spider would not be harmful to us...but I'd like to make sure that is indeed what it is. Is there a risk of being over run by these guys? Thanks so much for any info you can provide, Maryann

This appears to be a fine, fat (gravid?) female wolf spider (family Lycosidae). These frequently find their way indoors while hunting for prey. Although large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, they are not dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2756 Hello. My neighbor, Mrs. Nóe, found this larvae on a peach tree. She says that during the day stays on the tree base, at night it goes up maybe to eat leaves. It doesn't look good friend. The insect was found in January, in Tovar, Merida State, Venezuela. Thanks, Gustavo.

This is a caterpillar of a moth in the family Saturniidae. Spiny specimens such as this one need to be treated with extreme caution, as their spines often contain a venom that can cause severely painful skin rashes, and in the case of some in the genus Lonomia (see http://tinyurl.com/23bvft5), even severe internal bleeding that can terminate fatally. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2755 New neighbours moved in a week ago, just yesterday I noticed these bugs crawling on the walls. Can you please tell me what they are? Roger

These appear to be bed bugs (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Cimicidae); Cimex sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/y5v6hpa for a dorsal view of one. A very detailed article on these pests can be seen at http://tinyurl.com/5l5y95. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

These my friend are good old bed bugs. I would contact a local pest control company and get this looked after. Ryan M. Pest Control Technician

2754 Greetings, these large( approx 2'') beetles appeared last year in April feeding on my Japanese anemone leaves. Are they a type of blister beetle ? My location is central NJ in the US ~ zone 6 ~ hmmmmm...what to do ? Thanks in advance to anyone who can assist. Therese

This is a blister beetle (Coleoptera: Meloidae) in the genus Meloe. Beetles in this genus also sometimes are called ‘oil beetles’; when handled roughly, they will ‘bleed’ from weak points in their leg joints, and this fluid (haemolymph) contains a chemical called cantharidin that can cause blistering on tender skin. See http://tinyurl.com/y2u2sck for more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2753 Hello! In Toronto and found these under some leaves and looks like they are in the wood. What are they and should I be doing anything? Thanks

These are ants, apparently a queen and a worker; these do not appear to be any species that would be a structural pest. See http://tinyurl.com/y3ht96u for a publication on common household ants of Ontario. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2752 Hello, We live in a basement/garden view apartment. I have seen a few of these in the baby's rm and the bathroom. . It is not larger then a pea. The legs are a light brown almost clear looking. I have a dog and was concerned it is a tick but any of the pictures I have looked at, do not match this bug. Please help. Thank you very much, Kelly

This is a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae; subfamily Ptininae); likely the American spider beetle, Mezium americanum. See http://tinyurl.com/y4twr3v for an image and http://tinyurl.com/mamup5 for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2751 Dear Sir, My dog went after this “bug” last night on my deck. Thinking it was a cockroach it got jumped on by my wife. As we have just moved back to Canada after living in Saudi Arabia and Cyprus for the last 15 years it was understandable, she hates cockroaches. I had a look at the remains this morning and I do not know what it is. It measures 6.5 cm In length. We live in Aurora, Ontario. Regards Anthony

This is a giant water bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Belostomatidae), a voracious predator on other aquatic invertebrates as well as on tadpoles and small minnows. They are strong fliers that can be found quite some distance from water. Live specimens should be handled with care, as they can deliver a very painful ‘bite’ with their beak. See http://tinyurl.com/yehfmw for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2750 Can you identify this bug?

This appears to be a leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in the genus Trirhabda - see http://tinyurl.com/yylwj3z for an image. These commonly are found on goldenrod. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2749 Hi there, I live on northern Vancouver Island and have seen lots of these in my house. I talked to my friends and they see these lots also, I was wounding what kind they were and how to help get rid of them. Thank you for your time.

This a funnel web spider (family Agelenidae) in the genus Tegenaria; see http://tinyurl.com/y337umt for an example. Reliable identification to species level requires microscopic examination. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2748 Many of these ants have appeared suddenly over the last few days in the kitchen, that opens into the back deck and the garden. The weather has been unseasonably warm. Are they carpenter ants - our fear! - or the usual harmless garden variety? Thanks, Tony K, Toronto, Canada.
Although the diagnostic characters (thorax smoothly rounded when viewed from the side, and a circlet of golden hairs at the tip of the abdomen) cannot be seen in this image, its overall appearance is consistent with it being a carpenter ant (Camponotus sp.). Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2747 On a recent trip to Lebanon found this spider in the place we stayed. This was the second one that was seen during the visit. The 1st one was much bigger and had a larger round rear end. Any help to identify it would be appreciated.

This is a male mygalomorph spider in the family Theraphosidae (tarantulas and allies); such as those in the genus Chaetopelma- see http://tinyurl.com/y6hfm7r for an example. The larger one you saw may have been a female. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2746 Hi, I took the picture In Brantford Ontario on October 31, 2009. I would appreciate any help you can provide. Many thanks - Murray

Like no. 2735, this appears to be a western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae) - see nos. 2701 and 2651 for other examples. They frequently come indoors during the autumn in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2745 Hello, I've been periodically finding these bugs in my bathroom over the past few weeks and am dying to know what they are. I haven't found them anywhere else in my apartment. I was afraid they might be bed bugs, but since neither me or my roommate have any sort of bites, I'm now thinking it might be a spider beetle? Thanks! Molly
This is indeed a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae; subfamily Ptininae); likely a shiny spider beetle, Gibbium psylloides - see http://tinyurl.com/mamup5 for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2744 I am in Seattle, Washington. We just had a redwood cedar play system installed and this particular insect loves it. In the past day we have run into probably close to 100 of them. They seem to be mating as they are often seen in two's. They are on the vinyl canopy, scoop slide as well as all over the wood. For the life of me, I cannot figure out what they are nor what actions I should take. Please help identify what this is! I thank you in advance and definitely appreciate your website.

I hope that a Diptera expert is monitoring this site, as I cannot pin a name on this one. I’m sure that I have seen similar specimens before, but my memory is utterly failing me at this point. If I can come up with anything later, I will revise this answer. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2743 I leave in New Jersey. We found hundreds of these bugs next to a sliding door that goes to my garden. They died because of prior application of a long effect insecticide. They have a small body (3mm) and really long wings (about 1 cm) They also have long antennae. Most of the wings seemed to fall off when they died. We recently had a significant amount of rain and a couple of warm days. . I would appreciate any help on what they could be. Thanks, Sebastian

You probably should schedule your home for a professional termite inspection, as what you have here is a winged (reproductive) subterranean termite. See http://tinyurl.com/y7uoqnx for a starting point. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2742 Hi, We find these in our basement quite regularly....they are small, move slowly even when disturbed, sometimes roll up into little ball. I find more dead or at least not moving than alive...Our basement is laminate floor and concrete under that. Previous owners owned pets, and I assume they had the run of the house , if that helps. thank you, Wayne.

This is a terrestrial crustacean in the order Isopoda. Ones that can roll themselves into a tight ‘ball’ often are called pillbugs; other common names include woodlice, sowbugs, and roly polies - see http://tinyurl.com/y7phfmo. They basically are harmless scavengers on decomposing organic material, but some occasionally can cause injury to very tender plants. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2741 I live in Fredericton, New Brunswick and I found this lovely fellow on this inside of a shed door.

This is a lovely example of a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Dolomedes. It could be either Dolomedes scriptus (see http://tinyurl.com/y5dqla3) or D. tenebrosus (see http://tinyurl.com/y52p8jj). Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, but they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2740 Hello, We have many tiny worm-like bugs in our dining room and kitchen. They crawl up the wall and hang out on the ceiling. I think they might be coming from a baseboard but I can't be certain. Anyway, I looked at one under a microscope and notice they have what seems to be the tail of a shrimp and the exterior is a segmented shell with a pair of legs per segment. I will attach the picture for identification. Thanks for any help you can give me. Jeff in Oregon

This is an interesting little millipede known as a duff millipede (class Diplopoda, order Polyxenida, family Polyxenidae) they sometimes are mistaken for larvae of carpet beetles. The bristles on their body serve as protection from predators - see http://tinyurl.com/yg9jr5a for detailed information on their life history. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2739 Hello. I found this bug in a gerbera crop in Merida state, Venezuela. It is 5 mm long.

