This past weekend, while playing Two Truths and a Lie, I mentioned that I had held a baby alligator (which is true). My friend followed up by saying she had held a spider (which is a lie). Given that she is scared of spiders, I understood why she would never purposely pick one up, but I was surprised to learn that she had never held a spider at all. I had assumed that rescuing a creepy crawly insect from the playground was a universal childhood experience, but it seems I was mistaken.
While I’ll likely never pick up a tarantula for fun, I would like to say a few words in defense of the miscategorized and underappreciated bug community.
Firstly, bugs are fascinating. Seriously, some of the abilities bugs possess are astonishing, especially when imagined at human size. Take, for example, the Emerald Cockroach Wasp, which is not only stunning but also powerful. These small creatures can paralyze and control cockroaches. Their venom blocks neurological transmitters in their prey, effectively stopping the fight-or-flight response.
Now, I realize I may have just instilled an irrational fear of Emerald Cockroach Wasps in my peers, so let’s consider Dragonflies instead. These insects are very common around the world and are among the most effective predators in the insect class. Each of their eyes contains thousands of lenses, allowing them to see nearly 360 degrees around them. Their four wings can move independently, enabling them to hover, fly backward and change directions instantly. Furthermore, these bugs are physically impressive. They migrate like other species, traveling thousands of miles and even crossing oceans. It’s no wonder they have “dragon” in their name.
Beyond their abilities, many insects are quite cute. Moths come in various colors, sizes, and wing shapes. My favorite is the White Witch, an elusive moth with a wingspan of nearly a foot. However, the Luna and Rosy Maple Moths have certainly captured the internet’s admiration with their bright colors and adorable faces. From bumblebees to ladybugs, there are plenty of impressive and lovable bugs, not to mention their important roles in the ecosystem.
Just because some bugs have intimidating appearances or aggressive behaviors doesn’t mean the entire species should be judged the same way.
