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Bandelier National MonumentDragonfly
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Bandelier National Monument
Insects, Spiders, Centipedes, Millipedes
tarantula hawk
NPS Photo by Sally King
Although tarantula hawks utilize immobilized tarantulas as a first meal for their offspring, pollen from flowers is also an important food.

In the world there is no group of animals more diverse than insects and the same is true at Bandelier. From the beauty of a gossamer- winged butterfly to a hairy multi-legged tarantula or a sleek orange-winged tarantula hawk, insects are abundant in the park. 

Indentify Bandelier Insects and Spiders

 
insect diversity
Photos by Sally King
Bandelier is home to an incredible diversity of insects and spiders.
 
Western Diamondback Rattlesnake  

Did You Know?
Most rattlesnakes bites are "dry" bites in which little or no venom is produced. That doesn't mean you want to get bit. Keep your distance if you encounter a rattlesnake while hiking.

Last Updated: January 21, 2008 at 14:07 EST