Although this bug superficially resembles a stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), it more likely is in the family Rhopalidae (scentless plant bugs). Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2738 When I went down to check on my plants, I found this guy sitting on one of my Lavatera or Geranium leaves. I did some research and it looks like a female false blister beetle. I read that they lay eggs in decomposing wood, which comes mixed into the miracle gro soil. It is freezing cold outside and has been all winter. Can you confirm this species for me, and let me know if there are any dangers. Also would like to know it's world origin and where this one possibly came from. I live in Southern Ontario, Canada. Thank you very much. Dave

This is not a beetle, but a leaf-footed bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae); appearing to be in the genus Leptoglossus - see no. 2735 for a similar example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2737 Hi from Toronto Canada. I've been finding a number of these around the house, they are about 2-3 mm. I've mostly seen them in the basement since we have began Reno's. Please Help me with this mystery guest. When touched they play dead. Thank You. William

This is a spider beetle (Coleoptera: Anobiidae; subfamily Ptininae); likely a shiny spider beetle, Gibbium psylloides. These beetles will feed on a wide variety of ornagic materials, and may become pantry pests - see http://tinyurl.com/mamup5 for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2736 I live in Ohio, and found this insect while I was splitting wood. I am constantly splitting wood and haven't came across this insect yet, until today. I was just curious what it was, and if it is any concern to the trees. Thanks in advance.

This is a locust borer (Megacyllene robiniae; Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); it will do no harm indoors. See no. 2711 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/y866cqx for details on its life history. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2735 I found this bug in my basement. I live in London, Ontario. It would be most helpful if you could identify it and let me know if its poisonous. Thanks.

This appears to be a western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae) - see nos. 2701 and 2651 for other examples. They frequently come indoors during the autumn in search of overwintering shelter. They are nuisance pests indoors, and are not poisonous/venomous in any respect. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2734 Hi, I have a question about insect from my bedroom: In the autumn and spring I am often bitten by an insect, it looks a bit red, cca 10 mm big, swollen and it tickles very much. It can last for a week. It usually appears on legs or arms, rarely on a body. It disappears in summer and in winter. My bed is new, spring mattress is made from latex. The house is new and a bit too damp. There is 18-20 degrees C in the bedroom, we use electric dehumidifier. I live in Slovenia, Middle Europe. I've found this in the middle of the bed. It looked like almost dead, it could hardly move. Could it be Silverfish? As you can see on the picture, its body is 7-8 mm long, pulps and legs are broken. I'll be very thankful to know, what's biting us. Thank you in advance, Rok

Like nos. 2730 and 2731, this also appears to be a bristletail, but it is not in good enough shape to determine whether or not it is a silverfish. They are extremely unlikely to be a source of ‘bug bites.’ Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2733 I found this little guy on a wall in my bedroom. He does have wings - any thoughts? I'm thinking carpet beetle. I also find small little worms on the walls of my bedroom from time to time - not in groups, just a single one. They're beige / brown striped and don't seem to move much. I think they're carpet beetle larvae but am not sure - couldn't find one for a picture but thought I'd ask anyway. Thanks! Tyler

This is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); likely in the genus Anthrenus, such as the varied carpet beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) - see nos. 2719 and 2715 for other examples, http://tinyurl.com/ycowta7 for an image, and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2732 Hello, I have a spider here I was hoping someone can identify. I was recently in Colombia, around Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Park on the Atlantic coast. I threw my shirt on in the morning and unbeknownst to me this fella was on my shoulder. Someone quickly got him off. The peso in the shot next to him for scale is almost exactly the same size as a quarter. Thanks for your help! Andres

This is a mygalomorph spider (tarantulas, etc.). Many species of these spiders occur in Colombia; I am unable to provide a specific identity for this one. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2731 I have a picture here of what I believe to be, but am praying its not, a silverfish. (you may need to zoom in on it) It was found in my bathroom and is the third one I have killed in the last week. I live in northern British Columbia in an apartment. I have only been here about 4 months but I haven't seen these guys until really just a couple weeks ago. Thank you.

This also appears to be a bristletail, but it is not in good enough shape to determine whether or not it is a silverfish. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2730 I swiped this bug off my leg whilst sleeping and it felt like it bit me? We are in SW Ontario.
I cannot be absolutely certain, but this looks more like the mortal remains of a bristletail (order Thysanura), such as a silverfish (see http://tinyurl.com/cmar94 for an image). They do not appear capable of biting humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2729 Please help I don't know what this is! Found it on my tomato plant, also what is on the caterpillar.

This appears to a tobacco hornworm, the larval stage of Manduca sexta (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae); the white objects are the cocoons of the larvae of parasitic wasps in the family Braconidae. See http://tinyurl.com/2xpovk for a fact sheet on this insect and its close relative, the tomato hornworm, Manduca quinquemaculata. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2728 Hi again, I live in Los Angeles and found 3 of these in the bottom drawer and directly underneath on the floor of my kitchen and another walking along the counter in the same area. They are only 1mm wide and about 3-4mm long. They seem to have a hard shell and are somewhat hard to squash. I've never seen anything like these. I'm just moving in and want to know how big of a problem this will be. (I really just hope that they're not roaches.) Sincerely, Janeal
This is a grain beetle (Coleoptera: Silvanidae; Oryzaephilus sp.); the image is not clear enough to determine whether it is a saw-toothed grain beetle (O. surinamensis) or a merchant grain beetle (O. mercator). Both species have very similar life histories and can be pantry pests. See http://tinyurl.com/yl2hx6l for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2727 I found these bugs in the basement. 3 were on the stick back of a adhesive wall hook that had fallen of the wall. A couple more were found on the top of a white plastic drawer set

These are sowbugs, terrestrial crustaceans in the order Isopoda; see no. 2708 and http://tinyurl.com/yl8xl8g for other examples. These are harmless scavengers on decomposing organic matter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2726 I live in Washington State by the Tri-Cities. These little guys 1/4in just kind of hang out, mostly in the winter/early spring. They like the bathroom, tub, windows but I have found them in the rest of the house windows, counters. They don't fly and their body seems kind of hard. They also seem to die very quickly. They do get in the lights as well. I'm just curious as to what they are. Also they seem to be very common in this area.

This appears to be a scentless plant bug (Hemipera/Heteroptera: Rhopalidae) such as those in the genus Arhyssus - see http://tinyurl.com/ygwzdz5 for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2725 I was hoping you could tell me what these are? The appear to have leg buds so my thought is a caterpillar of some sort but they stink like maggots. There were recently approximately 10,000 plus outside of my garage and appear to have come from more than one "hatch" since they were in varying stages of development (either that or possibly two entirely different species). There is very little vegetation on my property in Littlerock, CA and so I was hoping to get some help identifying these so that I can be educated as to whether they are a pest or beneficial. Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated. April Lee

The image provided is not clear enough for a definitive identification, Although there is some resemblance to cutworm-like caterpillars, it would be very unusual for them to occur in a mass like this. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2724 Hello- Attached please find 2 photos of some 'bugs' we have been finding in our house recently. We live in Saskatoon, SK, and these things have been found on our hardwood floors or on the hardwood stairs. Over the past month, we have found maybe 10-12 or so of them. They have not been alive until the one we found today. It is about 0.75-1cm long. Do you have any ideas? Thank you for your assistance. Joan

This is a millipede, an arthropod in the class Diplopoda. Species such as this one are harmless scavengers on decomposing organic matter. They require abundant moisture/high humidity in order to survive; those coming indoors usually die of desiccation. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2723 Hi Ed, I wonder if you might be able to identify this spider I found in our home in Kamloops, BC. I was wondering if it might be a Hobo spider or a Funnel Weaver Spider? I've been checking all the other spider pictures, the Spiders Only section and other websites, and can't seem to figure it out. I hope you can help! Thanks so much. Athena

This is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae), possibly in the genus Pardosa. These spiders frequently come indoors while searching for prey; large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, but they otherwise are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2722 Hi, In the past week, we have been finding 4-5 of these creepy insects in our home each day, on the floor, counter and side tables and now on the 2nd floor of our house. They have a very hard shell. Our house is 5 years old and we live on Vancouver Island, BC. I hope you are able to help and give suggestions on how to get rid of them. Many thanks. Ken

This is a long-horned wood-boring beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); I cannot be absolutely certain, but this might be Eumichthus oedipus - see http://tinyurl.com/yj73v37 for an image. There are similar appearing species in other genera, but their femora are not as swollen as seen in this specimen. You do not need to worry about getting rid of them; beetles such as this one are harmless. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2721 Can anyone identify this insect, please? It is common to southeast Georgia near Savannah. Thanks, Windell

This is a bumble bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae; Bombus sp.); it might be Bombus bimaculatus, a relatively common species - see http://tinyurl.com/yef7otd for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2720 Toronto, Ontario - Yesterday afternoon out of nowhere, what seems like a pest invasion magically appeared in our finished basement. What seemed like hundreds of these were everywhere on the floor, and furniture and all seemed to be heading towards the basement windows. We took the "kill first, ask questions later" approach. They all seemed to be coming from the gap underneath the baseboard of an interior wall. We have never seen these before and we've been in this home over 8 years. Does anyone know what these are and if I have anything to worry about? Thanks.

