We learned about true bugs Stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and bed bugs are true bugs (Suborder Heteroptera) and have mouth parts that are modified for piercing and sucking.
The highlight as always is passing out nets to the children so they could catch and release whatever insects they could find. On one small sandbar willow bush right near the river, one of the children found hundreds of beautiful blue willow leaf beetles (Plagiodera sp., Family Chrysomelidae) It was a source of fascination for all in attendance as most of us had never seen these beetles before. We also learned that caterpillars of Western tiger swallowtail butterflies life cycle actually begins in the cottonwood and sycamore trees at Sutter's Landing Park and thrive on sycamore and ash trees throughout the older parts of Sacramento.
Nita, thank you for taking the time to share your vast knowledge of the insect world. I am sure you have inspired a few kids to become fascinated with the insects that inhabit our amazing Park!