Arthropod Adventures

In this podcast episode, Charleigh and I, delve into the ecological significance of houseflies. We highlight their crucial function as decomposers and pollinators, as well as their position in the food chain. Despite their advantages, we also warn about the health risks associated with houseflies and recommend throwing away any food they may have contaminated. We conclude the episo

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," Charleigh and I explore the fascinating world of the greenhouse millipede, Oxidus gracilis. We clarify the common misnomer "millipede" and discuss my species' origins in Asia and its accidental introduction to the United States. We cover physical traits, lack of eyesight, diet, habitat, and defense mechanisms. We also touch on the reproduc

In this episode of "The Pod Adventures Venture," I, Jesse Hurlburt, along with my co-host Charleigh Hurlburt, dive into the fascinating world of the American cockroach. We tackle its incredible resilience, and clarify its true origins from Africa, not America. We discuss its scientific name, Periplaneta Americana, and its preference for warm, humid climates. Charleigh and I examine

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," I, Jesse Hurlburt, along with my co-host Charleigh Hurlburt, dive into the fascinating world of the arctic bumblebee, Bombus polaris. We explore the bee's incredible adaptations that allow it to survive and flourish in the brutal arctic conditions, such as its ability to regulate its body temperature and its unique life cycle. The episode

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," I, Jesse Hurlburt, along with my co-host Charleigh Hurlburt, delve into the fascinating world of the water strider, commonly known as the water skater or Jesus bug. We explore the insect's unique characteristics, behaviors, and life cycle, highlighting its ability to glide effortlessly across water surfaces. As a bonus, we share an intrigu

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," I, Jesse Hurlburt, along with my co-host Charleigh, delve into the world of the black-legged tick. I share insights into its habitats, characteristics, life cycle, and the risks it poses to us humans, including disease transmission. We talk about the tick's scientific name, "Ixodes scapularis," its reliance on white-tailed deer, and its pl

Season 2 is just around the corner

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," I'm excited to introduce you to the spined micro thena spider. This little critter has a truly unique appearance, and I can't wait to share all the fascinating details with you. During my own encounter with this spider, I was able to identify it using the Seek app, which was a real game-changer. Let me tell you, this spider's spiky body is

In this podcast episode, we discuss the European mantis, an insect that was brought to the United States to help control gypsy moth caterpillars. Let me tell you about its appearance, hunting skills, and the important role it plays in our environment. I also have a personal story to share about a mantis egg sac hatching in my home, which really left a lasting impression on me. Towa

In this episode of "Arthropod Adventures," I will provide you with a detailed insight into the life of the black and yellow mud dauber, a fascinating solitary wasp species. Let's dive into their unique nesting habits, impressive hunting skills, and intriguing life cycle. Don't worry, these wasps are not a threat to us humans unless we provoke them. I would love to hear your thought