Bugs by the Yard

Legume plant pests

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Legume crops are beans and peas, but also many wildflower species (think bluebonnets!).

Learn the other insects you may find on your legume crops, when to treat, how to treat, and how to avoid treating!

Fall Vegetable Planting Guide: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/fall-vegetable-gardening-guide/01t4x000004OfitAAC

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Nightshade Crops - Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Texans love to grow crops in the nightshade family - Solanaceous Crops. Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Learn what insects typically plague them!

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Squash Vine Borers

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Squash vine borers can be a major pain for gardeners. There isn't much you can do about them, but here are some suggestions.

Mentioned during the podcast, Kaolin Clay:

https://youtu.be/ZfmAm74Of6o?si=xBsj35HdAd8KGk8v

https://youtu.be/plsFdgvvc8s?si=UYtKXscyxJA4DQU0

https://youtu.be/V_oU5U9rSlU?si=daI8B6XTblqNzzSS

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Cucurbit pests

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Cucurbit crops are those veggies in the Cucurbitaceae family, or gourd family. This family includes squash, zucchini, pumpkins, cucumbers, watermelon, other melons and others.

Learn the insects you may find on your cucurbits, when to treat, how to treat, and how to avoid treating!

Cucurbit insects from Aggie Horticulture

https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/vegetable/problem-solvers/cucurbit-problem-solver/cucurbit-insects/

Fall Vegetable Planting Guide: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/fall-vegetable-gardening-guide/01t4x000004OfitAAC

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Cole crop insects part 2

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500

Cole crops are those veggies in the Brassica family - mustards, cabbage, broccoli, kale, lettuce, cauliflower and others.

They are generally grown during cooler weather and can have a number of insect issues. Learn the other insects you may find on your cole crops, when to treat, how to treat, and how to avoid treating!

Fall Vegetable Planting Guide: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/fall-vegetable-gardening-guide/01t4x000004OfitAAC

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Cole Crop Pests - Caterpillars

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Cole crops are those veggies in the Brassica family - mustards, cabbage, broccoli, kale, lettuce, cauliflower and others.

They are generally grown during cooler weather and can have a number of insect issues. Learn the common caterpillars you may find on your cole crops, when to treat, how to treat, and how to avoid treating!0

Fall Vegetable Planting Guide: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/fall-vegetable-gardening-guide/01t4x000004OfitAAC

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Stocking stuffers for bug lovers

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500

With our final episode of 2025, we talk about ideas for stocking stuffers for the bug lover in your life. Links below are provided as a springboard for ideas, not as an endorsement for any particular product.

Jeweler's loupe

https://rb.gy/9ue88a

Insect collecting containers

https://shorturl.at/GLbro

https://shorturl.at/iCSle

Craig Tracy Art

https://www.craigtracy.com/

Quick Reference Publishing Guides

https://www.quickreferencepublishing.com/

Insect Lego

https://shorturl.at/Sp6OP

Honey sticks

https://www.glorybee.com/honey/honeystix

Wildflower Seeds

https://seedsource.com/search.php?search_query=pollinator

Insect tree ornaments

https://h7.cl/1jIEv

Brass/ metal decorative insects

https://shorturl.at/ygbB9

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

How do insects overwinter?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Did you ever wonder where insects go in the winter? Or maybe you've wondered if we have a freeze if there will be no insects in the spring. This episode will discuss insect overwintering strategies as well as ways that you can help the insects in your yard.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Solitary and Social Insects Explained

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Insects display an array of sociality - from totally solitary to truly social. This episode dives into the differences in sociality.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Trapdoor Spiders

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Trapdoor spiders are a common, yet little known spider common to areas in Texas.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Whipscorpions a.k.a. Vinegaroons

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0500

It's October and that means we pull out the weird and wonderful- well, more weird than usual?- critters for conversation. This episode is all about whipscorpions, also known as vinegaroons.

