Insects, Spiders & More

Image of bees on flowers.

Human health is strongly tied to the environment in which people live. To support Nebraskans health and wellbeing, we must both protect a biodiverse environment that provides for healthy, abundant foods, a strong local economy, and sustainable natural resources, while also managing public health and horticultural crop concerns and threats.

At the same time, managing health threats, such as public health diseases and insect damage to homes plays a vital role in human health and wellbeing.  Integrated approaches to managing urban and public health pests, such as bed bugs, ticks, cockroaches, termites, and head lice help maintain the health of humans, animals, and homes.

Through Extension experts and resources, Nebraskans have what they need to make well-informed decisions. Nebraska Extension is an integral partner in helping Nebraska live up to its well-earned reputation as “The Good Life.”

UNL Bee Lab

We deliver informational content through lectures, handbooks, videos, and demonstrations, which is enhanced by field training exercises. Participants gain hands-on experience with bee hives, guided by our expert instructors and mentors. We support local beekeeping organizations and educators, helping to spread beekeeping knowledge and skills more widely.

Image of honey bees flying into a hive.

Pollinator Habitat Certification

In 2024, there are 256 certified pollinator habitats in 28 Nebraska counties. Learn how to select plants and management landscapes to create your own pollinator habitat. 

Image of clover flowers.

Tick Tag Go

Tick Tag Go is a community-powered effort to establish baseline data on tick distributions in Nebraska. With new tick species being identified in the state, records of tick presence are critical to understanding which species are found where.

This project relies on passive surveillance - the collection of ticks that you come across in your daily routine and activities. Ticks can carry serious diseases - please do not actively search for ticks.

Image of tick-infested grass.

Protecting human, animal, and structural health.

Urban Entomology

Pests can affect anyone—whether they're in your home, affecting your pets, or damaging structures. Using integrated approaches to manage pests like bed bugs, ticks, cockroaches, termites, and head lice helps protect your health, your pets, and your home. 

Image of ants.