Bugs (AKA Arthropods) of Your Backyard!

In this presentation, Matt Bertone will discuss the things that make arthropods arthropods (what even are they?) and talk about some of the major groups. He will highlight those that can be commonly found in North Carolina, including information about their identification and biology (the "who"s and "why"s of local critters). Although there are too many out there to discuss, Matt hopes to touch on the ones most people ask about.

Presenter: Dr. Matt Bertone

Director and Extension Associate, Plant Disease and Insect Clinic  (NC State University)

Matt Bertone is passionate about insects and other arthropods, as well as nature in general. He has been studying entomology most of his life and professionally for over 20 years. Matt is most interested in biodiversity and natural history of arthropods, especially taxonomy and evolution. He is the diagnostics expert for identifying arthropods in North Carolina and does so through the NC State Plant Disease and Insect Clinic. He also enjoys teaching about these animals to various audiences, in technical settings and as public outreach. Along with his passion for these creatures, he is also an avid macro photographer.

Presentation Slides

 

Additional Resources

Field Guide to Insects of North America, Eric Eaton and Kenn Kaufman
Insects: Their Natural History and Diversity, Stephen A. Marshall

Bugguide.net

Caterpillars of Eastern North America, David L. Wagner

Tracks & Sign of Insects and Other Invertebrates, Charley Eiseman & Noah Charney