In part one of a two-part series, Dr. Art Evans, entomologist and WCVE producer Steve Clark chronicle the apparent demise, dramatic rediscovery, and tenuous recovery of one of the world’s largest insects, Lord Howe’s walking stick.

Photo: Granitethighs-Wikimedia Commons

Dr. Art Evans, entomologist and WCVE producer Steve Clark examine the past and present use of cochineal. These waxy cactus-feeding insects are gathered, dried, ground up, and used to produce dye for cosmetics, fabrics, and food coloring.

Starbucks has announced it will stop using cochineal extract. Starbucks U.S. president Cliff Burrows says the company will transition to lycopene, a natural tomato-based extract used for coloring.

Photo: Dr. John Brackenbury/Science Photo Library

Dr. Art Evans, entomologist, and WCVE producer Steve Clark marvel at the recent irruption of fall cankerworms in central Virginia.

Dr. Art Evans, entomologist and WCVE producer Steve Clark review Owlet Caterpillars of Eastern North America published by Princeton University Press. Art notes that this book is out just in time for National Moth Week that is coming up on July 23-29, 2012.

For more information on the book, visit here.

To find out more about National Moth Week, visit here.