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/vinegaroon/

https://www.amnh.org/explore/news-blogs/north-american-vinegaroon-species

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Boxelder bugs

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Prepare your home for boxelder bugs....find out what they are, why they may be a problem, and what to do to avoid or get rid of them.

https://www-aes.tamu.edu/files/2014/06/Boxelder-Bugs-and-Red-Shouldered-Bugs.pdf

https://agrilife.org/urban-ipm/2016/01/25/boxelder-bugs/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Fall Armyworms

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Conditions are right for a fall armyworm outbreak this fall. You may be on of the unlucky to see them! Learn what they are what you can do about them.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Yucca moths and yucca

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Yucca moths depend on yucca as for for their young, but yucca also depend on yucca moths for pollination. We'll talk about the mutualistic relationship.

https://tpwmagazine.com/archive/2011/apr/scout3/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Night Pollinators

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0500

There are a surprising number of night pollinators. This episode discusses the main moth pollinators that come out at night.

Brown patchy lawn? Listen to find out causes

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0500

It's the time of year where the lawn may not be looking the best in Texas, often brown patchy spots can appear. This episode we break down what may be some causes of brown patchy turf and what you can do to diagnose and resolve the problem.

Proper mowing practices - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/mowing-recommendations-for-warmseason-turfgrasses/01t4x000004OUiyAAG

Fertilizing - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/lawn-fertilization-for-texas-warmseason-grasses/01t4x000004OUgfAAG

Chinch bugs - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/chinch-bug-management-in-lawns/01t4x000004OUUwAAO

White grubs - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/white-grubs-in-texas-turfgrass/01t4x000004OUUZAA4

Large patch - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/how-to-diagnose-and-manage-large-patch-disease-in-warmseason-turfgrass/01t4x000004OfrgAAC

Take all patch - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/takeall-root-rot/01t4x000004OfrfAAC

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen Des Bles

What's Making Holes in My Lawn???

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0500

A common question we get is, "what is making those holes in my lawn??" While you may never know, learn what could potentially being making holes in the yard.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Where are All the Bugs?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

Ever notice that certain years or times of the year insects don't seem to be around and wonder "where are all the bugs?". You aren't the only one. Hear a conversation from the hosts on how they answer that question and where all the insects have gone!

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

June beetle or Junebug?

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Do you know the difference between a June beetle and a Junebug? Listen in to find out what constitutes a June beetle.

Publication on white grubs (includes management)

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/white-grubs-in-texas-turfgrass/01t4x000004OUUZAA4

Bugs by the Yard Turf pests episodes 1 & 2

https://bugs-by-the-yard.captivate.fm/search

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Honey by Honey Bees

Thu, 22 May 2025 06:00:00 -0500

This episode covers how honey bees collect honey, why, and how a beekeeper extracts it for our pleasure!

Beekeeping 101 Course - https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/beekeeping-101/01t4x000002ciQPAAY

Beekeeping Factsheets - http://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/global-search/beekeeping?c__results_layout_state=%7B%7D

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insects on succulents: prickly pear, agave, yucca

Thu, 08 May 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Wondering what that insect may be on your succulent plant? This episode will cover common ones seen in Texas.

Cochineal scale episode

https://bugs-by-the-yard.captivate.fm/episode/cochineal-scales

Pest of cacti publication

https://extensionentomology.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2018/09/Managing-insect-pests-of-cacti-B6215.pdf

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Texas structural termites

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0500

It's spring which means that termites are swarming. This episode covers common termites that can be associated with structures: native subterranean termites, formosan subterranean termites, and drywood termites.

AgriLife Publications on termites can be found here:

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/global-search/termite?c__results_layout_state=%7B%22page_number%22%3A1%2C%22refinements%22%3A%5B%7B%22nameOrId%22%3A%22Product_Type__c%22%2C%22type%22%3A%22DistinctValue%22%2C%22attributeType%22%3A%22Custom%22%2C%22values%22%3A%5B%22Publications%22%5D%7D%5D%7D

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

How to Deal With Fire Ants

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0500

Fire ants can be a real nuisance. Learn how to `best manage them in your yard.

