Current Phoenix Weather:
advertisement
10 April 2023
There are times when Arizona feels like the Australia of the American Southwest. Venomous scorpions, snakes, and lizards, spikey plants, and, to top it off, we have beetles that can burn your skin! On the plus side, the “master blister beetle,” also known as Lytta magister, is easy to spot.
Usually, two to three inches long, these beetles have a nice mix of black and orange. If you do find it, it is likely to be in the spring when the brittlebush, a very common desert shrub, is in bloom. Several dozen beetles may hang from the flower stalks of a bush temporarily, hosting a small band of beetles.
When you find master blister beetles, you are unlikely to pick up big, black, and orange ones. The name “blister” refers to the beetle’s ability to pop a blood vessel in a leg’s joint, causing yellowish blood to ooze out. Beetles only do this when they are upset. Not only does the blood smell terrible, but it’s also dangerous, causing painful blisters on the skin. It contains cantharidin, a chemical classified as “super-toxic.” When a bird or mouse tries to eat a master blister beetle, it will get a mouthful of disgusting blood, which might make the animal think twice.
Because master blister beetles are chemically protected from their enemies, they can afford to be so conspicuous. Birds and other predators are warned to stay away from them because they are protected. Luckily, you don’t have to hold them in your hand to enjoy seeing them in their brittlebush groups.
Blister beetle blood can cause swelling and painful blisters within 24 hours. Do not panic if you come into contact with one of these bugs. In about a week, the welts and blisters will heal.
The area should be washed daily with warm soapy water and treated with a topical steroid or antibiotic. The swelling and pain can also be eased by applying a cold compress. If the toxin gets into your eyes, seek medical attention.
Clothing in contact with blister beetles should also be washed since their blood can soak into the material.
Beetles grow so large and sport bright colors because of their toxic blood. These big bugs are not to be messed with by predators! When you play or hike outside, keep an eye out for blister beetles. Their size and coloration make them easy to spot, so give them a wide berth. Blister beetles can be gently removed by blowing them off your skin. Then, rinse the area with water once the beetle is gone.
Keep your eyes on the trails, and enjoy these beetles from a distance!
advertisement
Arizona is currently experiencing a period of remarkable growth. From adding jobs and increasing its population to welcoming more businesses, the state is solidifying its place as one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. Arizona’s transformation is not just a short-term trend; it’s a testament to strategic planning, smart policy-making, and an influx of motivated individuals looking to make Arizona their home. Here’s a closer look at why Arizona is on the rise. advertisement Booming Job Growth in Arizona In the last 10 years, Arizona added more than 380,000 new jobs, with the state’s job growth ranking fifth in
Arizona is home to an incredibly diverse range of wildlife, and the rich ecosystem faces many challenges, with habitat loss being the most pressing issue, leading to the endangerment of species across the state. Arizona currently has 71 endangered and threatened species, and efforts to protect these species are more essential than ever. Habitat Loss and the Impact on Arizona’s Wildlife Severe drought and climate change are exacerbating habitat loss in Arizona. In addition, non-native diseases and invasive species are further disrupting the delicate balance of Arizona’s ecosystems. These factors have left many of the state’s native species struggling to
Mesa, Arizona, has become the latest city in the Phoenix metro area to implement a ban on feeding wild birds, joining the ranks of Phoenix and Tempe, which have already enacted similar measures. The new law, passed in 2019, aims to curb the growing problem of excessive bird droppings in public spaces and private properties, but it has stirred up mixed reactions from the public.
advertisement
Many may not be aware of this, but Arizona faces unique environmental challenges related to air quality. Despite its natural beauty, the state’s air quality frequently falls below ideal levels, raising concerns for residents and visitors alike. Several factors contribute to poor air quality in Arizona, from its geographical features to human activities. Let’s explore why the air quality tends to be bad in this desert state.
advertisement
advertisement
Cookie | Duration | Description |
---|---|---|
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional | 11 months | The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. |
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance | 11 months | This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". |
viewed_cookie_policy | 11 months | The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data. |