The good, the bad and the buggy

Wait! Before you step on that beetle or pour salt on that snail, consider this: Not all bugs are bad. They may make you squirm, and some of them look like aliens (we’re thinking of the Jerusalem cricket). Still, of the nearly 1 million species found in the world, only 1 percent are considered pests. Most insects go about their lives causing no harm to humans. In fact, many insects are beneficial. Take, for instance, ladybugs, which help keep pesky insects like aphids at bay. Learn more about insects when the Placer Nature Center (located at 3700 Christian Valley Road in Auburn) hosts Bugs, part of its monthly open house. Nets, magnifiers (for looking through, not scorching ants) and identification cards will be available to visitors. Oh, and be sure to check out the insect collection, which includes some of the largest moths, beetles and walking sticks from around the world. The free event takes place this Saturday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (530) 878-6053 for more information.