What: The Urban Research Center at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is launching a new project to track bugs in the city. The project, called "Bug Blitz," will use a variety of methods to collect and identify insects and other arthropods in Los Angeles.

Why: Bugs are an important part of the urban ecosystem, and they can provide valuable information about the health of the environment. By tracking bugs, researchers can learn more about how the urban environment is changing, and they can identify potential problems that need to be addressed.

How: Bug Blitz will use a variety of methods to collect and identify bugs, including:

* Traps: Traps will be placed in various locations around the city, and they will be used to collect bugs of different sizes and species.

* Nets: Researchers will use nets to sweep through vegetation and catch flying insects.

* Hand collection: Researchers will hand-collect bugs from plants, trees, and other surfaces.

* Identification: Bugs will be identified using a variety of methods, including microscopy and DNA analysis.

Who: Bug Blitz is being conducted by researchers from the UCLA Urban Research Center, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

When: Bug Blitz will run from June 1 to September 30, 2023.

Impact: Bug Blitz will provide valuable information about the urban ecosystem in Los Angeles. The data collected from the project will be used to inform policy decisions and to develop strategies for protecting the environment.

Funding: Bug Blitz is being funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation.