Articles
100 articles on insects, identification, ecology, and the natural world.
What Are Shield Bugs?
A guide to identifying shield bugs (Pentatomidae) — their distinctive shape, biology, common UK species, and how to tell them apart from similar-looking insects...
IdentificationHow to Identify Common Butterfly Species in the UK
A practical field guide to identifying the most frequently encountered butterfly species in Britain, with key features, flight periods, and habitat preferences ...
IdentificationHow to Identify Insect Eggs
A practical guide to identifying insect eggs found in gardens and the countryside, covering common egg shapes, colours, placement strategies, and tips for ident...
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.
Gardening10 Common Garden Insects in the UK
Meet the ten insects you are most likely to find in a British garden, from helpful pollinators to common pests.
ConservationThe Importance of Pollinating Insects
A comprehensive look at the vital role pollinating insects play in food production, ecosystem health, and biodiversity, and the threats they face.
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 Are Robber Flies?
An introduction to robber flies (family Asilidae), covering their predatory behaviour, aerial hunting techniques, identification features, diversity, and ecolog...
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.
ScienceHow Do Insects Breathe?
Discover the unique tracheal system that insects use to breathe, how it differs from lungs and gills, and why it limits insect size.
ScienceThe Anatomy of an Insect
A detailed guide to insect body structure — the three main body regions, exoskeleton, respiratory system, and the specialised features that make insects unique.
ScienceHow Do Insects Navigate?
An exploration of the sophisticated navigational abilities of insects, from the sun compass and polarised light detection used by bees to the magnetic sense of ...