Red milkweed beetles are bright red insects with long antennae and a unique “four eyes” setup. They live on milkweed, laying eggs near the stems. Larvae feed on roots underground, then emerge as adults in summer. Like monarchs, they eat milkweed and avoid its sticky latex by cutting leaf veins. Their red color warns predators of their toxicity. These beetles also make squeaking and purring sounds while feeding or interacting with each other.

The northern saw-whet owl is one of the smallest owls in the world, standing no larger than 8 inches tall. They do not hoot and are named for their song that is said to sound similar to a whetstone sharpening a saw. Northern saw-whet owls usually nest in cavities built or used by other birds where fledglings will stay until fully independent after about 3 months. They are exclusively nocturnal predators that prey on small rodents and birds and large insects.

Bats aren’t blind or flying mice - they're unique and the only mammals capable of true flight. Over 1,400 species exist, including insect-eaters in the Midwest and desert and tropical pollinators that help produce foods like mangoes and chocolate. Most bats have few predators but face threats like white-nose syndrome. They give birth to just one pup a year, which can be one-third their size. And just like us, they have belly buttons too!

Dragonflies are harmless and often seen near water. They control insect populations and are indicators of healthy ecosystems. There are 7,000 species of dragonflies worldwide. Damselflies appear similar; however, dragonflies rest with wings out and have bulkier bodies. Dragonflies start their lives in the water and live there for up to 3 years. Their huge eyes offer near 360° vision, UV light detection, and great hunting abilities when paired with their flight skills.

The bald eagle became the U.S. symbol for its striking look and native roots. Its white head and wide wingspan stand out. Found in 49 states, it builds massive nests and eats a varied diet, mostly fish. Though once endangered, conservation helped it recover. Like America, bald eagles are bold, resilient, and big, making them a fitting national mascot.

Ants are essential insects known for their strength, teamwork, and farming skills. With an estimated 20 quadrillion worldwide, they outnumber humans by millions to one. Ants improve soil, farm fungi and aphids, and live in large colonies with complex roles. They can lift thousands of times their body weight and communicate using pheromones and vibrations. Some colonies even span thousands of miles.

The spiny softshell turtle stands out with its soft, flat shell and snorkel-like nose. Unlike most turtles, it has thorn-like spines along the edges of their shell and webbed feet that make it a fast swimmer. Found in freshwater habitats across the Midwest, it hides in sandy bottoms and uses its long nose to breathe while buried. Omnivorous and cold-blooded like other turtles, it basks in the sun to warm up. Males stay small and light-colored, while females grow larger and da

Carpenter bees drill into wood to nest and lay their eggs. They resemble bumblebees but have shiny abdomens. There is no queen bee, but rather a female hierarchy: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Females can sting but rarely do. Males guard nests but can’t sting. Though sometimes pests, damaging wooden parts of your home, they’re important pollinators and part of the food chain. You can deter them with paint or traps.