Read, Watch or Listen

Wildlife biologist Mark Hostetler turned bug splatters on windshields into a learning opportunity. His research, compiled in the book and app "That Gunk on Your Car," identifies 24 insect types by their unique splatter patterns. The project aims to educate people about the importance of insects in the ecosystem, highlighting their diverse characteristics through the often overlooked phenomenon of windshield splatters. The app allows users to identify bugs based on the residue left on their car.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.