Insect and Spider Identification  
 
 
  HOME
 · Alderfly/Dobsonfly
 · Bees, Ants, Wasps
 · Beetles
 · Bristletails
 · Butterflies, Moths
 · Centipedes
 · Cicada & Similar
 · Cockroaches
 · Dragonfly/Damselfly
 · Earwigs
 · Flies
 · Grasshopper/Crickets
 · Mayflies
 · Mite or Tick
 · Scorpion and Like
 · Snakeflies
 · SPIDERS
 · True Bugs
 · Walkingsticks
 · View ALL
  ABOUT BUGS
 · Identifying Insects
 · Insect Anatomy
 · Insect Mouth Parts
  SCIENTIFIC
 · Dichotomous Keys
 · Taxonomic Orders
 · Insect Orders
 · Scientific Names
 · Metamorphosis
 · Process of Molting
  MISCELLANEOUS
  · Bees and Wasps
  · Beneficial Insects
  · Field Guides
  · Color the Bugs
  · Spider Identification
North American Insects Listing
 
 

The term 'bug' is often misused to represent all insects. One must remember that bug refers to an insect that can use its mouthparts to only bite or suck. With over 80,000 species categorically identified throughout the world, the term bug can no longer apply to just a general categorization of insects as a whole. With that in mind, insects, like other things in life, can be both harmful and helpful to people. In being helpful, insects can polinate plants or make honey, or even hunt down other pests. In being harmful, insects can infect individuals, destroy crops or assail animals. All in all, the circle of life is a fierce and complicated one, and one can say that there is a lot more going on under the hood than meets the eye. Regardless, insects represent a vital part of our ecosystem and all species should be highly repested for they can do.

Our database features no fewer than 202 insects covering those commonly found in North America, though more precisely throughout the continental United States (we purposely left out insects native to Hawaii and Alaska as those states in themselves are vastly different ecosystems from that found in mainland United States).

The listing below shows insects by their alphabetical "common name".

Picture of a Ailanthus Webworm Moth.

Ailanthus Webworm Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The definitive coloring and stripes on this moth make it unique among Webworm Moths. They tuck and roll their wings close to their bodies when resting, making themselves look more like a beetle. Adults are active in the daytime and can be seen fro... READ MORE

Picture of a American Bumble Bee.

American Bumble Bee
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Similar to Golden Northern Bumblebee (Bombus fervidus) but larger; black coloring just behind the wings; 1 to 3 stripes of yellow appearing on abdominal segments.... READ MORE

Picture of a American Carrion Beetle.

American Carrion Beetle
Category: Beetle
This little beetle has the appearance of a bumble bee at first glance. Adults prefer moist habitats and are active all summer. The carrion beetle earned its name, eating decaying flesh as both larvae and adults. Sometimes adults may be seen ea... READ MORE

Picture of a American Cockroach.

American Cockroach
Category: Cockroach
The American Cockroach is actually not native to the United States, instead transplanted through hundreds of years of shipping cargo and passengers across the oceans. They appear glossy and carry a reddish-brown look throughout. Even their wings are ... READ MORE

Picture of a American House Spider.

American House Spider
Category: Spider
The webs created by Cobweb Spiders are classic Halloween webs: tangled messes in all corners of the attic or windows. It is not uncommon for multiple females to have webs in close proximity to one another. The American House Spider is inconspicuo... READ MORE

Picture of a American Lady Butterfly.

American Lady Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This butterfly prefers sunny, open habitats like fields, canyons and meadows. They migrate south for the winter and return north in the summer, though not in large masses like its cousin, the Painted Lady. Caterpillars eat cudweeds, everlastin... READ MORE

Picture of a American Oil Beetle.

American Oil Beetle
Category: Beetle
American Oil Beetles feature a stout abdomen with a shell covering that appears as though a series of overlapping plates. Antenna are visible on the head. The insect can appear as a dull black or in some cases a shiney black or dark blue. These parti... READ MORE

Picture of a American Pelecinid Wasp.

American Pelecinid Wasp
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
The long abdomen ('tail') of the female invokes trepidation among humans. It is acutually used to deposit eggs onto the backs of grubs living underground. The larvae then eat the grub once hatched. The male has a shorter abdomen with a swollen t... READ MORE

Picture of a Arrowhead Orb Weaver.

Arrowhead Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The triangular abdomen of this spider helped name it. The color pattern is the same within a population. This spider creates webs in shaded areas of a forest and sits on it with its head up while most other spiders keep their heads down. The le... READ MORE

Picture of a Arrow-shaped Micrathena Spider.

Arrow-shaped Micrathena Spider
Category: Spider
The spiney ridges on females are believed to ward off predators, though some believe it adds to concealment in the web. She will lay eggs on the edge of her web, usually on a leaf, in autumn and then die. Males do not have spines and are mostly bl... READ MORE

Picture of a Bald-Faced Hornet.

Bald-Faced Hornet
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Blad-faced Hornets are related to yellow jackets but are not "true" hornets themselves. This species features a rather stout body and are colored in white and black from head, thorax and abdomen. The abdomen is finished off by a band of white. Males ... READ MORE

Picture of a Banded Alder Borer Beetle.

Banded Alder Borer Beetle
Category: Beetle
Adult beetles are attracted to the smell of paint. The black and white pattern is distinct. Adults are active in the day and can be found in large numbers. Larvae bore into dead tree trunks and not just alder. Oak, willow, ash and maple are al... READ MORE

Picture of a Banded Garden Spider.

Banded Garden Spider
Category: Spider
This spider builds its web between plants in garden beds. It sits in the center, head down, waiting for prey to ensnare itself in the web. Females can deliver a moderately painful bite if guarding eggs and disturbed.... READ MORE

Picture of a Basilica Orb Weaver.

Basilica Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The colors, pattern and shape of the abdomen make this spider stand out. Their webs are horizontal and dome-shaped. The weaving in the dome is smal and mesh-like as opposed to open and circular. Dangling threads aid in creating a knockdown tra... READ MORE

Picture of a Bed Bug.

Bed Bug
Category: True Bug
The body is flat, rusty red color - sometimes purple or even brown (red after feeding). Sizes range from 4mm to 6mm. Antennae are present and appear quite slender and segmented. Short stubby legs compliment the short - almost unseen - stubby wings. B... READ MORE

Picture of a Black- and-Yellow Garden Spider.

Black- and-Yellow Garden Spider
Category: Spider
Yellow Garden Spiders are from the Argiope genus and a local throughout the United States of America. Commonly found throughout garden areas and woodlands, the spider is easily identifiable by the distinctive yellow and black coloring found on the ab... READ MORE

Picture of a Black Blister Beetle.

Black Blister Beetle
Category: Beetle
Three-segmented body made up of mostly black with reddish-brown legs. Head is slightly larger than second segment with third segment becoming the longest of the three. Antennae are relatively short and ridged. Wings folded back appear as almost part ... READ MORE

Picture of a Black Carpenter Ant.

Black Carpenter Ant
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Black Carpenter Ants are relatively large. Known mostly by color, this type of ant also has 1 segement to its waist and a long abdomen containing lightly-colored dull hairs. Though their name suggests otherwise, Carpenter ants do not eat wood and... READ MORE

Picture of a Black Saddlebags Skimmer.

