Birders and insect enthusiasts alike enjoy spotting rare and unusual species. In Texas, there are many fascinating bugs to discover, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service senior program specialist Wizzie Brown. Brown explains that the bugs people are interested in can vary based on the area they live in and their level of bug-watching activity. She also notes that personal preferences play a role in determining which insects individuals find most intriguing.
For many people, butterflies serve as a gateway bug into the world of insects. Brown describes butterflies as the insects that often spark initial interest and lead to a broader fascination with bugs. Following butterflies, some may become excited about spotting beautiful moths like hawk moths, also known as Sphinx moths. These moths mimic hummingbirds in their movements and are active during the daytime, making them popular among insect enthusiasts.
While butterflies and moths are appealing to many, Brown has her own list of top bugs to find in Texas. One of her favorites is the pale-bordered field cockroach, which she describes as a stunning insect with a dark grayish-black color and a creamy white border on its wings and body. Another intriguing bug on Brown’s list is the banana cockroach, also known as the Cuban cockroach, which boasts a beautiful pale green color and translucent wings.
In addition to these cockroaches, Brown is eager to spot a scorpionfly, a unique insect with an elongated abdomen resembling a scorpion tail. She finds the bright reddish-orange color of scorpionflies and their distinctive features fascinating. Another bug that caught Brown’s attention is the toad bug, which resembles a tiny toad and is commonly found on the shores of water bodies. She describes them as incredibly cute and loves observing them in their natural habitat.
Further on Brown’s list is the twisted wing parasite, a challenging bug to spot due to its small size and parasitic nature. These insects lay their eggs on other bugs and have twisted wings, making them a rare find for dedicated bug enthusiasts. Additionally, Brown mentions the snakefly, a relative of green lacewings, with a unique thorax expansion that resembles a neck. Finally, she highlights the tiger beetle, known for its bright metallic colors, long legs, and quick movements, making it a challenging bug to catch.
Overall, Texas offers a diverse range of bugs for enthusiasts to discover and admire. Whether you’re interested in butterflies, moths, cockroaches, or unique insects like scorpionflies and tiger beetles, there’s a bug waiting to be found in the Lone Star State. Next time you’re out exploring nature, keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures and see if you can spot any of Brown’s top bug recommendations.