This is a winged (reproductive caste) ant, but I cannot be certain of its specific identity. On the chance that it might be a larger yellow ant (Acanthomyops interjectus - see http://tinyurl.com/ybcubdp and scroll down), check to see if you have any wood in direct contact with the soil, as they may make ‘nests’ in very damp, rotting wood. They are not structural pests and will not damage sound wood. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2719 Hello, I live in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The size is shown again 1/16 of inch. The bugs are coming out from inner wall space in basement in large quantities. It is probably activated especially now in spring season. Could you identify please? Thank you, Alex

This appears to be another example of a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); likely in the genus Anthrenus, such as the varied carpet beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) - see no. 2715 for another example, http://tinyurl.com/ycowta7 for an image, and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2718 Hi, we found this bug in our bathroom in our house in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We returned 4 weeks ago from a vacation in Hawaii and our fear is that this is bug could be an unwanted souvenir, perhaps a Cockroach nymph? Thanks, Brian

This is an adult cockroach, but I cannot tell which species from this image. The well-known pest species, the German cockroach (Blattella germanica) does occur in Calgary - see http://tinyurl.com/yb6ww45 for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2717 I found this spider on the wall in my house early in the morning. I live in Ottawa, Ontario. Can anyone tell me what type of spider it is?Thanks, Shanna

I cannot be certain, but this could be a funnelweb spider (family Agelenidae) in the genus Tegenaria - see http://tinyurl.com/yex3225 for an example. As with no. 2714, a clear view of its eyes and spinnerets would be helpful. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2716 I live in Southern Central Siberia (relatively low humidity, temps range from -40 to +40C) in a log house with a dirt cellar. I started heating this house shortly before moving in, in December, and noticed these spiders within a few weeks. The body is about 8-10mm long. I usually see them in open spaces, on walls, floor or furniture, during the day. In the evening they seem to disappear. I've never seen these spiders in a web. They are not at all aggressive even when I poke at them with a piece of paper. If they are free, they just crawl away. If in captivity, they ignore it, or play dead. How long do they live?) I'm pretty sure they are wolf spiders (F. Lycosidae). I'd like confirmation on this, and am interested to know the genus and species.

This does indeed appear to be a wolf spider (family Lycosidae). Although it bears some resemblance to Pardosa paludicola (see http://tinyurl.com/yane28y), I would hesitate to call it that for certain, as there are at least 24 species in that genus known from Siberia, and images do not appear available for all of them. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2715 Hi, I've been finding a number of these around the house. They looks like 2-3 mm. I've mostly seen them on the walls and near window sills. Any ideas on what it is? Thanks! Jenny

This is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); likely in the genus Anthrenus, such as the varied carpet beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) - see no. 2703 for another example, http://tinyurl.com/ycowta7 for an image, and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2714 March 13, 2010 - Toronto Canada - Found on the floor of our bathroom, This spider is black, the body 3/8" to 1/2". Front legs are longest. Resembles a black house spider, but not sure whether these are found in Canada. Any idea what it is?

The position of this specimen makes identification difficult (a clear view of its eyes and spinnerets would be helpful), but it definitely is not a black house spider (Badumna insignis); these are found in Australia and New Zealand. It might be a wolf spider (family Lycosidae) or a ground spider (family Gnaphosidae); both harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2713 Hi I've attached a picture of a bug. I know there has been bed bugs in my building. This bug has different antennae than any bed bug pic I have seen on the web. I found this one bug on the wall by my computer table. This was taken in January and I haven't seen anymore of them. Neither my kids or I have any bug bites, but I am curious as to what this is. Thanks.

This is a cockroach nymph; if you see more, you may have a problem. I’m not sure of its specific identity - it looks somewhat like a very pale German cockroach (Blattella germanica) - see http://tinyurl.com/c9ovcr for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2712 Hi there, I have first found this little insect in the bathtub and in the sink. But afterwards, I found they on kitchen floor and walls in the bathroom. They look hairy and their body seem to be soft. I live in Aberdeen, Scotland. Thank you.

This is a wooodlouse, a terrestrial crustacean in the order Isopoda. Also known as sowbugs, they usually are scavengers on decomposing organic matter. Yours bears some resemblance to Porcellio spinicornis, a common and very widespread species - see http://tinyurl.com/yax9ryb and scroll down. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2711 We live in southern Michigan. This is a bug that we find throughout our house. No certain places, anywhere from our bathroom to our living room and kitchen. It flies, and is very fast like a spider. Not sure of anything else of it besides its very weird looking.

This is a locust borer (Megacyllene robiniae; Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); it will do no harm indoors. See http://tinyurl.com/y866cqx for details on its life history. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2710 Found this walking across the basement carpet here, during a cold January. Brick-red markings on a dull black body, lots of red on the underside too. Canadian dime for scale, 3/4" diameter. We're in the middle of farm (grain crop) country, have indoor plants, and dogs that go in and out. Wondering if it is a threat to any of those. Looks a little like a 2523 "plant bug", but broader. Thanks!

This is a two-spotted stink bug (Perillus bioculatus; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae); the colour of their markings can be quite variable - see http://tinyurl.com/ylry44y for an example. This species is predaceous on other small arthropods, and thus may be beneficial. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2709 Hi I live in Kuwait, and i found this very small insect like powder spot in my bathroom in the beginning, and then I found more in the closet which is attached to the bathroom without a door in between and then much more in the bathroom, my closet is all wood inserted in the walls and in my bathroom there are wooden shelves and cabinets. thanks

Although this resembles a tropical rat mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti) - see http://tinyurl.com/ye3vrdz - the image is not clear enough to be certain. However, if you have a local rodent problem, this would be a possibility. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2708 Hey I found this bug in my kitchen I think they live under my kitchen cabinets , and that's really the only place. they mainly come out when it's dark. If you can identify it that would be great. Adam

This is a sowbug, a terrestrial crustacean in the order Isopoda, possibly a Porcellio sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/yl8xl8g for an example. These are harmless scavengers on decomposing organic matter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2707 hello - these were under an old bed in a guest room that stays closed pretty much the entire year. the photo is taken with a loupe, but it's the best I could get. is it an old bedbug? Some friends stayed with us from Toronto right when all the media hype surrounding their infestation was circulating. Thanks. we're itching to know. Matt

This is a larval ‘skin’ (exoskeleton) of a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), likely in the genus Anthrenus - see http://tinyurl.com/yg7rxs5 for a live example and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2706 We have these insects inside our house. We find one or two a day usually on the carpet or occasionally on top of a bed or on the wall. We find them alive and crawling. They do not scurry away when I attempt to pick them up. They do not appear to bite. Someone told me it was a nymph of a stink bug or a shield bug but pictures don't look exactly the same. What is this insect? Thanks - Emily in Northern California

Stink bugs (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) constitute a very large family whose members can vary considerably in appearance - see http://tinyurl.com/y9ck84l for some examples. That aside, yours appears to be in the superfamily Lygaeoidea (seed bugs) Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2705 We live on Vancouver Island in Comox, BC. I found this bug on my son's mattress, under the sheet on top of a foam (sponge) pad. I'm pretty sure that I saw it vibrate some tiny wings but it hasn't flown. The picture was taken with a paper match for size comparison but it kept walking away. Is this a carpet beetle? Thanks, Wayne

This does appear to be another carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in the genus Anthrenus - see no. 2703. See http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2704 These bugs are about 3/8 inch. I don't know where the come from. They fly like they have no direction. Easy to kill, will land anywhere and stay a long time. They don't spook when you get near.
This appears to be an Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella; Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a cosmopolitan pest of many dry stored food items. See http://tinyurl.com/ydcqqnd for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2703 Hi, I live in Vancouver, BC, and I have found these little insects around the second floor of my house the last few weeks. Most of the ones I've found are scattered around the floor, dead; the live ones have been on window sills, "swimming" in my pets' water bowl, and resting on random walls or beds, though they do not travel in pairs or groups. They're about 1mm in size, and they appear to be able to fly. There are a variety of birds (European starlings, crows, and pigeons mainly) that nest on my roof, so maybe they're from the nests? I haven't found any larva, shed skin, eggs or nest/infestation site anywhere in my house - and trust me, I've looked! I would appreciate it if somebody could identify what they are, so that I can properly get rid of them. Thank you.

These are carpet beetles (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), likely in the genus Anthrenus such as the varied carpet beetle (Anthrenus verbasci) - see http://tinyurl.com/ycowta7 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. The birds’ nests very well could be a source of infestation; you might try removing as many of these as practical. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2702 Hello, Can you tell us what this bug is and how to get rid of them? We find them occasionally on our carpet in the basement. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Thank You, Daryl

These are centipedes, active predators on other small arthropods. If you see many of these, it could be indicative of significant insect populations in your house. As it is nearly impossible to completely prevent their entry into a home, the best control is keeping insects out as best you can, and eliminating unnecessary sources of moisture, as they are susceptible to desiccation. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2701 What is this bug and how do we get rid of it? First spotted outdoors around when it started getting cold. not sure if they were around in summer or just did not see them. Appeared to be more active in heat. now they are in the house. we find one or two flying and landing everyday. They are about the size of a nickel or quarter. They don't appear to have a bad odor when smashed. They seem to have hooked feet because when you try to flick them off they attached.