Interview with Jonathan Consford

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Meet out new IPM Specialist in El Paso, Jonathan Consford. He is tasked with pecans, cotton, and anything else that comes his way!

Contact information for Jonathan

https://entomology.tamu.edu/people/consford-jonathan/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Centipedes and millipedes

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Do you know the differences between centipedes and millipedes? While both are beneficial animals, they are beneficial in different ways. Learn how to tell these two groups apart and find out how they can help you in your garden.

AgriLife publication on centipedes & millipedes

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/centipedes-and-millipedes/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insect (and other arthropods) mating

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Continuing our "Bugs in love" series with information on insect mating.

BBC Earth video on mantid mating

https://youtu.be/Os3OBJSlpUc?si=WF4nlKLa2FgzANZ-

Canadian Museum of Nature video on insect/ arthropod mating

https://youtu.be/ZCbV1yMhFmw?si=hGks7w15UM0symWB

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insect Attraction - How Insects Find Mates

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Love is in the air! Literally for many insects trying to attract mates. Learn how insects find mates and what strategies they use - weird, odd, and brutal - to lure their loved ones to them.

How do pyrethroids work?

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500

This episode covers pyrethroids: what are they? how do they differ from pyrethrum and pyrethrins? how do they kill insects?

Video on how pyrethroids work

https://youtu.be/8X31U9xyqDw?si=S-p7VkIRzAE2dEbk

EPA pyrethrins & pyrethroids

https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/pyrethrins-and-pyrethroids-reregistration-and-labeling

IRAC Mode of Action

https://irac-online.org/mode-of-action/classification-online/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insect Growth Regulators

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Insect growth regulators are a class of insecticide that disrupts the insect's growth and development. Specific to arthropods without any impact on mammals, birds, reptiles, etc, this is a host specific (to arthropods) option for pest control for several insects. Learn what an insect growth regulator is and how it acts on the insect.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Holiday gift guide: entomology books

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0500

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! We're back with our 2024 entomology gift giving ideas episode. This year we decided to talk books!

Books recommended:

My First 100 Bug Words by Chris Ferrie and Lindsay Dale-Scott

A Sting in the Tale by Dave Coulson

Insects of North America by John C. Abbott & Kendra Abbott

Common Insects of Texas and Surrounding States by John C. Abbott & Kendra Abbott

The Goddard Guide to Arthropods of Medical Importance by Gail Miriam Moraru & Jerome Goddard II

Essential Entomology by George C. McGavin, Leonidas-Romanos Davranoglou, et al.

Borror and DeLong's Introduction to the Study of Insects (7th edition) by by Norman Johnson and Charles Triplehorn

Fireflies, Glow-worms, and Lightning Bugs: Identification and Natural History of the Fireflies of the Eastern and Central United States and Canada by Lynn Frierson Faust

The Bees in Your Backyard by Joseph S. Wilson & Olivia Messinger Carril

Amazing Arachnids by Jillian Cowles

Wasps of North America by Heather Holm

Six-legged Sex: The Erotic Lives of Bugs by James K. Wangberg

Stocking Stuffers – any laminated pamphlets from Quick Reference Publishing

Bonus Non-Fiction book: Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce

Logo by Natalie Cervang in the Tale, Dave Coulsontes

Music by Owen DesBles

How Mosquitoes Feed and Repellents Work

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0500

No one likes a mosquito, but hopefully you can appreciate the intricacies and complex nature that mosquitoes find hosts and use their mouthparts. Also discussed are repellents and why some work and others don't.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Multicolored Asian ladybird beetles: friend or foe...or both?

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500

You know them. You love/hate them. It's time to talk Asian ladybird beetles.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Other resources:

https://extension.umn.edu/nuisance-insects/multicolored-asian-lady-beetles

https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/multicolored_asian_lady_beetle.htm

https://www.ars.usda.gov/oc/br/lbeetle/index/

Mites associated with humans

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Find out what mites can become associated with humans and which ones can survive on humans. We talk about what to do in various instances and how you can track down where mites are located for management.