Black Saddlebags Skimmer
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
Adults can be found near lakes, ponds and streams. Males alternate between gliding and flapping wings when in flight. Adults may swarm (with other dragonfly species as well) to attack insect prey. They migrate in the fall. Juveniles can appear ... READ MORE

Picture of a Black Swallowtail.

Black Swallowtail
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The black swallowtail mimics the Pipevine Swallowtail on the female with her banding spots. Most of the desert populations are yellow, while other populations are more black. They can be found in gardens, meadows, forests and other habitats. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Black Vine Weevil.

Black Vine Weevil
Category: Beetle
This weevil is aknown pest to many plants and usually feeds at night.... READ MORE

Picture of a Black-Legged Tick.

Black-Legged Tick
Category: Mite or Tick
Black-Legged Ticks are a primary carrier of Lyme disease through mice and deer in the Eastern United States. Males appear as a dark brown or even black coloring while females feature orange coloring. Their size dictates how much they have eaten as th... READ MORE

Picture of a Blue Dasher.

Blue Dasher
Category: No Category
Blue Dashers can be found near slow moving water sources. Adults have four wings with two noticeable dark streaks in them. They have a striking blue color ending in a black tip on the abdomen. Their heads contain their large eyes which take on a meta... READ MORE

Picture of a Blue-Eyed Darner.

Blue-Eyed Darner
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
Highly noticeable thanks to their large size and have a beautiful blue and black coloring. Males exhibit some silver on their bodies. Both sexes can measure upwards of 2" with wingspans of around 4". Wings are transparent.... READ MORE

Picture of a Boll Weevil.

Boll Weevil
Category: Beetle
Long the bane of cotton farmers, the Boll Weevil as a pest has since come under control to an extent. They have extremely round bodies and appear as a brown or gray with short hairs covering the thorax and abdomen. Weevils in general can be identifie... READ MORE

Picture of a Bowl and Doily Weaver Spider.

Bowl and Doily Weaver Spider
Category: Spider
The distinct shape of the web created by this species aids in identifying it. The 'bowl' shaped part of the web sits on top of the flat part (doily). The spider sits beneath the 'bowl' for prey to enter. Bowl and Doily Weavers can be found in wo... READ MORE

Picture of a Boxelder Bug.

Boxelder Bug
Category: True Bug
Boxelder Bugs commonly congregate alongside homes or trees near a female Boxelder and in full view of the sun. They are identifiable by the distinct black and red coloring on their bodies (the red appearing as stripes against the black). Boxelder bug... READ MORE

Picture of a Brown Mantidfly.

Brown Mantidfly
Category: Net-Veined Winged Bug
At first glance, Brown Mantidflies can be mistaken for a wasp. Brown Mantidflies have a long prothorax with mantid-like forelegs containing a single claw for capturing prey. The female differs in by having an upturned orvipositor. In some ways, the B... READ MORE

Picture of a Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Category: True Bug
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug is a pest to a large variety of fruit-bearing trees and plants, leaving circular damaged areas on leaves. Originally from Asia, the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug made its way to North America and has been a pest ever since... READ MORE

Picture of a Brown Recluse / Violin Spider.

Brown Recluse / Violin Spider
Category: Spider
Violin Spiders - more commonly known as the Brown Recluse Spider - are generally found to the southern states and west to California. These spiders inhabit loose piles of debris or - if indoors - in furniture and folded clothing. Identifying features... READ MORE

Picture of a Buffalo Treehopper.

Buffalo Treehopper
Category: Cicada and Similar
Easily recognizeable by its greenish-yellow color and its humpback-like appearance. They namesake comes from the fact that they very much resemble buffalo by the horn-like projections on either side of their pronotum. Buffalo Treehoppers feed on the ... READ MORE

Picture of a Cabbage White Butterfly.

Cabbage White Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The white wings of this species have charcoal gray tips and 1 (male) or 2 (female) black spots in the center of each forewing. Underwings may be yellow or light green. The green caterpillar eats cabbage and other plants related to mustard.... READ MORE

Picture of a California Timema.

California Timema
Category: Walkingstick or Timema
Appear an overall green or brown in color with hints of white or pink. They have a rough-looking bumpy exterior and a short stout body. The smaller male will usually ride on the back of the larger female for most of their adult lives. California Time... READ MORE

Picture of a California Trapdoor Spider.

California Trapdoor Spider
Category: Spider
California Trapdoor Spiders are native to Southern California. In many ways, they resemble smaller versions of tarantulas with shiney bodies. Their chelicerae have spines on them helping this species to dig their burrows. Their burrows serve as both ... READ MORE

Picture of a Candy-striped Leafhopper.

Candy-striped Leafhopper
Category: True Bug
The bold coloration on this species of leafhopper make it unique. When threatened, leafhoppers will cock their hing legs and jump away from potential predators. This species is commonly found on blackberry canes and other ornamental plants. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Carolina Grasshopper.

Carolina Grasshopper
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Carolina Grasshoppers can be found throughout the entire United States. They eat plants and grass and are good flyers dispite thier erractic-looking flight paths. As with most insect species, the female Carolina Grasshopper is larger than the male. C... READ MORE

Picture of a Carolina Locust.

Carolina Locust
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
The Carolina Locust is another in the line of Short-horned Grasshoppers and can be identified by their short antenna and rough-looking exterior. Often found throughout North America, the Carolina Locust is generally regarded as the least destructive ... READ MORE

Picture of a Checkered Beetle.

Checkered Beetle
Category: Beetle
A strong banding pattern lends itself to the name of this beetle. Checkered beetles eat other insects: weevils, borer beetles and bark beetles. They are likely to be seen around flowers and weeds from late spring to early summer. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Cicada Killer.

Cicada Killer
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
These solitary wasps rarely sting. They ambush cicadas, oftentimes in mid-air. Even their larvae eat cicadas. Adults also drink flower nectar. They are mostly seen in the summer and form nests underground. Large nests are problematic on lawn... READ MORE

Picture of a Clouded Sulphur.

Clouded Sulphur
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This species can be seen in fields, along roads, in parks and other places with mud and/or flowers. They are very similar to Orange sulphurs in appearance. Variations in color shading is common. Caterpillars feed on clover, alfalfa and other... READ MORE

Picture of a Clymene Haploa Moth.

Clymene Haploa Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The bold coloring of this moth distinguish it physically. Behaviorally, it departs from most other moths as well in that it is active both day and night. They are attracted to wetland areas and visit flowers. Its larvae feed on willow , Joe-py... READ MORE

Picture of a Coffinfly.

Coffinfly
Category: Mayfly
Similar to their Mayfly counterparts but are tipped with three tail filaments. They are further set apart by their dark-patterned (yet clear) wings. Like dragonflies, coffinflies are resident to slow or still water sources. Over 3,000 species of Mayf... READ MORE

Picture of a Comb-Clawed Spider.

Comb-Clawed Spider
Category: Spider
Comb-clawed spiders are the most common type of house spider in North America. They come in a variety of colors and typically form webs in corners of buildings (sheds, garages, homes). They use the combs on their feet to fling strands of web at their... READ MORE

Picture of a Common Green Darner.

