Insect of the week (January 19, 2026)
Our insect of the week for January 19, 2026 is the red admiral butterfly (Vanessa atalanta). It was described by Linnaeus in 1758. This species is known throughout temperate regions of North America including central Illinois, central America, North Africa, Europe and...
Insect of the week (January 12, 2026)
Our insect of the week for January 12, 2026 is my all time favorite central Illinois butterfly – the buckeye (Junonia coenia). It was described by Jacob Hübner in 1822. This species is known throughout the eastern United States. Adults are often found resting on...
Insect of the week (January 5, 2026)
As we start 2026, I thought it might be appropriate to focus on some of the more colorful butterflies found in central Illinois. Personally, I am already looking forward to spring and the chance to observe many more insects. Our insect of the week for January 5, 2026...
Peoria approximella (a moth named in New York for Peoria, IL). Photo of Michigan specimen courtesy Jim Vargo (used with permission).