Common Insect and Mite Pests of Humans

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/common-insect-and-mite-pests-of-humans/01t4x000004OUV1AAO

Common External Parasites of Backyard Poultry

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/common-external-parasites-in-backyard-poultry/01t4x000004OxmeAAC

Biting mites

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/others/ent-3009/

Diagnosing Mysterious "Bug Bites"

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/biting-stinging/others/ent-3006-2/

What is a Sticky Trap

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/ipm/what-is-a-sticky-trap/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Harvestmen and Daddy Long Legs

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Harvestmen, daddy long legs, cellar spiders or Opiliones are long legged arachnids that we all probably know and love or fear. Learn a little about the lore of harvestmen, their lifecycle, what they actually eat and if they are really venemous.

Interview with Dr. Kyle Slusher - AgriLife Pecan, Viticulture & Fruit Specialist

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we talk with Dr. Kyle Slusher, AgriLife Entomology's new Pecan, Viticulture, and Fruit Specialist.

https://entomology.tamu.edu/people/slusher-kyle/

eddie.slusher@ag.tamu.edu

https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/2024/07/03/agrilife-extension-adds-pecan-viticulture-and-fruit-pest-management-specialist-in-stephenville/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Interview with Garett Slater - AgriLife Apiculture Specialist

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Hear from one of Texas A&M AgriLife & A&M Department of Entomology's newest addition - Dr. Garett Slater and Apiculture Specialist leading the new Apiculture Program for Texas. Learn his goals for the program, research he plans to do, educational outreach, and some interesting facts about beekeeping and honey bees you probably didn't know!

Apiculture Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564253723033

Texas Beekeepers Association - https://texasbeekeepers.org/

Beekeeping 101 Courses - https://agriliferegister.tamu.edu/website/78795/

Tawny Crazy Ants

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Tawny Crazy Ants are an invasive and very pesky species of ant. Not found in all areas of Texas and still relatively new for even pest management professionals. Learn the ins and outs of TCA, how to ID them, who they get confused for, and what to do if you end up with an infestation.

Fleas

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Fleas are a common summertime pest, especially with those who have companion animals. This episode, we discuss how to identify and treat for fleas as well as the diseases they vector.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen Des Bles

Peridomestic cockroaches

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Peridomestic?! What's that? Peridomestic is when something lives in or around humans. So this episode, we're talking common cockroaches that you may run into inside or around your home: American, Smokybrown, Turkestan, and German.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Red harvester ants

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Have you seen these large reddish-brown ants? ...or maybe you have seen the colonies where they clear out vegetation? This episode we'll discuss how to identify these ants, their biology, and why you may want to leave them alone.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

AgriLife Learn Publication on red harvester ants

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/red-harvester-ants/01t4x000004OUUtAAO

TPWD Horned Lizard Watch Report

https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_rp_w7000_1442/habitat/

Ant wiki information

https://www.antwiki.org/wiki/Pogonomyrmex_barbatus

TPWD Texas Horned Lizard information

https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/thlizard

San Antonio Zoo horned lizard reintroduction program

https://sazoo.org/conservation/texas-horned-reintroduction-project/

Webbing in trees? Try fall webworms

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Have you been seeing webbing covering branches in your trees and shrubs? If so, you may want to open the webbing and see if you have fall webworms. In this episode, we discuss how to identify webworms and possible management strategies.

Show notes:

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension - Fall Webworm Free Publication

Texas A&M Forest Service - Forest Health: Fall Webworm

Field Guide to Common Texas Insects - Fall Webworm

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Emerald Ash Borer - a new pest?

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0500

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle that is destructive to Ash trees in North America and can be found in Texas. Check out this episode to learn more about ways to prevent human-mediated spread, and steps you can take to protect your Ash trees.

Texas A&M Forest Service EAB webpages:

EAB Hotline Number: 1-866-322-4512

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

How do insects communicate?

Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:00 -0500

Insects communicate in a variety of ways using various types of cues. Listen to find out more about how it is done.