Common Green Darner
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
Common Green Darners are beautiful dragonflies with transparent wings. They are large specimens that are common throughout North America and are thought of to be somewhat migratory. They are a relatively large species of dragonfly and made recogn... READ MORE

Picture of a Common Sanddragon.

Common Sanddragon
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
... READ MORE

Picture of a Common Thread Waisted Wasp.

Common Thread Waisted Wasp
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
The incredibly thin 'waist' on this wasp led to its name. Adults feed on flower nectar, but larvae are parasitic. Females use their paralyzing sting to disable caterpillars and other insects. These unfortunate victims are then brought to an u... READ MORE

Picture of a Common Whitetail Skimmer.

Common Whitetail Skimmer
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
This dragonfly usually hovers over standing or slow water. Females release their eggs into the water, near the shore, but dipping their abdomen under water several times. Males have a white abdomen and use it to defend territory by flashing it at... READ MORE

Picture of a Cottonwood Borer.

Cottonwood Borer
Category: Beetle
The Cottonwood Borer is part of the larger Long-Horned Beetle family that makes its way throughout the summertime months destroying trees. They are very identifiable by their long antennae which are often times longer than the body. With over 1,200 ... READ MORE

Picture of a Cranefly.

Cranefly
Category: Fly
Though they look like giant mosquitoes, they are not mosquitoes. Craneflies do not bite and they do not have a long proboscis (snout). Females may have a long ovipositor, resembling a needle-like stinger, but it is used to deposit eggs in moist soil.... READ MORE

Picture of a Dark Jerusalem Cricket.

Dark Jerusalem Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Dark Jerusalem Crickets are a wingless species common to California. They are rather large for a cricket and have a distinctly large head. The most identifying feature of this insect is its striped abdomen featuring black and light lines. This critte... READ MORE

Picture of a Darking Beetle.

Darking Beetle
Category: Beetle
This beetle walks with its head down and can be found roaming desert areas eating fungi and plant matter. It burrows under the sand when intense daylight heats up the ground. It stands still if disturbed. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Desert Tarantula.

Desert Tarantula
Category: Spider
Desert Tarantulas are a common sight in the Southwestern states. They generally hide during the day, choosing instead to rest under rock collections or in protective holed burrows that are uninhabited in desert soil areas until dusk and night. As wi... READ MORE

Picture of a Devil's Coach Horse.

Devil's Coach Horse
Category: Beetle
All-black body with no shine and appearing dull in any light. Abdominal segments are easily discernable. The Devil's Coach Horse takes on an interesting look when disturbed - raising its abdomen forward and opening up its powerful pincers. The abdome... READ MORE

Picture of a Dobsonfly.

Dobsonfly
Category: Alderfly or Dobsonfly
Dobsonflies appear to be quite fearsome, having what appears to be tentacle-like appendages for mouth parts. In fact, the males of the species cannot even bite though females can deliver quite a painful bite if agitated. Males are also the only one o... READ MORE

Picture of a Dog Day Cicada.

Dog Day Cicada
Category: Cicada and Similar
Seen during the hottest days of the summer, adults have a call that sounds like a circular saw tearing through wood. Larvae is believed to suck the juice/water out of pine tree roots. The species disappears from the area once all pines are gone/... READ MORE

Picture of a Dogbane Leaf Beetle.

Dogbane Leaf Beetle
Category: Beetle
Metallic green and coppery hues make this beetle stand out from the rest. Dogbane leaf beetles mate, feed and grow on the Dogbane plant. Adults feed on the leaves. They also mate on the plant. Females lay a couple of eggs in thei own feces an... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Carpenter Bee.

Eastern Carpenter Bee
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Though is looks like a Bumble Bee, the Carpenter Bee does not have a fuzzy abdomen. Females bore into wood, like a carpenter, making holes as large as their bodies and deposit their eggs and a food supply inside. They can be found in parks, ... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Eyed Click Beetle.

Eastern Eyed Click Beetle
Category: Beetle
The click beetle has two large black 'eyespots' on its pronotum. They are surrounded by a thin, white ring. Larvae (wireworms) eat plants and other living things in the soil. Adults do not eat very much and are often found on pruned trees. Click... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Harvestman.

Eastern Harvestman
Category: Spider
Harvestman are not spiders, though they resemble them in many ways. They are relatives of the spider. They do not have fangs, are not venomous and do not bite. Their long legs do more for them than travel. The second pair of legs act as ant... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Hercules Beetle.

Eastern Hercules Beetle
Category: Beetle
This massive beetle can be found in forests. Despite their size, they still fly. As members of the rhinocerous beetle family, males have two horn-like pincers on their head, while females lack them. They are likely used in battle with other males o... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth.

Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
These moths get their name from their caterpillar behavior. Together, caterpillars create a tent of silk as a 'home' on the tree or shrub they are feeding off. Females lay black egg sacks on twigs, near a leaf bud and the caterpillars eat the le... READ MORE

Picture of a Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Eastern Tiger Swallowtails have a bright tiger-like striping pattern with the males showcasing a mostly-yellow coloring with black edges. The female (in black form) is seen with a similar pattern but more as a brown instead of yellow with hints o... READ MORE

Picture of a Edwards Glassy Wing Moth.

Edwards Glassy Wing Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The wings on this moth shimmer in the light, giving it part of its name. Its pinkish red abdomen is visible when wings are spread. They are most active in autumn and caterpillars feed on oak trees.... READ MORE

Picture of a Emerald Ash Borer.

Emerald Ash Borer
Category: Beetle
The Emerald Ash Borer is a recent addition to the line of tree-boring beetles in North America. As recently as June 2002, the beetle was identified in Windsor, Ontario, Canada and in the Southeast portion of the state of Michigan, USA. It is a highly... READ MORE

Picture of a European Earwig.

European Earwig
Category: Earwig
Contrary to popular belief, earwigs do NOT crawl into human ears and bite or pinch people. In fact, earwigs are harmless. Their pincers are formidable in defense against other earwigs (males fighting for females) or predators. The pincers also h... READ MORE

Picture of a European Mantid.

European Mantid
Category: Mantid
As the name suggests, European Mantids were one native to Europe and discovered in the United States by 1899. They are highly recognizeable creatures mainly by their unique shape but also by their green color. Their bodies are relatively large with f... READ MORE

Picture of a Field Cricket.

Field Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Field Crickets are a common site throughout the United States. Warm summer nights bring them out en masse as the males chirp about (up to 30 times a minute) in an effort to attract a female. Field Crickets make them homes in the ground or built-up p... READ MORE

Picture of a Fiery Skipper.

Fiery Skipper
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This species can be seen flying on grass (lawns), fields and forest openings. Larvae feed on grass. Though a butterfly, this small species is sometimes mistaken for a moth.... READ MORE

Picture of a Firebrat.

Firebrat
Category: Bristletail
Firebrats appear much like Silverfish and are part of the same Thysanura Order and Lepismatidae Family. They have a long and flat silvery body with spike-like hairs protruding from yellowish scale-type plates. They are common throughout all of North ... READ MORE

Picture of a Fishfly.

