Cabbage White Butterfly (Pieris rapae)

The Cabbage White Butterfly (Pieris rapae) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, the same group that includes all butterflies and moths, and is a member of the family Pieridae, known for its white and yellow butterflies. This species is native to Europe and parts of Asia but has spread widely and become one of the most … Read more

Gypsy Moth / Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar)

The Gypsy Moth, now officially known as the Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar), belongs to the order Lepidoptera, which includes all moths and butterflies. It is a member of the family Erebidae, subfamily Lymantriinae. Originally native to Europe and parts of Asia, this species has gained widespread attention as an invasive pest in North America, where … Read more

28 Types of Bumblebee (Bombus spp.) – Identification Guide

Bumblebees belong to the genus Bombus within the family Apidae, under the order Hymenoptera, which also includes honeybees, wasps, and ants. This classification places them among some of the most efficient and complex pollinators in the insect world. They are easily recognized by their stout, hairy bodies and deep buzzing flight, traits that set them … Read more

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus): Identification, Life Cycle & Habit

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is a large and striking butterfly belonging to the order Lepidoptera and the family Papilionidae, which includes all swallowtails. Its genus Papilio is known for species that often display tail-like extensions on their hindwings, a feature thought to confuse predators. While not a plant, this butterfly is closely associated … Read more

Common Green Bottle Fly (Lucilia sericata): Identification, Habit & Distribution

The Common Green Bottle Fly (Lucilia sericata) is a member of the order Diptera, which includes all true flies. Within this order, it belongs to the family Calliphoridae, commonly known as blow flies. These flies are closely related to other carrion- and decomposer-associated species, and are well-known for their ecological role in decomposition. Though not … Read more

24 Types of Ladybugs – Identification Guide (With Pictures)

Ladybugs belong to the animal kingdom and are classified within the order Coleoptera, which includes all beetles. They are part of the family Coccinellidae, a group known for their domed, often brightly colored bodies and beneficial role in ecosystems. Despite their common name “bugs,” ladybugs are beetles and exhibit the hard forewings and chewing mouthparts … Read more

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus): Identification, Life Cycle & Habitat

Classification The Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, which encompasses all butterflies and moths. Within this order, it is a member of the family Nymphalidae, often referred to as the brush-footed butterflies. Its genus, Danaus, includes other milkweed butterflies, but plexippus stands out due to its striking coloration and long-distance migratory behavior. … Read more

24 Types of Tarantula Species – Identification Guide

Tarantulas are among the most captivating arachnids in the world, known for their large size, hairy bodies, and often intimidating appearance. Despite their fearsome reputation, these spiders are typically docile and prefer to avoid confrontation. They use their impressive physical traits not just for defense, but also for communication, courtship, and survival in a wide … Read more

48 Types of Beetles – Identification Guide (Description & Pictures)

Beetles are among the most diverse and numerous creatures on Earth, playing vital roles in nearly every ecosystem. With hard outer wings protecting their more delicate flight wings, they are built to survive in a variety of environments. These creatures have adapted to deserts, forests, wetlands, grasslands, and even urban spaces, showcasing their incredible evolutionary … Read more