This appears to be a western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae) - see no. 2651 for another example. They frequently come indoors during the autumn in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2700 Wondering what kind of spider this is?

This is a male running crab spider (family Philodromidae); probably Philodromus dispar - see http://tinyurl.com/yg2264c for an image. They are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2699 Hi; We just returned to our home in Yellowknife from a 3-wk holiday, only to find that we've been invaded by this type of spider. Several of these spiders reveal themselves in the bathroom, kitchen and living room. My irrational fears aside, I wish they would find somewhere else to live. I would appreciate someone identifying the spider for me so that I can scream it's proper name in the likelihood that I encounter one again in the next few minutes! Thanks - Arachnophobia in Yellowknife, NT, Canada. Sincerely, Valerie
About all I can say here is that this is not a dangerous spider; based primarily on its leg positions, it might be a running crab spider (family Philodromidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/ybk5zbh for an example. A clear view of the spider’s eye pattern would help in its identification. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2698 I've lived here ten years and I've never seen these before. Then nine months ago I took on tenets and when they moved out I started finding these on the kitchen floor. They may be elsewhere but they are so small (about 3/8" of an inch in length) I haven't noticed them anywhere else. They are hard as if in a shell. C. Lindstrom, SC
Except for the size you mention, these look like rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae; Coleoptera: Curculionidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/yhz99r2 for an image. These weevils usually are only about 1/8" long; their larvae will feed in a wide variety of whole grains as well as in some pasta products - see http://tinyurl.com/yfaa4cv for a detailed fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2697 We're from Houston, TX, and have been finding these bugs crawling around the walls, floors, windowsills in our main rooms (living, dining, kitchen which are all connected). They are about 1-2 mm long, and 1 mm wide. We've also had a few flying insects around (very small, we thought they were fruit flies) -- don't know if those are related to these crawling bugs. Thanks!
This could be a drugstore beetle (Stegobium paniceum; Coleoptera: Anobiidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/yjtoj3k for an image. Along with their relative the cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne), these insects will infest an extremely wide variety of stored products. See http://tinyurl.com/dba9uj for a detailed fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2696 I have landed on this bug multiple times, in various sizes and places. I found 8 of them at once in a corner behind my desk... they played dead but weren't. They seem to centipedes, in the sense that they have a lot of little legs.. I cannot confirm antennas... no jaws or biting that I can see. no tail. I was cleaning my tablecloth and found some underneath it too! This is Montreal, Canada, and its Quite cold. There was a lot of ear-wigs during the summer, could this be the larvae form waiting for spring ?
This appears to be the shed ‘skin’ (exoskeleton) of a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae (hide/skin/larder/carpet beetles). See http://tinyurl.com/ydulzgg for an image of larvae and an adult of the black carpet beetle, Attagenus unicolor. The larvae of these beetles will feed on a very wide variety of organic materials, including wool and silk fabrics - see http://tinyurl.com/ycudsrr for a fact sheet with detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2695 This pest seems to be similar to an ant and a spider but seems to be neither. I find them in my house in Hollister California. I thought perhaps they were related to termites. I know the house had (has?) termites. Do they eat wood? They are about 1 cm in size, however, the pest in this picture may not be fully mature. I think I have seen larger ones. I'm not sure, but I think they are in my wall.
This is indeed a spider, but not a dangerous one. I cannot be certain of an i.d., but it may be one of the ground spiders in the family Gnaphosidae - see http://tinyurl.com/yjrdvrt for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2694 Hobo spider or wolf spider? or other?
This is a male spider in the family Agelenidae, a Tegenaria sp.; although this is the genus to which the hobo spider (Tegenaria agrestis) belongs, identification based on an image like yours is problematic at best. See http://tinyurl.com/cmphed for detailed information on this subject. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2693 I live in central Alberta, and am on an acreage where the soil is very sandy. Two years ago we started to have small ants noticeable in our house, which is on a heated concrete slab. They have become progressively worse, and regular ant baits seem to have no impact. Any suggestions? Thanks
I cannot pin a specific i.d. on this ant; it bears some resemblance to a Lasius sp. (see http://tinyurl.com/ylzngaq for an example), but these seldom are household pests. Another possibility is the larger yellow ant, Acanthomyops interjectus - see http://tinyurl.com/yjo3dup for an image. Also known as the citronella ant, they give off a strong citrus-like odor when crushed. Although nuisances, they reportedly seldom constitute a serious problem. You may have to consult a pest control professional if your control efforts are ineffective. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2692 We live near Seattle, WA and for the past week or so we have been finding these flying critters in our home near the dining room and living room. They seem to fly towards the light. They look like a small flying beetle of some sort. The larger beetle in the photo is a live bug and the smaller is his dead cousin found in a light fixture. Are these some kind of meal beetle? Lets hope they have a short life span. Couldn’t seem to find these guys in the other photo’s posted. HELP!
These are two different species of long-horned wood-boring beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in the genus Semanotus. The upper one appears to be Semanotus litigiosus, a pine borer (see http://tinyurl.com/y94c4ot for an image) and the lower one appears to be Semanotus ligneus, a cedar tree borer (see http://tinyurl.com/yfpdj55 for an image. These will not cause any harm indoors. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2691 Hi, I so glad to come across your website. Hopefully you can identify these unwelcome visitors. The small one walked on the tiles above the counter. The small beetle just showed up one or two weeks ago, but I find them now daily. At least 2 sometimes 3 a day. Are those carpet beetles? Why is one 1/2 the size of the other? We live in Sorrento, B.C. Thank you, Rosemarie
The beetle shown is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); likely the varied carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci - see http://tinyurl.com/ycowta7 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2690 Please could you help identify this bug. Found in my garden on a tulip leaf. Thank you.

This appears to be a lily leaf beetle (Lilioceris lilii; Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a pest species accidentally introduced from Europe. See http://tinyurl.com/yjnttjr for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2689 We found this spider near a pile of wood near our fireplace. It had made it's "nest" about 3 inches off the ground and seems to have had babies (pin prick sized) nearby. What is it?
This is a comb-footed/cobweb spider (family Theridiidae); it may be Steatoda triangulosa - see http://tinyurl.com/ydck5e2 for an image. Although this spider belongs to the same family as the notorious black widow spider, it is harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2688 Any ideas? Mark
This is a stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae); if you are in the northeastern United States or southeastern Canada, it might be a brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) - see http://tinyurl.com/44kr59. This is an introduced that often enters buildings in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2687 3 weeks ago I found a few reddish, brown beetles in a sink in my basement. I find them mainly under/ in bathmats, towels or things on the floor. This morning I found hundreds of dead and live beetles in my utility room in the basement. They were hundreds of them dead on copper in floor heating pipelines. I observed them coming up through cracks in the cement. We had a flood that started in our utility room about 2 months ago. We used dehumidifiers and strong fans to dry the area. Could this pest problem start with moisture? Please, please help me. Jody
This does not appear to be a structural pest of any kind; if it is quite small (less than 4 mm), it may be a flour beetle Tribolium sp.; Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/yevak4j for detailed information and images. These insects usually are found in grain-derived dry food products (including dry pet food); do you store any such in your basement? . Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2686 Hi, love the site. I live in SW Florida. Can you help me identify this crazy looking creature? It is flat as paper and about ¼ inch long and I only see them either hanging on the wall up by the ceiling in the closet that is attached to the bathroom or on the floor in the bathroom. They seem to come out at night and I only notice them moving if I just stare at it. It looks like a tiny worm comes out of it with a long antenna. When I pick it up to get rid of it, it is perfectly still and has no legs that I can see. If I move the worm disappears. Help! Joyce
This appears to be a household casebearer, a.k.a.’plaster bagworm’ (Phereoeca sp.; Lepidoptera: Tineidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/dn4jn5 for detailed information including images. They basically are nuisance pests, feeding primarily on old spider webs and the like. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2685 Hi: I live in NYC and have been finding a few of these tiny (2-4mm long) insects every few days. They are usually on the kitchen counter, sometimes the floor and they are often on their back, seemingly unable to right themselves. They never move much, move VERY slowly when they do. I see a slightly lengthened proboscis and the seem to be in the weevil family (not that I'm an entomologist!) The apt is new construction—2 years old. NOTE: photos show insect on its' back. I'd appreciate any info you can provide. Thanks

This is a weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Because of its shape and small size, it may be one of the grain weevils in the genus Sitophilus - see http://tinyurl.com/yecu3mh for a fact sheet. These beetles feed only on whole grains rather than processed products, and thus usually are granary pests rather than pantry pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2684 Hello, This what I believe is a beetle was found in Northwestern Ontario. Thanks for the identification. Matt
This appears to be a buffalo carpet beetle, Anthrenus scrophulariae (Coleoptera: Dermestidae); see http://tinyurl.com/yb79c7k for an image and http://tinyurl.com/y9yaqaa for a fact sheet with detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2683 I found this insect on my patio table, it seems to have a very hard body, but it was the head that i found interesting, i would love to have more information on this as i am hoping it doesn't kill my plants it's location is Brownsburg, Quebec, Zone 4 (July)
This is a weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae); it appears to be one of the acorn/nut weevils in the genus Curculio. They use their jaws at the end of their long snout to bore a hole into the acorn or nut that then serves as a food source for their larvae. See http://tinyurl.com/ygreuay for some examples. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2682 This insect was found on Cape Breton Island. Can anyone identify it. It is possible that it may have hitch-hiked on commercially purchased shrubs.