Fishfly
Category: Alderfly or Dobsonfly
Fishflies are part of the Alderfly and Dobsonfly group of winged insects. Generally noticeable for their large size, color and seemingly uncoordinated flight approach. Larvae are found about vegetation nearing bodies of moving water while adults can ... READ MORE

Picture of a Flower Fly.

Flower Fly
Category: Fly
This fly looks like a bee or wasp, taking full advantage of mimicry. The coloration wards off would-be predators. Upon close examination, one can see there is no stinger at the tip of the abdomen. This species feeds on aphids (tiny insects that ... READ MORE

Picture of a Forage Looper Moth.

Forage Looper Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
As caterpillars, looper moths tend to move with a looping gait. Moths are usually seen feeding on grasses, clover and ragweed.... READ MORE

Picture of a Formica Ant.

Formica Ant
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Ants in the Formica genus have only 1 knob (bump) between the thorax and abdomen. They feed on the honeydew created by aphids (also in photo). This group of ants do not sting, but they can bite as well as spray formic acid from the tips of their... READ MORE

Picture of a Funnel-Web Spider.

Funnel-Web Spider
Category: Spider
Noted for the shape of their webs, Funnel-web spiders create cave-like webs and hide in the back. They are fast movers and chase their prey, dragging their catch into the funnel. They can be found on grass, in low shrubs or along fences. They hav... READ MORE

Picture of a German Cockroach.

German Cockroach
Category: Cockroach
Smaller than American and Oriental cockroaches, German cockroaches are notorious household pests. Infesting houses, restaurants and other institutions with food pantries, they come out at night or in the dark, scavenging for whatever they can fin... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Darner.

Giant Darner
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
The Giant Darner is hailed as the largest example of dragonfly to be found in the United States of America. The beautiful creature can measure in at about 5" in length with a mighty wingspan of up to 5" as well. Highly identifiable by their blue and ... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Leopard Moth.

Giant Leopard Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This white tiger moth has distinct black rings as well as black spots along its wings. They can grow to large sizes, fitting in the palm of an adult's hand. They release a yellow fluid when they are disturbed. Like most moths, they are nocturnal ... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Mayfly.

Giant Mayfly
Category: Mayfly
Giant Mayflies are common in the Eastern United States and can appear in large quantities in the summer months. They represent one of the largest Mayfly type insects in North America and dwell in and around water sources, laying their eggs in the wat... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Red Velvet Mite.

Giant Red Velvet Mite
Category: Mite or Tick
The bright red coloration make it easy to spot a red velvet mite. They usually appear in large numbers after summer rains. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Stick Insect.

Giant Stick Insect
Category: Walkingstick or Timema
The Giant Walkingstick is the largest Walkingstick species in North America, measuring in at anywhere between 75mm and 150mm. Their camouflage is - taking the appearance of a twig or small branch - is so good in fact that one can often miss these daz... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Stonefly.

Giant Stonefly
Category: Stonefly
Giant Stoneflies are a uniquely-shaped insect that are highly identifiable by their veined wings. These wings are long and crossover the body when at rest, covering the body and extending out over them. Stoneflies will also be seen with thin long ant... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Swallowtail Butterfly.

Giant Swallowtail Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This is the largest species of butterfly in North America. They can be found in gardens, at the edges of forests or citus groves. In warmer areas, many generations can exist in one year. They are active year-round, but less likely to be seen i... READ MORE

Picture of a Giant Water Bug.

Giant Water Bug
Category: True Bug
Large insect species with noticeable foreleg pincers. Mostly flat and oval shaped with dead leaf-like coloring. The Giant Water Bug is known to play dead in order to escape predators. It is also able to deliver a painful bite when disturbed or threat... READ MORE

Picture of a Golden Northern Bumble Bee.

Golden Northern Bumble Bee
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
The Golden Northern Bumble Bee features an all-black head and dark wings. A black band runs across the mostly yellow thorax and the abdomen is nearly all yellow with the exception of the very tip, which is black. White coloring is also present to the... READ MORE

Picture of a Golden Silk Orbweaver.

Golden Silk Orbweaver
Category: Spider
The size of this spider can be frightening. While males remain quite small (up to 1/4 inch), females can grow to become 3 inches. The abdomen of this spider is shaped like a banana and only the 1st, 2nd and 4th pairs of legs have black tufts of h... READ MORE

Picture of a Goldenrod Crab Spider.

Goldenrod Crab Spider
Category: Spider
This species of spider uses camouflage as its primary defense, but will bite as well. They are able to change their coloration over the course of several days to blend in better with their surroundings. They are an ambush spider, jumping on their... READ MORE

Picture of a Grapevine Hoplia.

Grapevine Hoplia
Category: Beetle
The Grapevine Hoplia is a small rounded pesky beetle that has a hunger for vegetation - it will feed on the leaves of plants or flowers in a domesticated or wild environment. The beetles themselves can be found in the warmer months of the year, parti... READ MORE

Picture of a Grass Spider.

Grass Spider
Category: Spider
Grass Spiders are common sights throughout North American summers and belong to a family of Funnel Web Weavers. Males are smaller than females. What gives these little arachnids their namesake is the web funnels that they create in the grass or in cr... READ MORE

Picture of a Gray Hairstreak Butterfly.

Gray Hairstreak Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Adults can be seen in open fields, parks, woods and gardens. It basks in the sun with its wings open, unlike other hairstreaks. Three generations are born in a year. The caterpillar feeds on the flowers of legumes and mallow plants. It can a... READ MORE

Picture of a Gray Silverfish.

Gray Silverfish
Category: Bristletail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Great Blue Skimmer.

Great Blue Skimmer
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
Brightly colored bodies are characterisic of the dragonflies in the Libellulidae family. Members are sometimes called King Skimmers. The wings of the Blue Skimmer have bands and spots. Larvae develop in still waters. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Green Lynx Spider.

Green Lynx Spider
Category: Spider
As its name might suggest, the Green Lynx Spider is a highly identifiable green spider of the Lynx spider grouping. Appearing an almost leaf-greenish shade, the species is further complimented by orange on the legs and black dots on a gray coloring a... READ MORE

Picture of a Gulf Fritillary Butterfly.

Gulf Fritillary Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This tropical butterfly has short hairs on its front legs, making it part of the 'brush footed' butterfly family. The caterpillar is yellow-greenish brown with orange-brown stripes. Two horns at the head and6 rows of branching spines give the app... READ MORE

Picture of a Hardwood Stump Borer Beetle.

Hardwood Stump Borer Beetle
Category: Beetle
Large thick pincers (jaws) on the males are quite intimidating. This species is usually found in tree stumps or structural wood, but have been known to live in trees that have not been cut down. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Hister Beetle.

Hister Beetle
Category: Beetle
... READ MORE

Picture of a Honey Bee.

Honey Bee
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Honey Bees break down into two classes, the worker bees (numbering up to 80,000 in a single nest) and the Queen Bee. Working bees feature a nearly all-black head with a body coloring of golden brown and black with patches of a dull orange. Yellow ... READ MORE

Picture of a Horntail Wasp.

Horntail Wasp
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Females appear to have two menacing stingers, but they are actually an ovipositor (for injecting eggs into wood) and a spine that aids in splitting wood. ... READ MORE

Picture of a House Centipede.

