Insects, Spiders, Centipedes, Millipedes

bee on firebush

NPS Files

The coastal area, including Fort Frederica, is home to a wide-variety of insects. As a safety note, visitors are cautioned on the presence of biting bugs: ticks, chiggers, sand gnats, mosquitos, and biting flies. We encourage visitors to bring and apply insect repellent when touring the park.

Park staff have recently planted a pollinator garden,near the visitor center. Insects,like bees and butterflies, are struggling due to pesticides and habitat loss. We are trying to help these important species by planting pollinator-friendly plants, like milkweed for monarch butterflies. Flower gardens can be planted anywhere; even a flowerpot on a porch, balcony, or deck will work.

 

There are many types of Swallowtail butterflies. This is most likely an Eastern Black Swallowtail
(Papilio polyxenes). They may be attracted to gardens containing carrot and parsely plants. Swallowtail caterpillars are known to dine on fennel plants in the park's herb garden.

 

Gulf Frittilary

NPS Files

Gulf Fritillary (Argaulis vanillae) are frequently spotted around the park's large firebush, with its brilliant orange flowers, near the back steps of the visitor center.

 

Grizzled Mantid

NPS Files

Grizzled mantid (Gonatista grisea) is a tree dwelling insect. Its coloring mimics that of lichens when pressed against tree trunks.

 

Tree Cattle Bugs

NPS Files

Tree Cattle bugs, or Psocids, feed on lichen,moss,algae, spores,fungi or pollen. These "bark cleaners" are not harmful to trees. They are found on oaks;more often than other species of trees.