By Les Harrison
Wakulla County Extension Director

Summertime is bug time in Wakulla County.

The weather has provided enough rain for the bugs which depend on a supply of foliage and the temperatures have been ideal for a population explosion.

Stink bugs, leaf-footed bugs, grasshoppers, all sizes and colors of caterpillars and many more have been enjoying the lush and plentiful dining options.

More than one Wakulla County homeowner or gardener has been plagued by the sudden appearance of a hoard of hungry nuisances which are eyeing the menu choices at a residence.

Fortunately, nature has a way of eventually balancing all situations when left to its own devices.

With the increase of the plant eaters comes a surge in those insects which restrain the excess population.

One of the most easily recognized predator insects is the praying mantis. This beneficial insect is actually a family with multiple members, some of which have been introduced to Florida.

While there are more than 2,400 mantis members worldwide, Florida is home to 11.

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