House Centipede
Category: Centipede
The House Centipede is a very common sight throughout North America, particularly found in indoor locations that are wet or damp and most often times active at night. In warmer climates, they may be found outdoors as well as indoors. House Centip... READ MORE

Picture of a House Cricket.

House Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Crickets can appear very similarly to their related cousins - the Grasshopper - but can be discerned by the fact that common crickets only have 3 tarsal segmented body sections. Crickets are a very common nighttime sound as males produce their chirpi... READ MORE

Picture of a Hover Fly.

Hover Fly
Category: Fly
Although it looks like a wasp or bee, this species of fly cannot bite or sting. Larvae feed on aphids (smaller insects that eat plants) and pupate in soil. Adults emerge in the summer and drink flower nectar. They are often seen 'hovering' ove... READ MORE

Picture of a Hummingbird Moth.

Hummingbird Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Fast beating wings give it the appearance of a small hummingbird but the moth lacks the long beak. The wings are usually transparent (like a fly) which is another indicator that it is not a true bird. It drinks the nectar of many kinds of flowers.... READ MORE

Picture of a Huntsman Spider.

Huntsman Spider
Category: Spider
Although this species of spider is already established in the Southeast, sometimes they stow away on produce from Mexico or Central America and land in other states. Part of the crab spider family, this spider is comforable angling its first 2-3... READ MORE

Picture of a Ichneumon Wasp.

Ichneumon Wasp
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
There are several different species, each with its own color variations. All have the wasp body shape, a thin waist and an abdomen longer than the rest of the body. Members of the family Ophion have abdomens that are shorter than Megarhyssa, but the... READ MORE

Picture of a Iron Clad Beetle.

Iron Clad Beetle
Category: Beetle
The exoskeletons of these beetles is extremely thick, hence their name. This species is living jewelry in Mexico where the beetles are decorated by jewelers. Ironclad beetles are nocturnal and will act dead if touched or disturbed. They are kn... READ MORE

Picture of a Ivory Marked Beetle.

Ivory Marked Beetle
Category: Beetle
The defining ivory spots on the top of this beetle come in pairs. They are usually found in forests or lumberyards. Larvae bore deep into heartwood of a tree, destroying it. Trees such as oak, maple, hickory and ash are popular sites for larval i... READ MORE

Picture of a Japanese Beetle.

Japanese Beetle
Category: Beetle
The Japanese Beetle is a pest not native to the United States, let alone North America. It is believed to have arrived by way of ship from Japan into New Jersey in the early part of the 1900's. Since then, the beetle has made a home in most of the ea... READ MORE

Picture of a Japygid Dipluran.

Japygid Dipluran
Category: Bristletail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Jerusalem Cricket.

Jerusalem Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
This slow-moving humpbacked cricket is often taken for a spider until one counts the number of legs. They are really slow in spring during their mating season. Their hind legs have 2 rows of spines. The tracks they leave behind are unique, cr... READ MORE

Picture of a Johnson Jumping Spider.

Johnson Jumping Spider
Category: Spider
These tiny spiders jump large distances (considering their size) to catch their prey. They are day-time hunters and hide out at night and in the winter. They have been known to bite humans, but without serious effects. Females weave funnel-sh... READ MORE

Picture of a Jumping Bristletail.

Jumping Bristletail
Category: Bristletail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Katydid.

Katydid
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Katydids get their name from the sounds they make. The repetitive calls sounded like someone saying, "Ka-ty-did". They are remarkably well-camouflaged for sitting on trees. Their body resembles a green leaf, even down to the detailed venation (v... READ MORE

Picture of a Labyrinthine Orb Weaver Spider.

Labyrinthine Orb Weaver Spider
Category: Spider
The web of this spider is more like a starburst, rather than a typical orb, making it unique and easy to identify. Some spiders create two webs; one orb-shaped, the other irregular in shape. The spider will conceal itself on the web using leaves ... READ MORE

Picture of a Leaf Footed Bug.

Leaf Footed Bug
Category: True Bug
These large plant-eaters have thick thighs, often with spikes on them. They make a loud noise when they fly and can emit an odor when bothered. Most species are found in the south United States.... READ MORE

Picture of a Least Skipper Moth.

Least Skipper Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
... READ MORE

Picture of a Locust Borer Beetle.

Locust Borer Beetle
Category: Beetle
Adults are often seen on goldenrod plants, feeding on the pollen in autumn. Larvae are deposited into the heartwood of the locust tree, emerging after winter. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Long-bodied Cellar Spider.

Long-bodied Cellar Spider
Category: Spider
The shape of the abdomen aided in an alternate name for this spider. Although the name Daddy-Long-Legs is as an additional alternate name for this spider, Daddy-Long-Legs is also used to refer to Harvestmen, which are not spiders. It can be see... READ MORE

Picture of a Luna Moth.

Luna Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This pale green moth can be found in hardwood forests. They are greatly attracted to lights at night. A member of the Silkmoth family, the larvae of the Luna moth spins a silky cocoon. Larvae eat birch, sweetgum, hickory and walnut trees. Cater... READ MORE

Picture of a Marbled Orb Weaver.

Marbled Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The unique 'marbling' pattern of colors on the abdomen, the orange head and black and white legs make this spider visually stunning. Like other orb weavers, this spider creates circular webs daily. This species prefers moist locations near water... READ MORE

Picture of a Maritime Earwig.

Maritime Earwig
Category: Earwig
The habitat of this species is in bays and coastal areas around high tide, which helped it earn its name. Females will lay eggs under driftwood. They hunt at night, walking the beach for prey and dead arthropods. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Mealy Bug Destroyer Larvae.

Mealy Bug Destroyer Larvae
Category: Beetle
The unique white 'hairs' on this tiny bug often draw attention from people. These larvae are extremely useful in pest management. Their name describes what they eat and what they can do to their prey's population. This species was deliberately i... READ MORE

Picture of a Milkweed Bug.

Milkweed Bug
Category: True Bug
Adult milkweed bugs do not seem to damage garden and field crops. They drink the nectar of various plants as well as the milkweed plant, their namesake. Adults may be seen in huge numbers on warm winter days as they overwinter. This species lay... READ MORE

Picture of a Mimosa Yellow Sulphur.

Mimosa Yellow Sulphur
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The Mimosa Yellow closely resembles the Barred Yellow Sulphur, which lacks dark dots, as well as the Little Yellow Sulphur, which has a pair of black dots at the base of its hindwing as well as near the tip. Its range is small and it rarely stray fr... READ MORE

Picture of a Monarch Butterfly.

Monarch Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Monarch Butterflies are a common sight throughout North America, with the exception of the extreme northern regions. Their orange and black coloring, mixed with a little white, make them instantly recognizable. Yellow and brown can also be found on t... READ MORE

Picture of a Mormon Cricket.

Mormon Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
In 1848, this species of katydid nearly wiped out the crops of Mormon farmers. They prefer grasses and sage brush, but can be seen at the openings of forests as well. While this species eats plant matter, sometimes it resorts to cannibalism.... READ MORE

Picture of a Northern Mole Cricket.

