Types of Insects

Insects are the most numerous, and arguably the most dominant, form of life on earth.

This section provides some basic field identification tips for many common insects seen in fields, forests, and residential areas of the United States.

Entomologists commonly type insects as either beneficial insects or pests.

Bees and Wasps Bald-faced Hornet Black and Yellow Mud Dauber Bumblebees Cricket Hunter Honeybees Ichneumon Paper Wasps (Polistes) Tarantula Hawk Western Paper Wasp Dragonflies Aeshnidae - Darners Cordulegastridae - Spiketails Gomphidae - Clubtails Petaluridae - Petaltails Corduliidae - Emeralds Libellulidae - Skimmers Macromiidae - Cruisers Flies Bee Fly - Anthrax Blue Bottlefly Drone Fly Flesh Fly Hover Fly Longlegged Fly Robber Fly Small-headed Fly Soldier Fly Tachinid Flies Miscellaneous Insects Banana Slug Caddisfly Carpenter Ant Cicada Cinnebar Caterpillar Cricket Dobsonfly Earthworm Grasshopper Ladybug Praying Mantid Wolly Bear Caterpillar Yellow-spotted Millipede

Beneficial insects help humans, mostly in agriculture, by preying on other insects. Harmful insects are those that harm humans by transmitting disease, stinging, biting, or harming agriculture.

Many bees and wasps, for example, are considered beneficial insects, with a caveat. They are welcomed in gardens, their nests are not always welcomed on the front porch.

Dragonflies may look dangerous, however, they are popular beneficial insects that neither sting nor bite. The article Types of Dragonflies provides additional information.

Flies are commonly considered pests, although some species are beneficial. See Types of Flies for additional information

The listed miscellaneous insects currently do not fit into any specific theme. They present a mixed picture with respect to their relationship to humans. Many species of caterpillars and grasshoppers are considered pests. Others, such as earthworms, are considered beneficial.

The site also hosts different sections covering Types of Butterflies, Moths, and Types of Spiders.

People of all ages have been Collecting Insects for many ages.

The final couple of articles move the discussion away from identification, to other topics.

Dragonfly Facts

Fast facts about dragonflies.

Insect Cover Art
When you talk about rock and roll music, insects are usually not a big conversation starter.

Insect ID Quiz
Improve your insect identification skills with this quiz.

Swarming Locusts in the United States
Brief review of recent research.

Will Global Warming Help Honey Bees Dance?
This article discusses global warming and honey bee populations.

Yellowjackets and Paper Wasps
Tips for identifying yellowjackets and paper wasps in your yard.