Widow Skimmer

Invertebrates > Dragonflies

The Widow Skimmer (Libellula luctuosa) is one of the most familiar, visually dramatic dragonflies adorning summer ponds across North America. Named for the striking black bands covering the inner half of all four wings—evoking traditional black mourning crêpe worn by...

Promethea Silkmoth

Invertebrates > Moths

The Promethea Silkmoth (Callosamia promethea), also affectionately known as the Spicebush Silkmoth, is an enchanting giant silk moth native to the deciduous forests of eastern North America. Named after Prometheus from Greek mythology, this regal lepidopteran exhibits...

Dark Fishing Spider

Invertebrates > Arachnids

The Dark Fishing Spider (Dolomedes tenebrosus) is an impressive, titanic arachnid that reigns as one of the largest native spiders in eastern North America. Boasting a formidable leg span that can reach five inches across, this handsome, velvety giant is famous for...

Brilliant Jumping Spider

Invertebrates > Arachnids

The Brilliant Jumping Spider (Phidippus clarus) is a captivating, charismatic predator native to the sunlit meadows and old fields of North America. Renowned for its enormous, gleaming anterior median eyes that provide sharp, high-definition stereoscopic color vision,...

Queen Butterfly

Invertebrates > Butterflies & Moths

The Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus) is a magnificent, velvety chestnut-brown milkweed butterfly native to the warm, sun-drenched landscapes of the southern Americas. Closely related to the famous Monarch, the Queen is celebrated for its deep chocolate-orange wings...