This is another stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), but it may be an exotic as it does not appear to match any of the species commonly encountered in eastern Canada. I would be very grateful if anyone else monitoring this forum could provide a specific identification. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2681 Hi there, I live in Houston, Texas and I just found this creature in my bedroom. Is he anything to worry about or just coming in from the cold weather? Thanks, Liz

This is a stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) that likely was just looking for overwintering shelter. Although it superficially resembles an introduced species, the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys; see http://tinyurl.com/44kr59 for an image), to the best of my knowledge, that species has not been reported from Texas. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2680 Found in bathroom. Northwest Ohio. About 1/8 1nch. Lots of them. Thanks for your help! Mike

This is a distant cousin of spiders, ticks, etc. known as a pseudoscorpion. They are general predators on other small arthropods, and are completely harmless to humans. See nos. 2663 and 2581 for other examples and http://tinyurl.com/36vv3q for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2679 I have a new bug in my house I wanted to post to see if someone could identify it. It is only in my family room for the last 10 days. I did bring in year old seasoned firewood 3 weeks ago to the room. Also renovation work in our attic began 3 weeks ago. The bug flies but is easy to swat. It is attracted to light somewhat and will sit on the wall or furniture and be easily caught. After reading some others submissions I thought it might be a wood beadle so I just burnt all the firewood tonight. I am in the western suburbs of Chicago.
The image isn’t clear enough for a definitive identification, but it does not appear to be any species considered a serious pest, and it certainly is not one that would cause structural damage. In addition to several wood-boring beetles in the family Cerambycidae having this general appearance (see http://tinyurl.com/ydyulj8, http://tinyurl.com/yc6ojq5, and http://tinyurl.com/y9lhcgh for examples), there also are some so-called ‘false blister beetles’ in the family Oedemeridae with at least a superficial resemblance - see http://tinyurl.com/yzht4uq for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2678 Just got home from a trip to Mexico in the Yucatán peninsula area. A friend found this bug on the wall and picked it with his towel to show all of us. I do know it can fly that’s how it got up in the tree it’s about the length of a man’s index finger I tried to get a picture of his mouth but didn’t want to get to close to it. The waitress saw us looking she said she has never seen one like that before. Thanks for any info. This beautiful beetle is known as a harlequin beetle (Acrocinus longimanus; Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); the males have their front legs greatly elongated (see http://tinyurl.com/ybpnupq) and their larvae bore in wood. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2677 Recently my husband and I have been encountering several of these bugs in our living room over the past week or so. In our living room, we have recently started running a humidifier, and I have found a few crawling on the walls nearby. They look like a strawberry root weevil to me, but I cannot be 100% positive. Sincerely, Sarah
This is a broad-nosed/short-snouted weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae). Rather than a strawberry root weevil, it looks more like a black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) - see no. 2667 for an example. Both species readily enter buildings in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2676 These guys appeared in our kitchen cabinet, the one with flour, cereals and pasta. Approx 1/8 inch in length, brownish-amber in appearance. They don't seem to be coming in great numbers, but nevertheless we don't like the idea of sharing our food with them.
This is a grain beetle in the genus Oryzaephilus (Coleoptera: Silvanidae); either the saw-toothed (O. surinamensis) or the merchant (O. mercator) grain beetle. These can be pantry pests, feeding on a wide variety of grain-based products; see http://tinyurl.com/yl2hx6l for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2675 Hi there. Whilst in my loft today in Hornchurch, Essex UK, I noticed this, which wasn’t there a few months ago! I know it’s not a bug per se, but could someone tell me if this is bug/insect related? Many thanks. Charlie
This is a nest of a wasp in the family Vespidae, such as the common wasp, Vespula vulgaris. Nests of this species can achieve quite remarkable dimensions - see http://tinyurl.com/y8kptpy for an example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2674 Hello, I have found this bug in my kitchen a number of times. It is about 1-2 mm in length. I found them underneath paper covered chop sticks, in my cook book, in a box of bakers chocolate, and in my baking cupboard. The move fairly fast for such a little bug. So If any one could let me know what they are and how to get rid of them I would appreciate it. Thank you, Cindy
This appears to be a booklouse (Psocodea: Liposcelidae); they feed primarily on mold spores and the like, and seldom do any real harm. They require moisture and high humidity in order to survive for very long, so keeping your premises as dry as practical will go a long way towards controlling them. You might also inspect your pantry for any items that may have become moldy, as this would be an attractant to them. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2673 I found these bugs crawling around the base of my bathtub and all over the bathmat. They are TINY and the only reason I saw them was because there were so many crawling on my white rug (maybe 100 or so). We are in NE Ohio and totally snowed in. We have kids and I want to know if these are going to be a problem vs. a nuisance. We don't have pets, but our bathroom can get very damp (kids splashing in the tub that isn't sealed well). These weren't there yesterday and now suddenly there are 100 of these miniscule little pests. Any thoughts? Thanks! LB .
These appear to be fungus gnats (Diptera: Sciaridae); they primarily are nuisance pests, but their larvae (maggots) can cause damage to the roots and lower stems of tender plants. They usually are associated with wet soil high in organic content, so one of the better control strategies is to allow house plants to dry out as much as practical between waterings. See http://tinyurl.com/m4qc5 for additional information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2672 Hi - I realize this is an ant, but I'm looking for help determining if I have Carpenter Ants, or just some random variety that doesn't eat your house. They are in my bathroom on the second floor. Since I live in eastern Ontario, and it's February, these are not coming in from outdoors, so they have to be finding something to build their nests out of in my house... I have a bad feeling that they are carpenters but am hoping for confirmation. Is this pic good enough to give you an idea? The ant is medium sized, just over a cm or so. Thanks for any help you can give.
Although one diagnostic character ( a circlet of golden hairs around the tip of the abdomen) cannot be seen, the overall habitus of this ant otherwise is consistent with it being a carpenter ant; note the smooth front to back curve of the dorsal surface of the thorax. See http://tinyurl.com/dsx2t for detailed information on this pest. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2671 Hi, We live in Langley, B.C. These pesky critters appear to come from just outside our overhead garage door opening and find their way inside. They disappear each fall but have now returned again in Ernest. We sweep out (and squash) around 100 of these pests per day that have come inside to about a foot from the garage door during the summer months. We have tried spreading the following around the inside/outside of the door but to no avail: Dr. Doom, Raid, Bleach, Boiling water and Insectigone. Can you help us please?
These are millipedes; for the most part, these are harmless detrivores/scavengers ( a few species, such as the garden millipede, sometimes can damage tender vegetation), but in some instances, such as in your case, they can be nuisance pests. Your best bet at managing these is to keep your home and surroundings as dry as practical, as these arthropods require abundant moisture/high humidity to persist in any environment. See http://tinyurl.com/yhxchs2 for additional management suggestions. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2670 My girlfriend and I recently moved from Massachusetts to North Carolina. When we moved into our new abode, I placed a couple of towels in the bathroom cupboard. Tonight when I pulled out a fresh towel I noticed a dark blob that quickly disappeared into the fold of the towel as I pulled it out, I gave it a quick shake not quite sure what it was, when nothing fell I out, I held the towel out and turned it around and found this guy staring back up at me. After looking at a couple of the photo's on your website, I believe it is a fishing spider (judging from the coloration). He definitely was on the large side, I'd estimate between 4 inches across from leg-tip to leg-tip. I was just hoping that you could give me a definitive identification. Thanks, Chuck
This is indeed a fishing/dock spider (family Pisauridae) in the genus Dolomedes; most likely the dark fishing spider, Dolomedes tenebrosus - see http://tinyurl.com/y9voahh for images and more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2669 My cat found this crawling across the basement floor, here in Pittsburgh, PA, in February. I was thinking maybe it's some type of crane fly, but the legs seem too thick.
This is not a crane fly, but a wasp in the family Ichneumonidae; these all are parasitic on other arthropods, primarily insects. A few species have a stout, sharp ovipositor that can pierce human skin if they are picked up carelessly, but they lack venom, and are completely harmless to humans. This is a very large family with thousands of species - see http://tinyurl.com/yckcxkk for a small sampling. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2668 This is a picture of a robber fly that I need identified. I believe that it is of the genus "Efferia".
Although this robber fly (Diptera: Asilidae) does indeed resemble an Efferia sp., I would hesitate to confirm that, as there are species in other genera with quite a similar appearance - see http://tinyurl.com/l8x3ho for some examples. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2667 Hello, This is the fourth incident of this type of beetle being observed in our house. Time of Year Observed: January & February. Area’s in house beetle observed on the kitchen floor, floor near the basement, floor in furnace room and climbing wall on main floor. Thank you in advance for identifying the type of beetle and providing information on threat, risk and extermination steps. Regards, Brian -Georgetown, Ontario, Canada.
This is a broad-nosed/short-snouted weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae). It appears to be a black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) - see http://tinyurl.com/yl9h4v3 for an image. These beetles often come indoors in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2666 We have found this spider in our garden we live in Kelowna.
This is a funnel web spider (family Agelenidae) in the genus Tegenaria - see http://tinyurl.com/dh6ze2 for an example. There are at least three species in this genus reported from British Colombia; large specimens are capable of inflicting a painful bite if mishandled. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2665 Greetings; the photo in my father's garage near Hastings, Ontario today. Apparently, it has been there at least since last year - Dad thought it was a coat stuffed up there (he can't see very well). There were no signs of activity and nothing identifiable on the shelf below it. That green container is a 6-7 in diameter pot from a nursery. Lots of paper wasp hives but nothing like this. Any idea as to who might live in it? No one noticed any extra bees or wasps around last Summer. Looking forward to anything you can offer. Best regards, Dennis
Although the location and surface sculpturing appear a bit unusual, this looks more like a paper nest made by wasps in the family Vespidae. See http://tinyurl.com/yfm3sc4 for a more typical example. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

