Bug Squad

We've been watching the almonds budding and blossoming since late January. They're in full bloom now, but a little ragged by the recent rain. California has some 750,000 acres of almonds, and it takes two hives per acre to pollinate them.

Just call it a case of identity theft at the Bohart Museum of Entomology. But wait! Before you ask "Is everything okay?" and suggest contacting law enforcement immediately, not to worry. This is a different case of identity theft. Insects! Camouflaged insects! Take the walking stick.

When you see the blow fly (below), what do you think? Well, that depends on who you are and what you do--or maybe your earliest negative/positive insect recollections.

The public, says entomologist Kris Godfrey, needs to become more aware of the threat of invasive species. And, she adds, we need to educate people and organizations about the incoming pests and pests that are already here.

Honey bee guru Eric Mussen talks a lot about the declining honey bee population. After all, he's served as the Extension apiculturist with the UC Davis Department of Entomology since 1976.