Check out this neat website on the "Songs of Insects":

https://songsofinsects.com/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Hairy Caterpillars - Saltmarsh, Eastern Buckmoth & American Dagger

Thu, 09 May 2024 16:00:00 -0500

Saltmarsh and other hairy caterpillars are common across Texas this year.

Show notes:

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension - Saltmasrh Caterpillars

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Pest insects on roses

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0500

This episode covers typical pest insects that may be found on roses.

Show notes:

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Honey Bee Swarms

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 07:30:00 -0500

The group talks about what a honey bee swarm actually is and what it means to the colony and to the homeowner.

Texas Apiary Inspection Service list of bee removers - https://txbeeinspection.tamu.edu/bee-removal/

Bee Culture Magazine Article - https://www.beeculture.com/swarm-initiation-a-nurse-bee-hypothesis/#:~:text=This%20quorum%20of%20nurse%20bees,that%20initiates%20the%20swarming%20process.&text=In%20the%20Biology%20of%20the,to%20establish%20a%20new%20colony.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Periodical Cicada Broods 19 & 13

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500

2024 is a big year when it comes to periodical cicadas with TWO broods emerging in the United States. Illinois seems to be the place to be with both broods in the state and some areas with overlap. This episode will cover information on both periodical cicadas as well as the annual cicadas that we have in Texas.

Show notes:

University of Connecticut - The 2024 Periodical Cicada Emergence

US Forest Service - USDA

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Mason bees...a great native pollinator!

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we cover information about mason bees, including the blue orchard bees. These bees are wonderful native pollinators that you can attract to your landscape.

Check out these additional resources for more information!

https://www.tcmastergardeners.org/mason-bees/

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/2021/06/17/the-native-mason-bee/

https://txbeeinspection.tamu.edu/mason-bees/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 07:00:00 -0500

Crape myrtles are the most commonly planted ornamental trees in our landscape and a scale threatens to take away some of the beauty of your tree. Learn what the group thinks of this scale, how to identify it, and what options are available for management.

https://extensionentomology.tamu.edu/insects/crapemyrtle-bark-scale/

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/files/2010/05/EHT-049-Crape-myrtle-bark-scale.pdf

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Mode of Action of Insecticidal Soaps and Horticultural Oils

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we cover how insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils work and why it's not a great idea to substitute household products for pesticides.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Gift ideas for the entomologist in your life

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Do you have an entomophile in your life? If so, this episode can help you with possible gift ideas! Also make sure to check out the links below.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Wizzie's suggestions:

Jewelers loupe - 30x + 60x plus light (put that in a google search)

Clip on macro lens set for camera phone (google "smartphone macro lens set)

Books

-Common Insects of Texas and Surrounding States by John C. Abbott & Kendra Abbott

-The Bees in Your Backyard: A Guide to North America's Bees by Joseph S. Wilson & Olivia Messinger Carril

-Butterflies of Houston and Southeast Texas by John Tveten & Gloria Tveten

-Caterpillars of Eastern North America: A Guide to Identification & Natural History by David Wagner

-Six legged Sex: The Erotic Lives of Bugs by James K. Wangberg

Instagram artists

Mollyburgessdesigns designer cloth spiders, insects, and bats (find on instagram or etsy as "MollyBurgessDesigns")
Ringgoldnicole (Nicole Ringgold) silversmith...amazing arthropod work & other stuff (website: nicoleringgold.com)
sean_goddard_insects insects out of glass, copper tubing, etc. (website: seangoddardinsects.com)
vetropod (Wesley Fleming) lampwork arthropods (website: www.vetropod.com/shop)
fromhandsof.sjr pottery with slip painted arthropods (website: fromhandsofsjr.ca)
bymikelibby arhtopods out of various objects (website: insectlabstudio.com/works/)

Leaf Cutter Ants

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 03:30:00 -0500

Leaf cutter ants are a fascinating, although irritating ant to find in the landscape. If you don't have them, you need to listen to again an appreciation for them. If you have them, learn more about their biology and habits so you can better understand how to treat them!

