As most of us grow up, we develop the opinion that “bugs are bad.” While bugs can be an annoyance in the home and garden, this isn’t a universal truth. Nearly every insect serves some purpose in the greater scheme of things. There are a few bugs that deserve special distinction though. We’ve highlighted four of the “good bugs,” or insects you should avoid killing, that benefit your life and world every day.
Ladybugs
One of the few insects that most children will pick up without question is truly a “good bug.” Ladybugs, with their red and black bodies, are a type of beetle. However, unlike many beetles, they do not damage your plants, but instead, help them grow by keeping aphids and other invasive insects at bay. Ladybugs are so well known as beneficial insects that you’ll often find them for sale in garden supply stores.
Damsel Bugs
Damsel bugs are not one type of bug but are actually a broad category of helpful insect that specializes in killing, and eating, many insects that wreak havoc on gardens and yards. Farmers love to see damsel bugs in the area as they know that many of the intrusive insects will be kept at bay. Learn to identify the common damsel bugs in your area and give them wide berth so that they can do your job of keeping the garden free of damaging pests. The benefits that these good bugs bring will pay off for years to come.
Honeybees
Yes, bees can be annoying. They buzz and may even sting. However, they offer a huge benefit to gardens by pollinating your plants. With bees, the key is to keep them attracted to areas away from your children and family–perhaps by adding more fragrant plants to the part of your garden furthest from the home. Teach your kids that bees are good bugs and shouldn’t be harmed unless they pose an immediate danger. Also, understanding the difference between bees and wasps can be a very important lesson for the whole family.
Soldier Beetles
Another beetle that can benefit you and your garden is the soldier beetle. This type of beetle is happiest when it is feeding on aphids as well as grasshopper eggs. Since aphids and grasshoppers are two bugs that can cause the greatest suffering to your garden, having soldier beetles around is certainly a good thing! Make sure you don’t step on these guys or use pest control measures that will damage them while they are completing their very important job.
If you want to make sure you’re not doing anything to detract from the good bugs too much but still keep those bad bugs at bay, working with a knowledgeable pest control firm is a must. Reach out to us at American Rat Control today and let us work with you to develop a pest control plan that keeps all your needs in mind. Our technicians are excited to help you!
