There are 25,000 species of insects in Oregon, but U.S. Department of Agriculture entomologists Helmuth Rogg and Jim LaBonte said only about 10% of them are considered pests that affect crops, land, or nursery plants.
In fact, many insects are useful for agriculture. Some feed on weeds and others cultivate the soil. For the most part, Rogg and LaBonte said, don’t be afraid if you run into one.
Here is a selection of common insects that are harmless to humans but may not appear that way.
Pandora moths
Pandora moth
These giant, black and yellow moths with distinctive gray and pink wings are common in central Oregon. The moths appear every few years and are expected to return to the state this year.
California tile-horned borer
California tile-horned borer
Part of the longhorn beetle family are known to be random invaders into Oregonian homes, but they’re more of a nuisance than a threat. The insect, 2 inches long, cannot bite or sting; the worst thing they can do is squeak in fear.
Banded alder beetle
Banded alder beetle
This beetle is white-blue and black in color and is 1 1/2 inches long. Most commonly seen between March and August, they are attracted to the smell of freshly painted houses and arrive by the hundreds.
Rainbug
Rainbug
This beetle is unique to the Pacific Northwest. It is about 1½ inches long and is most often noticed when flying awkwardly towards lights.
Uroctonus mordacious scorpion
Uroctonus mordacious scorpion
These scorpions live in the forested valleys of Oregon and are nocturnal so they rarely come across humans. If so, they are mostly harmless. Its sting resembles that of a bee.