Cole Crop Pests

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 04:45:00 -0500

Growing some cole crops this fall? Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale or others? Learn the most common pests that will plague those plants and how you can avoid losing them to the bugs.

Active hunting spiders

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we cover some of the active hunting spiders that can be found in Texas including ground spiders, wolf spiders, fishing spiders, and tarantulas.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Ambush Spiders

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0500

Ambush spiders are those who sit and wait on plants, flowers or in web funnels to wait for their prey before jumping out to catch them. They include some important agricultural biological control agents, beautiful colors, and interesting specimens.

Orbweavers

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 07:00:00 -0500

Orbweavers are one of the largest groups of spiders. They are unique, often large, and quite beautiful!

Jumping spiders

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Jumping spiders are possibly the cutest spiders on the planet with their large eyes that look at you like an anime character. This episode will talk about stuff that you may not know about these cute little spiders.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

The Pesticide Episode

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 00:30:00 -0500

Pesticide is often a word that people don't like to hear. Learn what a pesticide truly is, the history of pesticides, and what the hosts think of it's use.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Thrips

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Thrips can show up in the landscape, especially if you like growing roses. Listen to find out if or when you need to be concerned.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Unusual bugs in the landscape

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Listen to find out about some unusual bugs you may come across in the landscape.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Chiggers

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0500

It's summer; it's hot; it's time for chiggers.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Night Insects

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0500

This week, the cast talks about some of their favorite insects that are active at night!

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Hammerhead Worms

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 02:00:00 -0500

Hammerhead worms may be news to you, but they have been in Texas for over 100 years. Learn how to identify them, some interesting facts, how to manage them, and why these entomologists don't think you should panic if you come across one.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Decomposers

Thu, 25 May 2023 09:00:00 -0500

We're continuing with our beneficial arthropods series and covering decomposers.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insects play a crucial role in the breakdown and recycling of organic materials. We also utilize this to our benefit! How many insects have you seen in your compost pile?

Spring pests in the veggie garden

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:00:00 -0500

This spring has been really busy and I realized that I had a brain fart and posted this episode on our sister podcast Unwanted Guests. While some of you may have already listened to it as you may listen to both, I wanted to post it here where it belongs for those of you who may not tune into the other podcast.

So here it is...the missing spring pests in the veggie garden episode....sorry it's late in coming.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Be sure to check out these resources for additional information on garden pests!

https://travis-tx.tamu.edu/about-2/horticulture/edible-gardens-for-austin/vegetable-gardening-in-austin/texas-vegetable-garden-insects-field-guide/

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/landscape/

Assassins of the Insect World - Predators and Parasitoids

Thu, 11 May 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Learn more about the beneficial insects that often are overshadowed by pest species. Remember, most insects are not pests (some estimates are less than 7%!) Parasitoids and predators are some of the groups that we actually benefit from as they help mitigate pest populations.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Be sure to check out this Youtube video for more information on parasitoids! Truly a wild group of insects that take reproductive mechanisms to the extreme. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jST12cyPx98&t=168s

Insect metamorphosis

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0500

We're going back to the basics with this episode and covering insect metamorphosis.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

For more information on insect metamorphosis, visit: https://travis-tx.tamu.edu/2023/01/23/insect-life-cycles-by-wizzie-brown/

Fire ants and community wide management

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Now is the perfect time to treat for red-imported fire ants. You can either treat your yard individually or work with your neighbors to create a community-wide management program.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

For general information about red-imported fire and biology, visit: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/red-imported-fire-ant/

For more information on community-wide management programs and contact information, visit: https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-local/community-fire-ant-management/

Pros and cons of spring garden prep

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Spring is creeping in and many people's thoughts are turning to getting back outside and working in the garden. This episode, we'll talk about spring garden preparation and why or may or may not want to do it.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Crane flies...the Texas groundhog

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500

We all think that crane flies are the harbinger of spring. Listen in to find out more.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Links for more information and to view pictures of crane flies:

1) https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/crane-fly/

2) https://citybugs.tamu.edu/2016/03/15/crane-flies/

Our favorite insects

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we answer the dreaded question...."what is your favorite insect?"