I recognize the pattern of the wasps nest.. not sure which species. It is not now active, so best to take it down. you might find some pre-emergent adults in the cells that died when the colony broke up. I would guess bald faced hornet, but only a guess. but I have seen the pattern of the paper before. interesting.. Sam Bryks M.Sc. B.C.E. Member A.I.H.A.

2664 Hi, I came across your web site while trying to identify two bugs I photographed in the cloud forest of Costa Rica. One was on the wall of my room and the other was in the garden beside the hotel. I’ve found a number of Costa Rican insect and beetle sites but none seem to have photos of anything quite like my creatures. I know Costa Rica is a long way from Canada and I can’t be sure that either of these is actually a pest but I’d be interested to know if anyone to do with your site can help me to put names on them. Thanks, Robert
This is a tiger beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae; subfamily Cicindelinae); specifically it looks very much like Pseudoxycheila tarsalis - see http://tinyurl.com/ygo5vzm for an image. This species reportedly is fairly widespread in Central America; they are voracious predators on other small arthropods. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2663 Hello, I found this bug (spider) in our bathroom mostly and one in our bedroom. I don't see them often but I find them interesting and would like to know what kind of bug it is. Thanks so much.
This tiny arachnid is a distant cousin of spiders known as a pseudoscorpion. They are general predators on other small arthropods, and are completely harmless to humans. See no. 2581 for another example and http://tinyurl.com/36vv3q for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2662 Good Morning, I live in Maryland, the mid-Atlantic region. The insect was very abundant over this past summer and seemed to be most prevalent around a garden shed on the side of my home. Very few were found in my house during the warmer weather, when winter set in I seemed to find these insects flying around in my home. It seems they are becoming more lethargic. I am hopeful to learn what they are so I can research them. It would be helpful to know if they are damaging my home, where they are coming from, and how they are managing to get into my home. Thank you for allowing me to make this inquiry. Sincerely, Charles
This appears to be the same as no. 2660, namely a brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). See http://tinyurl.com/44kr59 for a University of Maryland fact sheet that includes management recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2661 This summer, this nest was in a young locust tree in my front yard in Glenwood, Utah and was about 6 ft. off the ground. It is about one foot in height. We have plenty of yellow jackets, honey bees, and mud daubers around, but these I could not identify. Can you help?
These appear to be bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata; Hymenoptera: Vespidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/yzhx3dy for an image. In spite of the name, these are not true hornets. They will defend their nest vigorously; approach with extreme caution! Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

Looks like a Bald Faced Hornet nest. the wasps have the typical dark body, but image too small to see the stripes at the back of the abdomen.. Though they are called "hornets", they are actually a type of wasp.. they do not typically overwinter, new queens disperse and hibernate over winter and the colony is ended though I have heard of some colonies indoor becoming repopulated. Not too many experts on these around to comment more authoritatively. Sam Bryks M.Sc. B.C.E. Member A.I.H.A.

2660 I live in New Jersey. In the past 2 weeks, I have killed 3 of these bugs in my room. For some reason they are only found in my room. At first, I thought maybe I left something rotting under my bed but tonight I realized that I only see them flying about at night. Since I am the only one in the house with the lights on at night, I figured they must be attracted to light and coming from somewhere else in the house. Please help! I need to get rid of them and my family does not need to be hearing anymore shrieks from me! Thanks!
This appears to be a brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys; Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). This is an introduced Asian species that has become well-established in northeastern North America. They often come indoors in search of overwintering shelter, but do no harm there. See http://tinyurl.com/3bm2h7 for more information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2659 No pets, newer apartment building, found on carpet areas, tile areas.

This is a bristletail, a primitive insect in the order Thysanura; it appears to be one known as a firebrat (Thermobia domestica), see http://tinyurl.com/yzyt9kb for an image. They primarily are nuisance pests, but sometimes can damage starchy materials, including cereals, bookbindings and wallpaper paste. See http://tinyurl.com/lsuugn for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2658 Hi there, I just found these crawling on my clothes in my closet. It is a spot where my cat likes to sleep. They are clothes which are not worn very frequently -summer clothes, etc We just recently went through/finishing a bout with head lice. There was a geriatric couple that lived in this house before us, we moved in in September of last year. We vacuum daily. My concerns are - Is it a moth larvae of some sort? If so, do I need to get rid of my clothes? Could they have laid eggs? I have two small children? Is this some sort of poisonous thing or does it pose any other health risks? They are very fast crawlers and appear to be reflective with some gold and brown , and red coloring. I live in Oakville, ON Please help, Thanks Rob

This is a larva of yet another beetle in the family Dermestidae, it appears to be in the genus Attagenus, that includes the black carpet beetle and relatives. See http://tinyurl.com/ycudsrr for a fact sheet with control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2657 I killed this spider last night. There are a few of them in our RV . We are currently in Clewiston, Fl. Although there is no "violin" visible, I am concerned that this may be some kind of recluse. Annabel

I’m not sure what this is, except that it most definitely is not a recluse spider of any kind. I first thought that it might be a male southern house spider, Kukulcania hibernalis (family Filistatidae), but the elongated pedipalps typical of he species (see http://tinyurl.com/yzrsdyy for an example) cannot be seen in this image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2656 I found this little critter near my bathroom sink in my home in Salt Lake City, Utah. I’ve never seen a bug so hairy as this one. The strong light I needed to get these pictures have washed out just how hairy he is. I am just wondering what kind of bug it is. Any help would be appreciated, Kenneth.

Number 2656 - This is a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae (hide/skin/larder/carpet beetles); possibly an Anthrenus sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/ye4gqry for an example. See http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2655 Hi, we found this worm in our bath. The worm itself was about 1/2 inch long. I've found a picture of a mealworm which has the same shape with the head, 6 fore-legs and then a long tail-like body, but the mealworm information doesn't sound correct - whereas the mealworm is described as 30mm long with a hard-shell body, our little bug was half the size, a lot thinner and looked a lot softer-bodied. My first thought was that one of our children should be taken to the Doctors! Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Stuart

This is a larva of a beetle that appears to be in the same family as mealworms (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/ylfbpsk for an example. It poses no health threat to your family. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2654 Hello folks, I found this bug in a very odd place - on the top of a smaller mountain (1230 meters) a few days ago in the middle of winter, here in Northern Italy. There was 3 feet of snow and it was around 0 degrees Fahrenheit. There were some pine shrubs (dwarf mugo pine) nearby but no other flora. He was walking across the snow like he had a purpose and I thought he might be a type of pine bark beetle but he doesn't look like any of the photos I have seen. He had 6 legs, a very thin body, and a long tapering head and tail, and it did not appear that he could fly. Hope my photos came out well enough to see him. Thanks, Noel

There are quite a few insects having self-manufactured ‘antifreeze’ that are capable of moving about at quite chilly temperatures. The image isn’t clear enough for me to be absolutely certain, but I suspect that this is a female wingless crane fly (Diptera: Tipulidae) in the genus Chionea - see http://tinyurl.com/ycv7g8e for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2653 Hi, I found this in my bedroom and I live in Richmond, BC. Hope you can identify it. Jeff

