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
In a city where the culinary scene is growing rapidly, one restaurant stands out for its authentic, innovative, and flavorful take on Thai cuisine — and it’s earned national recognition. Lom Wong, a Thai restaurant in Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row, has become a popular hotspot for locals and food critics alike. Chef Yotaka “Sunny” Martin, co-owner of Lom Wong, has made it to the finalist round for the prestigious 2025 James Beard Awards, among the highest honors in the culinary world. advertisement The Vision Behind Lom Wong Opened in 2022, Lom Wong is more than just a place to grab a
In our day-to-day hustle, it’s easy to overlook the beauty surrounding us while on the road. Arizona’s cities are surrounded by incredible landscapes such as the Sonoran Desert, the Sedona monuments, and Flagstaff’s trees and mountains. Still, it’s sometimes too easy to forget the daily beauty we have the opportunity to enjoy. It’s beneficial to remember that Arizona’s commutes can be far more than just a means of getting from point A to point B while trying to avoid traffic. advertisement Top Scenic Commutes in Arizona According to a recent survey by Quantrell Volvo, which surveyed over 3,000 commuters, several
Are you looking for a new breakfast restaurant in the Valley? Fortunately for you, the local breakfast scene is as diverse as the state. Let’s explore some of the best breakfast destinations according to locals. advertisement 1. Butterfield Pancake House (Scottsdale) Locals agree that Butterfield Pancake House is one of the top breakfast spots in the Valley. Known for its mouth-watering pancakes and classic breakfast fare, this Scottsdale establishment is a beloved local gem. True to its name, the pancakes are the star! Fluffy, warm, and served with various toppings make them unique and irresistible. 2. Over Easy Over Easy
When you think about Arizona, there is no denying you’ll also think about cactus. Not only is it the state flower of the blossom of a Saguaro Cactus, but it’s also illegal to destroy or vandalize a Saguaro Cactus in Arizona. But beyond cactus ‘s resilience in the harsh desert landscape, did you know this spiny plant is also packed with health benefits? From cactus fruit to cactus pads (called nopales), the versatile cactus has been a staple in indigenous diets for thousands of years. It is now gaining attention for its impressive nutritional properties. advertisement What Is Cactus Fruit?
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. |