Beth’s Bug Blog — nature

The bombardier beetle turns the phrase “fight fire with fire” into reality. With its explosive spray and pinpoint aim, this little alchemist is both fascinating and fearsome.

The oil beetle is a slow-moving bug with a fast-thinking survival strategy. With its toxic secretions and clever, bee-hijacking larvae, it’s an insect that thrives on both defense and deception.

The peacock spider is proof that good things come in small, dazzling packages. These pint-sized performers are nature’s way of showing us that even the tiniest creatures can put on the biggest shows.

Ever heard of a bug that looks like it time-traveled from the Jurassic era? Meet Platerodrilus, aka the trilobite beetle, a bizarre insect found in Southeast Asia’s rainforests. While the males look like typical beetles, the females steal the show with their flat, segmented bodies that resemble ancient trilobites.

Bringing a fresh Christmas tree home can sometimes mean inviting tiny, harmless bugs like aphids, spider mites, or even spiders along for the ride. To keep your tree festive and pest-free, give it a good shake, inspect for critters, and vacuum up any strays. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your tree and its natural charm—minus the unexpected guests!