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Molly's Favorites:

Fire ants: https://fireant.tamu.edu/manage/faq/

Honey bees: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/honey-bee/

Praying mantis: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/praying-mantis/

Zebra Heliconian: https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/databases/butterflies/butterfly-gallery/pages/Lantana9.html and for more information, visit: https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Heliconius-charithonia

Wizzie's Favorites:

Pale-bordered field cockroach: https://landscapeipm.tamu.edu/what-is-ipm/ipm-concepts/pest-identification/good-bug-bad-bug/neither/cockroaches/

Cuban cockroach: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/120830-glowing-cockroaches-bugs-science-animals

Jumping spiders: You can download our Texas spiders publication here: https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/spiders/01t4x000004OUUuAAO and if you want to enjoy some ADORABLE photos, check out Thomas Shahan's flickr account here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/opoterser/albums/with/72157629202125460

Bryant's Favorites:

Dobsonfly: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/dobsonfly/

Snakefly: Check out this awesome publication: https://lacewing.tamu.edu/neuropterida/neur_bibliography/edoc12/lyu2018ref18033-19522.pdf and click here for some general photos: https://elp.tamu.edu/ipm/bugs/order-raphidioptera/

Mantidfly: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/mantidfly/

Scorpionfly: https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/scorpionfly/

2023 Insect Predictions

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500

Hear all about our predictions for this year's insects! Weather definitely plays a roll, and weather has been consistently warm and dry and we have some ideas for what you might be seeing this year.

Send us a comment or topic idea! Email us at BugsByTheYard@gmail.com

Image by Natalie Cervantes. Music by Owen DesBles.

House plant pests

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0500

The weather is turning colder, so prepare to move those plants indoors, but make sure you don't bring any pests in with them. This episode tells you what to look for on house plants and plants that come indoors over winter.

Whitefly:

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/silverleaf-whitefly/

Scales:

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/wax-scales/
chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2011/03/scale.pdf

Mealybugs:

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/citrus-mealybug/

Roaches:

https://citybugs.tamu.edu/factsheets/household/cockroaches/
https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/cockroach-biology-and-management/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Galls

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Listen in to find out what those weird growths on your oak tree (or other plants) are and what causes them to grow.

Paper wasps

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Love 'em or hate 'em, tune in to find out more about these fascinating animals.

See these two web pages for more information:

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/paper-wasp/

https://txbeeinspection.tamu.edu/public/bee-identification/paper-wasp/

Follow this link to download our 6 page publication!

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/paper-wasps-yellowjackets-and-solitary-wasps/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Lycaeindae, the gossamer-winged butterflies

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode we wrap up our butterfly series with information on hairstreaks, blues, coppers, and harvesters.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Pieridae, whites and sulphurs

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0500

First off, meet our NEW colleague...Bryant McDowell! Then stay to listen and learn about the butterfly family Pieridae, commonly known as the whites and sulfur.

Here are some great photos to check out! https://elp.tamu.edu/ipm/bugs/family-pieridae/

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Nymphalidae Brushfoot butterflies part two

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode we continue on with the brushfoot butterfly family Nymphalidae.

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/butterfly-gardening/01t4x000004PDZAAA4

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Nymphalidae, the brushfoot butterflies part 1

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0500

In this episode we begin to discuss butterflies in the family Nymphalidae, the brushfoots.

https://agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/s/product/butterfly-gardening/01t4x000004PDZAAA4

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Milkweed butterflies

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Listen in to learn about the milkweed butterflies that are found in the United States: monarchs, queens, soldiers, and tropical milkweed butterflies.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Swallowtail Butterflies

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Listen in to find out more about the common swallowtail butterflies that can be found in Texas.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Fireflies / lightningbugs and light communication

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0500

The perfect insect for conjuring up summer nights. Listen in to discover more about the fascinating life of fireflies.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Insect sounds of summer

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we'll talk about the ways that insects communicate by using sound.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Solitary wasps in Texas

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0500

The previous episode covered information on the common social wasps in Texas, so we decided to round out the topic and cover solitary wasps as well.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Social wasps - paper wasps, yellowjackets

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0500

This episode we'll talk about the two main groups of social wasps found in Texas: paper wasps and yellowjackets. ....and yes, we touch on hornets as well....

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Spittlebugs

Thu, 19 May 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Have you ever wondered what the spit stuff is that you see on plants? If so, listen in to find all about the insects that create the "spit".

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen Des Bles

Oak tree caterpillars

Thu, 05 May 2022 09:00:00 -0500

There are a bunch of caterpillars that are emerging/ falling out of oak trees right now (springtime in Texas). Listen in to find out what caterpillars you may be seeing and what or if you should do anything about them.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Honey bee products

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Honey bees are known for being pollinators, but they also provide us with products. Honey is the most popular of these products, but listen into to find out what else they provide.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Silk and silkworms

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Listen to find out more about the history of silk and the insects that create this natural fabric.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

What is entomophagy?

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Do you know what entomophagy is? I'll give you a hint....ento is base for insect and pahgy is base for eating. Tune into this episode to find out more!

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Cochineal scales

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Cochineal scales are a common insect, sometimes thought to be a pest, on prickly pear cactus. Tune in to find out more about why these insects are used to create a bright red dye called carmine, their history, and uses.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Popworms: soldier fly larvae and composting

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Are you looking for a new way to compost your kitchen scraps? Soldier fly larvae may be just thing for you. This episode has guest Dr. Jonathan Cammack talking with us about Popworms and soldier flies.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Texas leaf cutter ants

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Texas leaf cutter ants are fascinating insects but can become a problem if they invade your landscape. Listen to find out more about these fascinating animals!

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Mexican Honey Wasps

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0500

A wasp that makes honey? YES! Listen in to find out more about these totally cute and wonderful insects.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Winter insect shelter

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Tune in to find out what you can do to help create a welcoming habitat in your yard for overwintering insects.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Fall Garden Prep to Reduce Spring Insects

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Fall is a great time to begin planning your spring garden AND to work on reducing the pests that might want to much on the spring garden. Tune in to find out what you can do now to reduce spring insect problems.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Venomous spiders of Texas

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0500

If you have arachnophobia, it may not matter if a spider is venomous or not. All spiders are predators and therefore beneficial, so listen to find out what spiders in Texas you need to watch out for.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Scorpions

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Did you know that scorpions are arachnids and are related to spiders? Learn more about scorpions and what to do about them in this episode.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Snout butterflies

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0500

If you live in Central Texas, you may look forward to years when snout butterflies can be seen trailing through the skies by the thousands....or you could be someone who dreads having to wash butterfly carcasses off your car regularly. Whichever you are, tune in to find out more about these fascinating butterflies and what they are doing.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Cricket season

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0500

It's that time of year for a possible cricket season to hit in Texas. While we see crickets every year, some years there are huge populations that turn into quite a nuisance. Tune into to find out more.

Logo by Natalie Cervatnes

Music by Owen DesBles

Grasshoppers and katydids

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0500

It's that time of year when grasshoppers seem to be eating EVERYTHING in your landscape. Tune in to discover how to tell grasshoppers from katydids and what you can do to manage these critters

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Stink bugs and Leaffooted bugs

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Are you wondering what those bugs are on your tomatoes? ....or peppers...or eggplant.... This episode will cover two common culprits- stink bugs and leaffooted bugs.

Logo by Natalie Cervantes

Music by Owen DesBles

Spider Mites

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Are you seeing webbing on your plants but no spiders? You may need to take a closer look for spider mites. While related to spiders, spider MITES are a different beast. Listen to learn what to look for and what you can do about them.

https://texasinsects.tamu.edu/spider-mite/

Podcast art by: Natalie Cervantes