Northern Mole Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Mole Crickets are a breed of cricket commonly found east of the Rocky Mountains with a broad range reaching from southern Canada into Mexico. They tend to operate during nighttime hours and spend most of their time burrowing into soil. Identifying... READ MORE

Picture of a Northern Walkingstick.

Northern Walkingstick
Category: Walkingstick or Timema
Northern Walkingsticks are a child’s favorite type of bug, if they chose to be brave enough to handle any insect. They are unique in their chameleon-like design and are completely harmless to the handler - choosing instead to feed on the deciduous fo... READ MORE

Picture of a Notch Tipped Flower Longhorn Beetle.

Notch Tipped Flower Longhorn Beetle
Category: Beetle
Larva from this species of beetle bore deep into decayed wood and remain there over winter. They feed on the wood and pupate in spring. Adults emerge from the wood in summer and feed on the nectar of plants, especiallly sumac.... READ MORE

Picture of a Nursery Web Spider.

Nursery Web Spider
Category: Spider
The Nursery Web Spider derives its name from the care it takes of the egg sac. Females carry the sac with their fangs and build a web for it in high weeds or low shrubs, suspending it from a leaf. The female then guards the eggs until they hatch. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Orb Weaver.

Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
Orb Weavers come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Common traits among some include the rounded abdomen and orange-to-brown and brown or black coloring - those this colors may vary per species. Legs of an Orb Weaver are generally very long, g... READ MORE

Picture of a Ox Beetle.

Ox Beetle
Category: Beetle
The sheer size of this relative of the Rhinocerous beetle makes for an unforgettable first impression. Adults are nocturnal, usually seen at night. Larvae feed on leaf litter dragged into the burrow they hatched in by the female. Later, they e... READ MORE

Picture of a Pale Windscorpion.

Pale Windscorpion
Category: Windscorpion
Windscorpions hide in burrows during the day and come out at night and hunt other arachnids as well as insects. They are native to dry, arid regions (deserts). They cut up their prey with large pincers (chelicerae)that resemble fangs. They run i... READ MORE

Picture of a Parson Spider.

Parson Spider
Category: Spider
A unique pattern on the abdomen makes this spider easier to identify than others. This species of spider does not spin webs to catch prey. Instead, it roams the ground and searched for its food. This spider's bite has caused allergic reations... READ MORE

Picture of a Pearl Crescent Butterfly.

Pearl Crescent Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Adults can be seen most anywhere: fields, roadsides, forest clearings. Coloring variations within the species is not uncommon. This species is very popular and familiar in eastern North America. Larvae feed on aster plants.... READ MORE

Picture of a Periodical Cicada.

Periodical Cicada
Category: Cicada and Similar
The Periodical Cicada is generally more well known in the Midwest as the Seventeen Year Cicada due to their periodical emergence every thirteen or seventeen years. Cicadas during this time can appear in the hundreds, if not thousands, as mating seaso... READ MORE

Picture of a Pigeon Tremex.

Pigeon Tremex
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Many species of horntail wasps have an elongated spine at the tip of their abdomen in addition to a stinger. Females have ovipositors that can be as long as their entire body. The ovipositor looks similar to a needle and is used by the female to in... READ MORE

Picture of a Pine Sawyer Beetle.

Pine Sawyer Beetle
Category: Beetle
Active at dusk, adults can be seen flying near lights (males) or walking on logs or stumps. Their pronotum has spines on it and their armour-like wings are highly textured. Larvae bore through dead wood and emerge as adults, leaving behind tunn... READ MORE

Picture of a Pipevine Swallowtail.

Pipevine Swallowtail
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This butterfly mimics the coloring of several other butterflies, including the Spicebush and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Rusty-black caterpillars feed on pipevines like snakeroot and Dutchman's pipe. Adults can be found in a variety of habitats ... READ MORE

Picture of a Plume Moth.

Plume Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Their thin body and 'T' shape make this moth unique. Their wings have the appearance of a plume (feather) and when at rest, the moth rolls them into a rod shape. Like other moths, they are most active at night, but they can be seen near pollen so... READ MORE

Picture of a Polka Dot Wasp Moth.

Polka Dot Wasp Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Polka Dot Wasp Moths are common to tropical climates and make their North American home in the Southeastern United States, appearing year-round in locales such as Florida. Though they take on the appearance - and in some cases behavior - of a wasp... READ MORE

Picture of a Proturan.

Proturan
Category: Proturan
... READ MORE

Picture of a Pseudoscorpion.

Pseudoscorpion
Category: Pseudoscorpion
Although they look like tiny scorpions, pseudoscorpions lack a tail or stinger. The pedipalps (pincers) may or may not be poisonous to their insect prey. Their small size allows them free rides by latching on to larger insects, including flies. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Red Headed Ash Borer.

Red Headed Ash Borer
Category: Beetle
Red Headed Ash Borer beetles are related to the Long Horned Borer beetles. They mimic wasps by appearance only and are often confused with their flying counterparts as these beetles themselves can fly as well - though these beetles are not very acco... READ MORE

Picture of a Red Oak Borer.

Red Oak Borer
Category: Beetle
The larvae of this beetle bore into weak, but still living, red oak and white oak trees. Because of the damage it does, it is considered a pest to the timber industry. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Red Spotted Ant Mimic Spider.

Red Spotted Ant Mimic Spider
Category: Spider
This spider acts like an ant to gain better positioning when attacking prey. It walks on its back 6 legs while raising the front pair as if they were antennae.... READ MORE

Picture of a Red Velvet Ant.

Red Velvet Ant
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Although they look like ants, Velvet ants are acutally hairy wasps! They scurry about the ground like ants and carry a painful sting. Males can fly, but females are wingless. Adults drink nectar. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Reticulated Netwinged Beetle.

Reticulated Netwinged Beetle
Category: Beetle
This beetle resembles the firefly, but the ridges and pattern of veins on their wings place them in the Lycidae family. When threatened, adults open their wings. Adults are active in the day, seen largely flying by, or resting on, flowers and ... READ MORE

Picture of a Ring-Legged Earwig.

Ring-Legged Earwig
Category: Earwig
The Earwig is a common sight throughout North America and gets it creepy name from the false idea that these insects actually crawl into your ear and bite you from the inside. The fact is that these insects are generally afraid of people and are more... READ MORE

Picture of a Robber Fly.

Robber Fly
Category: Fly
Robber flies eat biting flies and other flying insects. They chase them in flight, overtake them and suck out the victim's insides after stopping on a branch or leaf. They make a loud whirring noise as they fly because they beat their wings so ... READ MORE

Picture of a Rose Chafer.

Rose Chafer
Category: Beetle
These small and slender members of the beetle family are a common pest usually associated with roses though they venture into eating other types of plant material. The larvae are equally adept at destroying plant life including grass and will attack ... READ MORE

Picture of a Running Spider.

Running Spider
Category: Spider
Running spiders, or sac spiders, do not form webs. Instead they hunt their prey with quickening speed. The reddish head and abdomen are in contrast from the lighter legs. Hind legs are lightest, appearing almost white.... READ MORE

Picture of a Saddleback Caterpillar.

Saddleback Caterpillar
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This highly unusual caterpillar becomes a brown moth as an adult. The caterpillar stings and this can sometimes leave a rash on its human victim. They feed on grass, trees and shrubs. The summer season is its most active. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Seashore Springtail.

