New York Almanack

History, Natural History & the Arts

insects

Science Behind Our Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Outbreak

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gypsy moth caterpillar by Karla SalpThis spring, there has been larger-than-usual gypsy moth populations and leaf damage in several parts of New York State. Gypsy moths are non-native but are naturalized, meaning they will always be around in our forests.

Their populations spike in numbers roughly every 10 to 15 years, but these outbreaks are usually ended by natural causes such as disease and predators. Because of this, the State typically does not manage them and does not provide funding for treating gypsy moths on private property. [Read more…] about Science Behind Our Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Outbreak

Insectivorous Plants: Sundews

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TOS_SundewIn 1860, a year after publication of his seminal work on the origin of species, Charles Darwin wrote to a friend, “At the moment, I care more about Drosera than the origin of all the species in the world.”

Darwin maintained a lifelong fascination with carnivorous plants, including members of the genus Drosera, collectively called sundews. His research into these fascinating species led to the 1875 publication of Insectivorous Plants, which remains a major reference work today. [Read more…] about Insectivorous Plants: Sundews

New York Insects: Paper Wasps

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young paper wasp queen courtesy Wikimedia user AlvesgasparWhile working around the home this summer, it is not unusual to notice the papery nest of a wasp tucked under the eaves, hidden behind a loose shutter, or placed in some other protected spot. While an encounter with this type of structure may temporarily disrupt a painting project or repair work, such a sanctuary is vital to the summer success of these familiar yellow and black insects, and should be left alone if at all possible as wasps play a role in helping to control the populations of numerous insects, spiders and other bugs. [Read more…] about New York Insects: Paper Wasps

Bug Season: Biting Midges

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biting_midgesA screened-in porch is an ideal place to relax on a summer evening. The tight, wire mesh that covers the walls allows the enjoyment of nature’s unique fragrances and wildlife sounds without the harassment of mosquitoes and other flying nocturnal pests.

However, during the early parts of summer, there is one bug that can detract from the ambiance. Biting midges are small enough to pass through traditional screens, allowing them access to any individual wanting to enjoy the evening. [Read more…] about Bug Season: Biting Midges

Flight Control Science of Flies

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TOS_FlyHalteresOn sunny, warm days, house flies hatch and buzz around homes and offices. These flies complete aerobatic stunts that easily evade human efforts at swatting or shooing. That aerial agility, so frustrating to the would-be swatters, is thanks to a pair of highly specialized sense organs called halteres. [Read more…] about Flight Control Science of Flies

When & Where NYS Can Expect The Next Periodical Cicadas

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Cicada by Jon YuschockThis year, entomologists predict large populations of cicadas to appear across 15 states for a few weeks beginning around mid-May. This “Brood X” (the Great Eastern Brood) is a periodical group of cicadas that emerge every 17 years.

New York State is at the most northern extent of the range of Brood X and in recent emergences, only Long Island has been affected, usually in low numbers or non-existent.  While New York State will most likely not see many Brood X cicadas this year, neighboring states to the south and west could see billions. [Read more…] about When & Where NYS Can Expect The Next Periodical Cicadas

Rivers, Wetlands and Floodwaters

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TOS_wetlandsOne spring, following heavy rain, I visited the Saint Michael’s College Natural Area in Vermont hoping to capture exciting photographs of the rushing Winooski River. Rather than raging floodwaters, however, I found the river’s floodplain was efficiently – and slowly – accommodating the onslaught of rainwater. [Read more…] about Rivers, Wetlands and Floodwaters

Another Invasive: Samurais and Stinkers

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brown marmorated stink bug courtesy Wikimedia user HectonichusIn general I’m rather positive about immigrants, but not the six-legged kind. Many of the insects which have made themselves at home here over the past few decades show up with interesting and colorful names like emerald ash borer, velvet longhorned beetle, and spotted lantern fly. Amusing monikers or not, this is a ménagerie of mischief-makers, and one of the more recent arrivals is quite a foul character indeed. [Read more…] about Another Invasive: Samurais and Stinkers