When you think of summer in Illinois, you might picture swaying prairie grasses, tall oak trees, and, if you’re outside long enough, bugs. From the fireflies that light up July evenings to the pesky mosquitoes biting your ankles during a bonfire, insects are an inescapable part of our landscape. But they’re not just a buzzing background, bugs play essential roles in our ecosystems, gardens, and food systems. While some invasive insects threaten local biodiversity, most bugs are crucial contributors to a healthy environment. Insects are often overlooked– or worse, feared–but many are performing essential ecological services every day, and they deserve our thanks!