This is a carpet beetle (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) in the genus Anthrenus. It may be a varied carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci - see http://tinyurl.com/ylzjmua for an image. The larvae of these beetles (see http://tinyurl.com/daun2s for an image) will feed on a wide variety of organic materials, primarily those of animal origin. The adult beetles themselves do no damage, being pollen feeders. See http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2652 After having moved into a newly built house in the summer, we have been finding these bugs, usually found along the baseboard in carpeted rooms. We saw them in greater frequency during the summer months but less in the winter months. They appear to have a brown back with a lighter underside. They appear to have many legs like a caterpillar too. We find them coiled up but they appear to be about 8-12mm in length. We vacuum frequently (no less than once a week). We live in Edmonton, Alberta where the climate is relatively dry. Any ideas on what they might be and how to get rid of them? Thanks for your help! KM

This is a millipede (class Myriapoda), it belongs to the order Polydesmida, known as flat-backed millipedes. Most of these are harmless nuisance pests, feeding primarily on decomposing organic matter; a few can be garden/greenhouse pests, feeding on tender vegetation. They all require abundant moisture/high humidity in order to thrive, so moisture control is the first line of dense against them. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2651 A friend found this. she's in Vancouver, BC. It looks like a long horn but I can't tell what kind.. Joel

This is not a beetle, but a leaf-footed bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae); likely a western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis, a species that often is found indoors. There are many similar examples on this site, starting with no. 2647. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2650 I have discovered this bug (approx.1/3 of a mm in length), in a couple of my kitchen drawers, 6 in a downstairs bathroom sink and 1 in my bed. Upon a thorough inspection of my pantry and dog/ cat food cupboard, I didn't see a trace of this little critter. We live on a ranch in central Alberta. I want to annihilate this bug before I have a big problem on my hands. Please help! Thanks in advance.

It is difficult to be certain from this view, but assuming that you meant 1/3 cm instead of 1/3 mm, this could a flour beetle (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae; Tribolium sp.) - see http://tinyurl.com/yb9625n for an example. See http://tinyurl.com/6qmzkm for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations for these and other pantry pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2649 Hi, found this and his brethren on the underside of basil bush leaves, in Montevideo, Uruguay. They are about 6-7 mm long. Can you help identifying it? Best regards, Santiago.

This is a nymph of a stink bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Pentatomidae). Most of these are general plant feeders (some can be serious pests), but quite a few others are predaceous on other arthropods, and can be quite beneficial. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2648 Hi, it was a little warmer than usual last week in Moncton, NB, Canada (east coast), and the last few days I've been seeing these bugs in my bathtub. What are they, where could they come from, and how do I get rid of them? Thank you, Amber

This appears to be a winged ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). On the possibility that these could be carpenter ants (Camponotus sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/ybykefb for an example), you might carefully inspect the area of your house above the bathtub area for signs of more of these or damaged wood. If you find any such, see http://tinyurl.com/yglo8vs for control/prevention recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2647 We have found this bug in our house, in the sink, on the bed, on the floor and we do not know how it is getting in the house or what it is. We live in Chilliwack BC

This appears to be a western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae). They frequently wander indoors in search of overwintering shelter, but do no harm there. If you scroll down through this site, you will find several other similar examples, starting with no. 2639. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2646 This was found on a bed pillow in Central Ontario. It appeared to be just a piece of fuzz until it was seen moving. It wriggles slowly and appeared to have an extending red head on both ends, although only one was visible at a time.

This is a case-bearing larva of a moth in the family Tineidae (clothes moths and relatives). It could be either a casemaking cloths moth (Tinea pellionella - see http://tinyurl.com/ycuudor for an example) or a more innocuous household casebearer (Phereoeca sp. - see http://tinyurl.com/yhykqog for an example). You should examine all materials susceptible to clothes moth attack, such as woollen and silk fabrics, feathers, and furs, for signs of these insects or chewing damage. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2645 Hi, I am writing from London, England. I have an exoterra tank with fish at the bottom and anoles above. We have recently noticed a large fast insect in the tank which I think is a cockroach (not sure what type). We don't have cockroaches in our home so I assume this has come in with micro-crickets or fruit flies which I have used to feed the anole babies which have recently hatched. If the roach had been this size when it entered the tank we would probably have seen it so I am hoping it is a singleton which has grown. Is it possible to tell if it is male or female and if female how likely it would be to reproduce. Thanks, Frank

This is not a cockroach, but appears to be a female cricket (Orthoptera: Gryllidae). It likely is an exotic, as it does not appear to be any species native to the UK (see http://tinyurl.com/yb73bog). You might try checking with the supplier where you procure insect food for your anoles to see if it might have come from there. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2644 Hi, Found this impressive wasp on a hiking trail in a south western Ohio park in August - dead, unfortunately. Could someone identify it, please? Thanks, Diana.

This appears to be Sphecius speciosus (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae), known as the eastern cicada-killer. They are not aggressive and you really have to provoke one in order to get stung. See http://tinyurl.com/ylnyxlu for details on the life history of these fascinating insects. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2643 I live in Chattanooga, TN. Found this spider in my basement. It looks like a few different spiders I have found on the internet. Hope someone can identify

This most likely is a wolf spider (family Lycosidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/y9s4wk3 for some exxamples. These are active hunters that sometimes enter buildings (especially basements) in search of prey. Large specimens can deliver a painful bite if mishandled, but they are not dangerous to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2642 To Whom it May Concern, I found this one in the house, what is his/her ancestry? Around the Michigan area is where I live. Hope you can tell what kind it is. John
This is an orb-weaving spider (family Araneidae) in the genus Araneus. It might be either Araneus diadematus or Araneus trifolium, both very common and widespread species - see http://tinyurl.com/yjwa5m8 and http://tinyurl.com/yd2zguh, respectively, for examples. These spiders can show considerable individual variation in color pattern, which can make field identification problematic. All orb weavers are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2641 Hi I am actually in the city of Tbilisi, Rep of Georgia and we find these spiders often. I think it is in the widow family, but I wonder if you can tell us more, and if they are dangerous.

This spider is in the same family (Theridiidae) as widow spiders (Latrodectus sp.); it appears to be Steatoda paykulliana, often called the false black widow. It can deliver a painful bite, but is not as dangerous as its infamous relatives - see http://tinyurl.com/y9c3xog for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2640 Thanks for the assistance! This small critter is less than 1 cm long and is the longest of any others I have seen. I am in Virginia Beach, Virginia. I find about one or two of these bugs per day on my kitchen or bathroom floor. They make a half-hearted race for the baseboard when I catch them. They are slow movers. I suspect they are coming from the floor heating ducts but have not been able to prove it. Any idea what it is?

This is an earwig (order Dermaptera). For the most part, they are nuisance pests (and my wife’s least favorite insect), but they may occasionally damage tender vegetation. They are extremely common outdoors wherever there is damp shelter (such as under logs, rocks, garden debris, etc.), and readily enter buildings. See http://tinyurl.com/yz5d8os for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2639 Hello, Can you help me identify this bug? I was giving my son a bath and I noticed it in the water, flapping it's wings around. I do not know where it came from as I did not see it flying! I'm not sure if it came out of the drain, but my son was in the bath for a good 15 minutes before either of us noticed it. I do know that he pulled a hand towel into the water from a wooden basket that sits next to the bathtub shortly before we noticed the bug, so it may have come from in there. I keep a very clean house. I wanted to know if it is harmful to my children, and if it is harmful to my house structure. We live on Long Island in New York. My house sits on the edge of a 2000 acre pine tree preserve. Thank you so much Jennifer.

This bug did not come out of any drain, it more likely just wandered in from the cold weather outside. It is a leaf-footed bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae); likely a western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis - see nos. 2567 and 2543 for other examples. They do no harm indoors, but can be nuisance pests if they occur in any numbers. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2638 Hi, I am from Ontario, Canada, about 2 hours north of Toronto. I have been finding these bugs lately in my home. They look like picture # 2513. Could I have got these from the grocery store? I need help to get rid of. Can you help me ? Thank you, Suzanne W.

This indeed most likely is a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae (carpet/skin beetles) in the genus Anthrenus, such as that shown at no. 2628. These pests can enter a home by a variety of means, including ‘hitchhiking’ in infested stored food products. However, the adult beetles are very good fliers, and easily can gain entry that way. They are pollen feeders, so if there are flowering plants, particularly shrubs like spiraea, immediately adjacent to your home, that could be the source as well. These insects can be quite slow growers, so the larvae you find now may have been present for several months. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2637 I was wondering if you could help identify the pest that I have recently found crawling on my shower room ceiling. I have attached a mug shot of the little criminal. I have had a look through your pest gallery (which I must say is fantastic and horrifying at the same time) and I think that I have identified the little visitors as psocids. This would also tie in with the fact that I currently have a mould/moisture problem on the ceiling and in the attic area above the room as well. But I am not 100% sure and would really like an expert opinion. I have attached two pics one for scale and hopefully one that will be clear enough to identify. I live in the central area of Scotland. Many thanks in advance. Kind regards Kenny

This does appear to be a psocid of the type commonly called ‘booklice.’ These insects formerly were in the order Psocoptera, but recent phylogenetic studies have resulted in them being placed with true lice in the order Psocodea (see http://tinyurl.com/ycnq6bz). If you require assistance in control, see http://tinyurl.com/yf9uvlm Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2636 Found in cupboard - in oatmeal box- Have pellet stove and not sure if they may have come in with pellets. Hope you can help identify and suggest how to deal with them.

