Pirate Bugs Illinois !link! Now

Some common species of pirate bugs found in Illinois include:

If you garden in Illinois—whether in Chicago’s community plots, the corn-country suburbs, or near the Shawnee National Forest—you’ve likely seen them. Small, black-and-white, and no bigger than a poppy seed, minute pirate bugs (genus Orius ) are among the most beneficial insects you can host. Don’t let the swashbuckling name fool you; these bugs are ruthless to pests but completely harmless (and helpful!) to people and plants. pirate bugs illinois

They land on humans and "probe" the skin with their short, needle-like beaks to determine if the surface is a viable food source. Identification & Lifecycle Some common species of pirate bugs found in

Forced out of dry fields, the bugs move into residential backyards and gardens in search of food and moisture. They land on humans and "probe" the skin