Seashore Springtail
Category: Springtail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Silverfish.

Silverfish
Category: Bristletail
These little pests can be found in the dark warm places of the home. They have a very unique tapered shape and can appear to be very flat. The most noticeable feature of the Silverfish besides their color of silver is the three tails found at rear. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Silver-spotted Skipper.

Silver-spotted Skipper
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This ubiquitous skipper can be found in a diverse variety of habitats. They are very common in eastern North America, but are more likely to be seen in mountainous regions on the west side. The larvae are known to feed on wisteria, locusts and leg... READ MORE

Picture of a Six-Spotted Orbweaver Spider.

Six-Spotted Orbweaver Spider
Category: Spider
The six defined black spots on the abdomen aid in identifying this spider. Each spot has a very pale ring around it. They can be found in meadows, tall grasses and bushes as well as fields and pastures. Their small orb-shaped webs are usually bui... READ MORE

Picture of a Small Minnow Mayfly.

Small Minnow Mayfly
Category: Mayfly
Small Minnow Mayflies are a favorite among trout that await their surfacing only to gobble the Mayflies up in the process. As such, the Small Minnow Mayfly is the source of one of the more popular baits made by flyfishermen. Minnow Mayflies are attra... READ MORE

Picture of a Small-eyed Sphinx Moth.

Small-eyed Sphinx Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
A member of the Hawk Moth family, the size of this species is startling. Females can average 3" while males are usually smaller. The orange stripe on its back is akin to a mohawk. The green caterpillar feeds on cherries, hawthorn, serviceberrie... READ MORE

Picture of a Sminthurid Springtail.

Sminthurid Springtail
Category: Springtail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Snakefly.

Snakefly
Category: Snakefly
Larvae feed on bark. Adults prey on insects.... READ MORE

Picture of a Snow Mosquito.

Snow Mosquito
Category: Fly
The Snow Mosquito is a special breed of mosquito commonly limited to northern portions of the United States. The Snow Mosquito differs from regular summertime mosquitoes in ways that include staying active during the winter months when their counterp... READ MORE

Picture of a Snowberry Clearwing Moth.

Snowberry Clearwing Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Though this species looks like a bee, it does not land on flowers as bees do. Instead, it hovers in front of the flower to collect its nectar.... READ MORE

Picture of a Soldier Beetle.

Soldier Beetle
Category: Beetle
Commonly found in parks and fields, this species of beetle feed on pollen. They are usually spotted on flowers, especiallly Goldenrod. They are active late summer to early autumn.... READ MORE

Picture of a Southern Black Widow.

Southern Black Widow
Category: Spider
Female Black Widows are well-known and particularly feared for their venomous bites. They are shiney in look and feature a red hour-glass shape on their abdomen (sometimes appearing as two red marks). The male is smaller than the female and is brown ... READ MORE

Picture of a Spangled Flower Beetle.

Spangled Flower Beetle
Category: Beetle
This grubs of this beetle can be found in ant nests. They emerge as adults in late summer, overwinter and make another appearance in the spring of the next year.... READ MORE

Picture of a Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly.

Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This spcecies of butterfly can be found in gardens and at the edges of forests. Its coloration resembles that of the Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly. Larvae feed on spicebush, sassafras and bay plants. The green caterpillar has a humpback wit... READ MORE

Picture of a Spined Micrathena Spider.

Spined Micrathena Spider
Category: Spider
The ridges on the abdomen of the female spider are thought to render it unappetizing to predators. The coloration may act as camouflage as the species resides in dense forests where mottled lighting may be all that gets through to the floor. The ... READ MORE

Picture of a Spiny Backed Orb Weaver.

Spiny Backed Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The spines on the side of this spider make it unique and easy to recognize. Males are considerably smaller than females. Like other orb weavers, it creates a web that is circular in shape, only it has few or no spirals at the center of its web. Each... READ MORE

Picture of a Spitting Spider.

Spitting Spider
Category: Spider
This spider earned its name by spraying its prey of small insects with a sticky secretion. Once the prey is subdued, it bites, injecting fluid that liquifies the internal components of the prey's body. They can be found in woods, under rocks, sto... READ MORE

Picture of a Spotted Camel Cricket.

Spotted Camel Cricket
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
The high arching 'back' of this cricket helped name it. This species is found in forests, under rocks and even in basements. They feed at night on plants and even some other insects. These Camel Crickets have the traditional large hind legs... READ MORE

Picture of a Spotted Orb Weaver.

Spotted Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
These hairy spiders are nocturnal, leaving orb webs up to 2 feet in diameter in woodlands to catch their prey. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Spotted Tree Borer Beetle.

Spotted Tree Borer Beetle
Category: Beetle
... READ MORE

Picture of a Spur-throated Grasshopper.

Spur-throated Grasshopper
Category: Grasshopper or Cricket
Spur-throated Grasshoppers (part of the Short-horned Grasshopper family) are the most common species of grasshopper in all of North America. Noted mostly for the damage that inflict to crops in the Midwest states, the Spur-throated Grasshopper appear... READ MORE

Picture of a Squash Bug.

Squash Bug
Category: True Bug
Squash bugs are similar in appearance to Stink bugs. Both emit an odor when crushed, but squash bugs tend to feed on melons and squash while stink bugs feed on legumes. Squash bugs suck on the juices of plant stems, leaves and fruits, leaving gap... READ MORE

Picture of a Stag Beetle.

Stag Beetle
Category: Beetle
Common east of the Mississippi. Noted for their large size and ferocious appearance, complete with hard shell and imposing pincer-like mandibles. The mandibles on the female are shorter than that of the male, whose mandibles can be about the size of ... READ MORE

Picture of a Swamp Cicada.

Swamp Cicada
Category: Cicada and Similar
These harmless insects are known for the loud buzzing noise the males make in the summer. The mating call attracts females, who deposit their eggs inside twigs of tree branches. The ridges on the legs of cicadas are used to saw off the twigs, allow... READ MORE

Picture of a Tachinid Fly.

Tachinid Fly
Category: Fly
Tachinid flies are lethal predators to the insects they feed on. Most feed on the caterpillars of moths. Because of their diet, some Tachinid Flies have been deliberately imported from other areas to control destructive moth populations. Prey may... READ MORE

Picture of a Tailless Whipscorpion.

Tailless Whipscorpion
Category: Tailless Whipscorpion
Large, menacing pedipalps (claws) are meant to capture and crush prey as well as groom. The forelegs (first pair in front) end in antennae and whip around and in front of the Whipscorpion, feeling for prey. Usually hidden all day in dark area... READ MORE

Picture of a Tan Jumping Spider.

Tan Jumping Spider
Category: Spider
A member of Salticidae, this spider jumps to ambush its prey instead of creating webs. This species is known to be friendly toward gentle humand and has a reputation for exploring people. They are not inclined to bite, but may if handled roughly.... READ MORE

Picture of a Tarantula Hawk.

Tarantula Hawk
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Male and female Tarantula Hawks vary in subtle ways. Male antenna are straight, while their abdomens are segmented into 7 sections. Female antenna are curved with their abdomens segmented into only 6 sections. Tarantula Hawks take on a variety of col... READ MORE

Picture of a Tersa Sphinx Moth.

