“Buzzing and Bothered: How to Deal with Flying Bugs.”
Winged creatures dwell in every corner of our world. Recognizing one flying bug from another sometimes needs a closer look. This guide can help you distinguish between some of the most commonplace airborne menaces inside and outside your home.
Spotting Flies: A Ubiquitous Member of the Flying Bugs Family
Many species belong to the group diptera, which includes gnats, houseflies, horseflies, and mosquitoes. Found everywhere except in consistently frigid zones, flies are recognized by their wings, which are often transparent or opaque. Also, flies possess legs connected to their abdomens. The larvae are frequently termed “maggots,” resembling small wormlike creatures. A lot of these insects gather around animals, waste materials, and food. The conventional houseflies and fruit flies don’t bite, but a handful of their counterparts do. The bite isn’t venomous, however, they can transmit diseases, hence the use of repellents is encouraged.
Recognizing Bees and their Lookalikes
Famous for their noticeable black and yellow stripes, bees are fairly identifiable. Nevertheless, wasps and hornets, their close relatives, are often mistaken for bees. Wasps feed on insect larvae and your picnic leftovers, whereas bees collect pollen and are relatively peaceful unless their nests are threatened. You can differentiate wasps from bees by their hairless bodies and papery nests. Distinctly, wasps can sting multiple times, unlike bees who perish after a single sting. Thus, it’s wise to be careful around wasps and their nests.
See Related: Unveiling the Fascinating World of Ground Bees: Everything You Need to Know
The Beauty of Moths and Butterflies
Understanding the Differences
Moths and butterflies, considered some of the most aesthetically pleasing flying bugs, can be easily mistaken for one another. Butterflies usually possess smooth bodies, while moths tend to be fuzzier. They also differ in their metamorphosis process and the positioning of their wings. Moths have been around longer than butterflies – a testament to their adaptability and resilience.
Ancient Wonders: Dragonflies and Damselflies
Among the ancient order of insects, dragonflies and damselflies are renowned for their beauty. They boast a mystical aura with their long, vibrant bodies, and iridescent wings. Marking millions of years on Earth, both exhibit unique traits, such as large eyes and slender abdomens. Their wing structure and resting poses are some ways to tell them apart.
Naturally, there’s a whole world of flying bugs out there, right from beetles and roaches to termites, ants, and more. Why not make it a fun exercise to identify the different types of winged trespassers in your locality?