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
“Hello, I recently visited Santa Cruz Island and took a photo of what I believe to be Pantala hymenaea. I posted on iNaturalist, first with a P. falvescens ID since that's the only speci...”
Patricia Simpson, San Diego, CA - September 6, 2026
“I have noticed over the last 10 days or so a much larger volume of dragonflies in my yard, neighbors yard, and today I saw another "swarm" in Girsch Park. While its not uncommon to see a dragonf...”
Alicia, Santa Barbara - August 22, 2026
“Hello!
Can you tell what this is that is sitting on the blue-eyed grass?
Thanks!”
Kevin, Santa Barbara - April 6, 2026
“Hello-
My granddaughter and I observed some creatures at minus tide on New year’s day 2026 that I’ve never seen before.The photo I’m providing does not adequately...”
Mujiba, Santa Barbara - January 29, 2026
“Hello,I think this might be a Coast Live Oak, so is this an oak wasp gall?Thanks!”
Kevin, Santa Barbara - January 23, 2026
“Hi! I read the article about finding a Joro spider locally. Wondering if this is also a Joro spider? I took this photo in Toba, Japan in early December 2025. Thanks!”
Nick, Santa Barbara - January 16, 2026
“Hello!
Can you tell what type of spider this is? It's wrapping up a honey bee.
Thanks!”
Kevin, Santa Barbara - November 3, 2025
“Hello!
Can you tell what this is?
Thanks!”
Kevin, Santa Barbara - August 13, 2025
“Hello!
Can you tell what type of beetle this is? Very tiny.”
Kevin, Santa Barbara - August 4, 2025
“This moth was on our patio floor and was franticly spinning around and around.”
Ronald, Santa Barbara CA. - July 31, 2025