Tersa Sphinx Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The large, stiff wings of this moth may give it the appearance of a small bird. Their size and projection at the tip of their abdomen may be intimidating but the are quite harmless. Adults feed on pollen, though some species of Sphinx moth also ... READ MORE

Picture of a Thistle Down Velvet Ant.

Thistle Down Velvet Ant
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Although it looks and walks like an ant, this hairy little creature is a wasp! This particular species mimics the seeds of the creosote bush, blending in with the other debris around it. Larvae feed on the larvae of the Sand Wasp. Females wil... READ MORE

Picture of a Three Lined Potato Beetle.

Three Lined Potato Beetle
Category: Beetle
This species feeds on nightshade and tomatillos, the green 'tomatoes' used to make salsa verde and, of course, potatoes. Larvae are grayish in color and grub-like in form. They can be found in garden beds or cultivated fields.... READ MORE

Picture of a Tick.

Tick
Category: Mite or Tick
Ticks are parasites that feed off the blood of a host. As they feed, they release anticoagulants, chemicals that prevent blood from clotting (stopping). There are many species of ticks, some which spread disease to humans (Lyme disease, Rocky Moun... READ MORE

Picture of a Tobacco Hornworm Moth.

Tobacco Hornworm Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
The name of this moth likely comes from its appearance as a caterpillar. The green body has black and white diagonal stripes running along its back with an eyespot at the end of each stripe. At the tip of the caterpillar is a reddish-brown horn-lik... READ MORE

Picture of a Trashline Orb Weaver.

Trashline Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The name of this spider stems from its thicker line of silk in the web (stabilimentum). The purpose of the stablimentum has not been concretely determined in academic circles. Some argue it is designed to attract insects, but deter birds (which coul... READ MORE

Picture of a Triangulate Cob Web Spider.

Triangulate Cob Web Spider
Category: Spider
The triangle pattern on the abdomen helped name this spider. It is a common house spider, hiding in dark corners of rooms or out buildings. They are believed to have poor eyesight, depending on the vibrations from their web to find the prey tangle... READ MORE

Picture of a Tuft-Legged Orb Weaver.

Tuft-Legged Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
The fine, mesh web of this spider is a bit different than other orb weavers. They can be found commonly in forest undergrowth and shrubs as well as tall grasses. Webs are vertical with a slight incline. ... READ MORE

Picture of a Turret Spider.

Turret Spider
Category: Spider
Native to Northern California, the Turret Spider is part of the larger family of "Folding Trapdoor Spiders" that live in self-made burrows dug into the ground. Though other "Trapdoor Spider" types exist, Folding Trapdoor Spiders actually make use of ... READ MORE

Picture of a Varied Carpet Beetle.

Varied Carpet Beetle
Category: Beetle
Adults can be found indoors where they feed on pollen. Larvae can be pests at home as well as in universities. They feed on many household items: clothing made from natural fibers (wool, silk, cotton), carpets (hence their name) and even cereal. L... READ MORE

Picture of a Venusta Orchard Spider.

Venusta Orchard Spider
Category: Spider
Common in forested areas, this colorful spider almost appears to be painted. Bright red, orange or yellow coloration at the tip of the abdomen may or may not be present. Webs can be in shrubs or trees and are widely-spaced strands. They hang up-... READ MORE

Picture of a Walnut Sphinx Moth.

Walnut Sphinx Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Native to deciduous woodlands, Walnut Sphinx Moths are highly common throughout Missouri with limited appearances in certain portions of other states east of the Rocky Mountains. Colors of the Walnut Sphinx Moth differ from sample to sample so thi... READ MORE

Picture of a Wasp Moth.

Wasp Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This moth mimics the coloring of a wasp as a measure of protection. Predators are less likely to attack if they believe they could be hurt. Caterpillars can do substantial damage to orchard trees as they bore into the wood Adults feed on poll... READ MORE

Picture of a Water Springtail.

Water Springtail
Category: Springtail
... READ MORE

Picture of a Western Flying Adder.

Western Flying Adder
Category: Dragonfly or Damselfly
The Western Flying Adder is part of the very common summer flying insect generically grouped as "dragonflies". They appear quite large when compared to most insects at about 70mm to 85mm in length. With their wings, they can hit heights of up to 135m... READ MORE

Picture of a Western Hercules Beetle.

Western Hercules Beetle
Category: Beetle
Adults feed on ash tree sap and can be found at higher elevations or in canyons. Males have a 'horn' believed to be used to fight with other males over territory held for mating. Females lack horns. Both genders are attracted to light. Larv... READ MORE

Picture of a Western Spotted Orb Weaver.

Western Spotted Orb Weaver
Category: Spider
Orb weavers spin circular webs and this species tends to create them in open areas. These spiders do not spin any zigzag patterns (stabilimenta) in the center of their web. They feed on anything that entangles itself in their webs: flies, moths, ... READ MORE

Picture of a Western Wood Cockroach.

Western Wood Cockroach
Category: Cockroach
This species of cockroach prefer to live outdoors. They hide under rocks or leaf litter by day and forage on plant matter or animal food at night. Males are winged and females lack wings. Males may be attracted to lights at night.... READ MORE

Picture of a Wheel Bug.

Wheel Bug
Category: True Bug
Noted for their painful bite when disturbed or nonchalant handling. A member of the Assassin Bug family, this insect attacks its prey (other insects) with vicious stabbing motions using the 'fang' at the front of its head. The Wheel Bug is best ident... READ MORE

Picture of a White Oak Borer Beetle.

White Oak Borer Beetle
Category: Beetle
This species of beetle is partial to white oak trees, sometimes becoming serious pests. ... READ MORE

Picture of a White-lined Sphinx Moth.

White-lined Sphinx Moth
Category: Butterfly or Moth
Sphinx moths are larger than most moths. This species is active during the day and at night. They are attracted to lights and many of them may congregate together at a light source. It hovers over flowers, like a bird and can be found in a variet... READ MORE

Picture of a Yellow Jacket.

Yellow Jacket
Category: Bee, Ant, Wasp and Similar
Yellow Jackets are easily distinguishable by their yellow and black coloring. Measuring in length from 12mm to about 16mm, the Yellow Jacket is a common sight throughout all of North America. These flyers are commonly found along the edges of forests... READ MORE

Picture of a Zebra Butterfly.

Zebra Butterfly
Category: Butterfly or Moth
This beautiful butterfly is a common site throughout most of the Gulf States, only rarely appearing the other states mentioned below. It is highly identifiable by the yellow on black coloring when fully formed, while the caterpillar is a gray or whit... READ MORE

 
BugFinder - Search Insects by Color and State
BugFinder allows for a quick search of our database of insects. Simply select a primary color, a secondary color and the state in question. Hardly scientific but if it's in our database, this can help you find what you're looking for. Dominant Color:
Secondary Color:
State:
Reset Form
   

 

©2005-2010 InsectIdentification.org • All Rights Reserved • DisclaimerPrivacy Policy
Site Design by Runaway Studios
Business Consulting by KyleWilliams.com

Comments/Suggestions: InsectIdentification at gmail dot com

 

 

 

 

eXTReMe Tracker