May I ask, what has been your favorite bug so far? And do you know any cool facts about them?

(Aka what's your favorite kind of bug? Or animal in general)

One of my favorite species is Acherontia atropos, which is one of the three species of death’s head hawkmoth in the Acherontia genus.

Photo by mazzeip

Acherontia species are interesting because they make squeaking sounds from a pharynx by gulping in air, which vibrates a flap in the throat to make the noise. Most bugs create sound by rubbing body parts together.

Photo by henrydelange

Their noises are either defensive or meant to mimic queen bee noises (piping), since they love to raid bee hives and steal honey. In fact, they’re super specialized to do this, and are resistant to bee stings, and even mimic bee scents so they seem like just another colony member. Sneaky sneaky :)

Photo by stefanodirektor