As far as beetles go, these guys are pretty small (ranging from 1/16 to a whopping 1/4 of an inch). Thanks to oversized hind legs, they are good jumpers—hence the name “Flea Beetle.” They are plant eaters. Some species are considered crop pests, while others are considered “beneficial” since they feed on weeds. Flea beetles survive the winter as adults and become active again in the spring. 

Photo by: Rachel Johnson on 7/10/21 in Missoula, MT

Photo by: Jenny Taber on 7/27/21 in Clinton, MT