Spanish Vocabulary for Insects and Bugs

Whether you're enjoying a picnic in a park in Mexico City, hiking in Costa Rica, or just relaxing in your rental in Colombia, you're bound to encounter some 'bichos' (bugs). Knowing how to name these little creatures is surprisingly useful, allowing you to ask for bug spray, point out a beautiful butterfly, or warn someone about a wasp. This vocabulary list focuses on the most common insects and bugs you'll hear about in everyday Latin American Spanish. We've chosen high-frequency words that are practical for travelers and learners at the A2 level. While many insect names are universal in the Spanish-speaking world, we'll focus on the terms most prevalent in Latin America and note interesting regional differences when they pop up. The general word 'bicho' is an incredibly useful catch-all for any small critter, but be aware that in some places like Puerto Rico, it can be a slang term for male genitalia. Context is key! For the most part, however, it's a safe and common word you'll hear and use often.