Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Name that Bug

Well, thanks to everyone who played along with me on this post - I truly appreciate all the suggestions for Deet and Permetherin alternatives for bug repellent - I've made a list and will set to field testing soon ;)

As for the bugs in the photo, they are indeed Cochineal bugs. I first became fascinated with them when I realized my own prickly pear had an infestation. Those particular bugs in the photo are not from my prickly pear as they currently are infestation free (I suspect, due to the long drought in the area). I have big plans for these bugs - along with several other natural dyes. I just need it to cool down a bit so I can stand to make the dye liquors and put the dye pots on for simmering!

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