All posts by David Albaugh

The Hackberry Emperor: A Shade-Loving Social Butterfly of North American Woodlands

July 31, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

Flitting with a graceful, gliding flight amidst the canopies and understories of hackberry trees across eastern and central North America is Asterocampa celtis, commonly known as the Hackberry Emperor. This relatively drab yet intriguing butterfly is less attracted to colorful flowers and more to tree sap, rotting fruit, and even carrion, making it a unique and often approachable resident of woodlands, river bottoms, and suburban areas where its host trees thrive.

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Insects

The Reddish-Brown Stag Beetle: A Forest Floor Architect

July 29, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

From the deciduous forests and woodlands of eastern North America emerges Lucanus capreolus, commonly known as the Reddish-Brown Stag Beetle or Eastern Stag Beetle. Recognized by its distinctive antler-like mandibles in males and its association with decaying wood, this fascinating insect plays a vital role in nutrient cycling, contributing to the health and vitality of forest ecosystems.

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Tarantula Genus Spotlight

The Mexican Red Rump: A Striking Weaver of the Americas

July 27, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

From the hot, arid to semi-arid regions spanning from Mexico south through Central America to Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, and even into parts of southern Florida (likely introduced), comes Tliltocatl vagans, universally known as the Mexican Red Rump Tarantula. Revered for its striking velvety black coloration accented by brilliant red abdominal hairs, and its generally docile yet defensive nature, this terrestrial species is a charismatic burrower and a staple in the tarantula hobby.

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Insects

A Jewel of the Rockies: Discover the Enchanting World of the May Natural History Museum

July 25, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes just south of Colorado Springs, the May Natural History Museum stands as a truly unique and utterly captivating destination. Affectionately known as the “Bug Museum” by generations of delighted visitors, this remarkable institution is far more than just a collection of insects; it’s a testament to passion, preservation, and the awe-inspiring diversity of the natural world.

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Tarantulas

The Brazilian Black Tarantula: A Velvet Beauty of the Pampas

July 23, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

From the expansive grasslands and open woodlands of southern Brazil and parts of Uruguay emerges one of the most sought-after and beloved tarantulas in the hobby – Grammostola pulchra, universally known as the Brazilian Black Tarantula, or sometimes the Brazilian Black. Revered for its striking, velvety black coloration, robust build, and exceptionally docile temperament, this terrestrial species is a true gem, making it an ideal ambassador for tarantulas and a favorite among enthusiasts.

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Insects

The Eastern Dobsonfly: A Fearsome Jawed Predator of Aquatic Realms

July 21, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

From the clear, oxygen-rich waters of streams and rivers across eastern North America emerges a truly formidable insect – Corydalus cornutus, commonly known as the Eastern Dobsonfly. While the adult is a short-lived, somewhat clumsy giant of the night, its larval form, the “hellgrammite,” is a fearsome aquatic predator whose intimidating appearance and powerful mandibles make it a legendary inhabitant of freshwater ecosystems and a prized bait among anglers.

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Buggy Book Reviews

Blossoming Enthusiasm: A Deep Dive into “Wildflowers of New England”!

July 19, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

“Wildflowers of New England” by Ted Elliman and the Native Plant Trust is an absolutely indispensable resource for anyone with an interest in the botanical wonders of this diverse region. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a casual hiker, a budding naturalist, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, this book will quickly become your trusted companion.

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Tarantula Genus Spotlight

The Rio Grande Gold Tarantula: A Jewel of the Texas Deserts

July 17, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

From the arid and semi-arid landscapes of the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, United States, comes Aphonopelma moderatum, popularly known as the Rio Grande Gold Tarantula. This striking terrestrial tarantula is highly regarded for its unique and beautiful coloration, combining golden hues with dark accents, making it one of the most visually distinctive members of the Aphonopelma genus found in the United States.

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Lepidoptera Life Cycles

The Global Wanderer: Unveiling Vanessa cardui, the Painted Lady

July 15, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

Soaring on tireless wings across continents and oceans, the painted lady, scientifically known as Vanessa cardui, is arguably the most widely distributed butterfly in the world. With its distinctive orange, black, and white patterns, and its remarkable ability to undertake epic migratory journeys, this resilient and adaptable species is a truly global phenomenon, captivating observers wherever it lands.

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Lepidoptera Life Cycles

The Great Spangled Fritillary: A Dazzling Jewel of North American Meadows

July 13, 2025 David Albaugh Leave a comment

Gliding with powerful, buoyant flight through sun-drenched meadows, open woodlands, and vibrant flower gardens across much of North America is Speyeria cybele, commonly known as the Great Spangled Fritillary. This large and striking butterfly, adorned with a kaleidoscope of orange and black, and notably brilliant silver spots on its underside, is a cherished sight, embodying the beauty and vitality of its grassland and forest-edge habitats.

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