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Common Name:Milkweed Bug, Small Eastern
Scientific Name:Lygaeus kalmia
Family:Lygaeidae (Seed Bugs)
Area:Salem Audubon Nature Reserve
Date:October 4, 2017

Notice the large red "X" accross the wings. They are common accross the United States and feeds on Milkweed seeds. This insect is immune to toxic chemicals in milkweed but is itself toxic to other insect predators.

Reference:National Audubon Society Field Guide to Insects & Spiders