This is an Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), very common pest whose larvae feed on a very wide variety of dry stored food products. See http://tinyurl.com/ydcqqnd for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2635 Could you identify this spider for me? I found it in a bedroom in our Mississauga house. The spider is over 1 cm in length when its’ legs are spread out. It also bunches its legs tight over its body in a defensive-looking posture. I am especially curious because I have what looks like a bite on my leg that appeared 2 days before I found this spider. The “bite” had a small white centre surrounded by a bright red swelling 4 cm in radius around the centre. Any help would be appreciated. Catherine in Mississauga

This appears to be a small comb-footed spider (family Theridiidae). Although this is the same family to which the well-known widow spiders belong, ones such as this specimen are harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2634 I found this bug in my driveway a few days ago. I live in Maryland, and I'm just wondering whether or not the beetle is harmful to small dogs.

This is a ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae); it is a general predator on other small arthropods, and poses no danger to pets or humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2633 I've found several of these critters inside my home in northern California over the last two years. It's always a single bug, dead, usually found under a rug or something. They're not a nuisance but kinda big and gross and I had never seen such a thing before so just curious!

This is a relative of grasshoppers and crickets commonly known as a Jerusalem cricket (Stenopelmatus sp.; Orthoptera: Stenopelmatidae). See http://tinyurl.com/mnotmt for more detailed information. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2632 These are tiny and black. It seems that they jump around. Showed up very quickly around the flower outside the edge of the flower bed (bark mulch). Seems like millions of them. What are they? Thx
These are springtails, primitive arthropods in the order Collembola; ones such as these are harmless scavengers on decomposing organic matter. Under the right conditions, they can occur in astronomical numbers, and can on occasion become nuisance pests in or around homes. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2631 What is this bug and how do we get rid of it? first spotted outdoors around when it started getting cold, not sure if they were around in summer or just did not see them. appeared to be more active in heat. now they are in the house. We find one or two flying and landing everyday. They are about the size of a nickel or quarter.
This a leaf-footed bug (Hemiptera/Heteroptera: Coreidae); likely a western conifer seed bug, Leptoglossus occidentalis; a species that often comes indoors as weather cools in the autumn. See nos. 2567 and 2543 for other examples. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2630 Started seeing these bugs on the kitchen and family room ceiling. Can you tell me what they are and how to remove them. Seem to only come out at night.

This is a broad-nosed/short-snouted weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae), such as the black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) - see http://tinyurl.com/yl9h4v3 for an image. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2629 -elongated oval shape, banded body is sort of off-white or yellowish and black, legs appear to be at front - not sure how many - lots of hair sticking out along the body, off-white underbelly

This appears to be a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae (larder, skin, hide, and carpet beetles). It could be in the genus Anthrenus; see http://tinyurl.com/a76p4k for an example. The larvae of these insects will feed on a wide variety of organic materials, primarily those containing animal protein - if you have carpeting that includes wool fibers, you may want to check around the edges for signs of chewing damage. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2628 Hello, I found these bugs (2 to 3 mm) crawling on the bedroom wall in San Francisco, CA. When I squashed them, they seem to be filled with blood. Ugh! What the heck are they? Thanks Andrew

This is a bed bug (Cimex sp.), but the image is not clear enough to tell whether it is a human bed bug (Cimex lectularius) or a closely related bat bug, Cimex adjunctus (see http://tinyurl.com/y92azgu). See http://tinyurl.com/5l5y95 for a very comprehensive fact sheet on bed bug biology and control. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2627 This is a great web page with a lot of information about pests. Hope you can help me identifying this insect. This bug ran out from under our bath mat which is stored draped over the edge of the bath tub between showers, it can run quite fast but does not appear to have wings. It is the only one I have found so far, we have lived in this house in Regina Saskatchewan for 5 years. I have looked through most of your photos and can't say I seen it. Thanks in advance.

This is a cockroach nymph; although it bears some resemblance to that of the peridomestic species Periplaneta australasiae (see http://tinyurl.com/y88o2jo), these usually are much larger than your specimen. It also could be a wood cockroach (Parcoblatta sp. - see the left image at http://tinyurl.com/yhj87w2), but I have not seen one of those with the colour pattern of yours. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2626 Hi, I have found this bug on my hotel bed and also found several under with larvae also present. I will really appreciate your help identifying this bug? It approx. 6-7 mm long. It has been found in Croatia, Europe. Doesn't look like bed bug at least when i compared pics on the web. Thanks a lot, Dejan, Ottawa, Canada

This is a larva of a beetle in the family Dermestidae (carpet/skin/hide beetles); likely in the genus Anthrenus. See http://tinyurl.com/yey56z5 for an image and http://tinyurl.com/yun78p for a fact sheet with detailed control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2625 Hello, A roommate who was here for a month or two brought these pests with him. I spotted them originally where this roommate had his stuff, but they are only around the kitchen area now. The body of the one in the photos is about 5/8ths of an inch long, it's one of the bigger ones that I've seen. I have seen some smaller ones. Please tell me what they are and how I can get rid of them. Thanks, Brent

This is a cockroach; it may be a German cockroach (Blattella germanica) - see http://tinyurl.com/yakq2xb for a fact sheet that includes images and control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2624 Hello, I found this bug on my kitchen counter of the new apartment building I recently moved in. The building is new and should not have any bugs. I bought some used furniture and worried that the bug came with it. The bug is very small. I looked through the pictures on the site and it does not look to me as a roach, but looks more as hunting mask. If it is a hunting mask, do I worry now about bed bugs? Please help me to identify this bug. Thank you, Elena. San Francisco, California.

This could be a seed bug (superfamily Lygaeoidea); the image is not clear enough for a specific identification. It definitely is not a masked hunter or a bed bug, and will do no harm indoors. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2623 I live in Renton, WA. I found these beetles hibernating in some rotten wood today, while chopping wood. They are about 1/2 an inch long. I don't know if they are a pest but I would like to know their name, preferably the Latin.

These appear to be rugose stag beetles, Sinodendron rugosum (Coleoptera: Lucanidae) - see http://tinyurl.com/yhyowz9 for an image of a male. Sinodendron is the only genus of stag beetle in the USA that has horns. They often are found in rotten logs, and are not pests. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2622 These flies are being found at the rate of one or two per day in Langley BC. They have been around since summer and we are surprised that they are still here during the winter. We don't believe we have an infestation and would like to understand them some more. Hopefully, we can find how they are entering the house and stop them from doing so. They are quite slow and easy to hit.

These are moth flies (Diptera: Psychodidae). Also called sewer flies, filter flies, or drain flies, their larvae feed on decomposing organic matter, including the ‘slime’ that can build up in floor drains. They frequently are nuisance pests indoors, but do no real harm. See http://tinyurl.com/ycj8btm for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2621 Please help. My wife is ready to sell the house. I found about a 12+ of them in the upstairs bedroom and in the bathroom. I live in southeastern, Pennsylvania. They just started popping out when the weather got cold here. They are a small, several millimeters I think. and they are brownish. Thanks, Charlie

This is one of the grain beetles in the genus Oryzaephilus (Coleoptera: Silvanidae); either the saw-toothed or merchant grain beetle. These beetles and their larvae can be pantry pests, feeding on a variety of grain-based products. See http://tinyurl.com/yl2hx6l for a fact sheet that includes control recommendations. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2620 Have found a bunch of these in my house in the last few days... was wondering if you could identify them? Thanks a lot. Chris

These are short-snouted/broad-nosed weevils (Coleoptera: Curculionidae; subfamily Entiminae), such as the black vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus) - see http://tinyurl.com/yjesubv for an image. These weevils often come indoors in search of overwintering shelter. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2619 We live in Surrey BC. Here is a spider I found in the grass in our back yard last summer. Would like to put a name to it. Thanks, David

This is a comb-footed spider (family Theridiidae); it may be Enoplognatha ovata, a highly variable species sometimes called the candy stripe spider- see http://tinyurl.com/yab8qa4 for some examples. Although it belongs to the same family as the widow spiders, it is completely harmless to humans. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV

2618 Hello, I found these black things on my young Pinus Nigra austriacus in late November. They look like eggs of something, they are about less than 1mm long and when I smash it, it is filled with a brown liquid. Almost every needle in the upper third of the tree (1.3m high) has lots of these things attached. What could it be and what can I do against it? Thanks, Karin

These are eggs; likely those of an aphid - see http://tinyurl.com/ykp63js for an image and more information. This is the overwintering stage; they normally would hatch in the springtime. Ed Saugstad. Retired entomologist; Sinks Grove, WV