Articles
22 articles on insects, identification, ecology, and the natural world.
The Complete Guide to British Ladybird Species
A comprehensive guide to the ladybird species found in Britain, covering identification of the most common species, the harlequin ladybird invasion, lifecycle, ...
Species GuidesWhat Do Crane Flies Really Do?
Separating fact from myth about crane flies (Tipulidae), the gangly 'daddy-long-legs' of the insect world, covering their true biology, their leatherjacket larv...
Species GuidesWhat Are the Most Colourful Insects?
Explore the most vibrant insects on Earth — from iridescent jewel beetles and morpho butterflies to structural colour in dragonflies and pigment-based warning p...
Species GuidesWhat Are the Most Common Insects in the UK?
A guide to the most abundant and frequently encountered insect species in the United Kingdom, covering beetles, flies, ants, bees, butterflies, and other groups...
Species GuidesHow Do Water Beetles Live Underwater?
Explore the aquatic adaptations of water beetles — from air-trapping plastrons and diving bells to powerful swimming legs and underwater breathing techniques.
Species GuidesWhat Are Robber Flies?
An introduction to robber flies (family Asilidae), covering their predatory behaviour, aerial hunting techniques, identification features, diversity, and ecolog...
Species GuidesWhat Is the Most Dangerous Insect?
A look at the insects responsible for the greatest harm to humans, focusing on disease-transmitting mosquitoes, tsetse flies, and other vectors that cause milli...
Species GuidesWhat Do Hoverflies Eat?
Hoverflies are often mistaken for bees or wasps, but their diet is unique. Learn what adult hoverflies and their larvae eat, and why they matter.
Species GuidesWhat Are Click Beetles?
A detailed guide to click beetles (family Elateridae), covering their famous clicking mechanism, lifecycle, identification, the role of wireworm larvae, and the...
Species GuidesAre Earwigs Dangerous?
Separate fact from fiction about earwigs. Learn the truth about their pincers, their habits, and whether they pose any real threat to humans or gardens.
Species GuidesWhat Are Stoneflies?
An in-depth guide to stoneflies (order Plecoptera), covering their biology, aquatic lifecycle, role as water quality indicators, identification features, and ec...
Species GuidesWhat Are Mayflies?
An introduction to mayflies (order Ephemeroptera), their aquatic nymph stage, famously brief adult lives, and ecological significance in freshwater ecosystems.