Third-Grader Studies Beetle Galleries

Third-grader, Maarit A’Hearn, who lives in Southern California, observes the natural world with the eye of a scientist.  We suspect this may have been cultivated by her dad, Peter A’Hearn, who is a K-12 Science Specialist. Those of us at the Cavity Conservation Initiative were delighted to learn that while hiking with her father this past winter in the snow-laden San Bernardino National Forest, Maarit observed intriguing markings on downed logs and dead trees. Dad explained they were bark beetle tracks, otherwise known as “galleries.”  Maarit’s curiosity spurred a study project.

In her 55-page project journal, Maarit recorded her study of bark beetle tracks at three different elevations in the forest.  She illustrated many varieties, describing some as “spagety, Egyptian pictures, hills, snacks and siggers.”

Maarit wanted to know how elevation affects the number of beetle galleries.  Her hypothesis was that colder temperatures at higher elevations would kill beetle larva and perhaps there might be fewer.  Not so she discovered; in fact there were more!  Her research also revealed that the Red Turpentine Beetle can kill a tree.  With the objectivity of a scientist, her report provided the perspective of the beetles. “Well, we have to eat!”

This  project earned Maarit the best Entomology Award from the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District for the third year in a row. Mealworm beetles and mosquito larvae were her prior subjects.

We awarded Maarit our Wildlife Tree Warden patch and our t-shirt to congratulate her on her project. We hope that her keen observations and curious mind will lead to many more revealing study projects outdoors!