Featured Creature: It's Good to be Confused

Yes, that is correct. Forget everything you've heard about confusion being a negative trait. It's not.

Not if you're a confused flour beetle.

That's right: the confused flour beetle. She's one of the most common insects in pantries and supermarkets all across the United States, yet hardly anyone knows her name. No wonder all of her family is confused. You'd be having an identity crisis too.

For you bug-squeamish humans, fear not.  The confused flour beetle really is a person, just like you. She and her friends enjoy munching on some cereal in the morning, maybe some crackers and fresh fruit throughout the day, and even some chocolate to share with her favorite he-beetle. Don't worry, mom, the CFB gets her protein from good old beans and nuts, so just think of her as a well-rounded critter who helps keep your groceries company and helps you - albeit very slowly - clean up some of those pantry spills. Since CFBs only eat cracked and powdered grains, beans, and other kernels, you don't have to worry about sharing your whole supper, so why not just make friends and get along? Okay, so some people think they have a bit of an odor, but really, sometimes, don't you stink just a little bit too?

Let's show some love to the confused.