Invertebrates
See our handy guide to critters found in local homes and our Central Coast Butterfly FAQ. Browse the insects and other terrestrial arthropods we’ve identified. Check out local marine invertebrates, particularly bivalve mollusks and intertidal organisms.
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- Recently Asked
“I found this bug by our back door. It's not made any sound except for flittering, so I don't think it's a cricket or a cicada. Our door was open last night but I didn't hear it until today,...”
Caitlin, West Side - May 2, 2025
“What did I find right near the wharf?”
Louis, The wharf - March 31, 2025
“Hello! Do you know what type of butterfly this is? I thought maybe Painted Lady, but not sure.
Thanks!”
Kevin, UCSB - March 18, 2025
“Hello! I was wondering if you could help me figure out what this is...we found it at the UCSB beach. We tried to save it, but it looked like we might have been too late :-(”
Marc, UC Santa Barbara - July 27, 2024
“I was near Goleta beach and found what looks like a fossil I'll attach pictures and hopeful you can give me some insight”
Deven, Santa Barbara - April 27, 2024
“Hello!
Is this a type of jumping spider?
Thanks!”
Kevin, UCSB - October 25, 2023
“Last night I saw this scorpion on the living room rug, and I put a drinking glass over it so I could take a picture. It's just under 1 inch with it's tail curled up as in the photo. ...”
Gary, Santa Barbara - October 3, 2023
“I believe we have quite a number of these spiders around our property but this had the biggest web so it may be actually be different from the rest? We have oak trees and it was suspended smack...”
Cathy, Santa Paula - September 9, 2023
“Last week, in Buellton, I saw this caterpillar. I have two questions:
Is it a swallowtail caterpillar?
Is this the right season for caterpillars? I've seen swallowtail flying aroun...”
Karin, Buellton, CA - September 5, 2023
“Hello,
The insect in the attached photos showed up outside the door to my home a few days ago and it is still there. The wings are 2 inches long and the insect is 3-3/4 inches long...”
Laurie, Santa Barbara - July 8, 2023
