What’s Buzzin’ Archive: Montana Beetles
Asian Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis)
This species of lady beetle was introduced to the US in the early 1900’s to help control aphids. Although non-native, they are still sold for aphid control across the country and are now well established. Unfortunately, they are an aggressive species and have an impact on our native lady beetles. Their color can range from light orange to deep red with the boldness of the spots / patterns being different from individual to individual.
Photo by Carolyn Taber on 10/8/20 in Missoula, MT
Oil Beetle in the genus Meloe
Based on the time of year this strange looking beetle was found, we believe it might be Meloe impressus. During April and May, you can find the similar looking Black Meloe (Meloe niger). As you might guess from their short-stubby wings, the adults are flightless ground-dwellers. With their comically bloated abdomens, it would be amazing if they were able to get off the ground even if they had larger wings. If handled and squeezed, they employ a chemical defense that will blister your skin …so better to observe and not touch.
Photo by Heather McKee around 10/4/20 near Clinton, MT
Flea Beetles in the genus Altica, likely Altica prasina or Altica bimarginata
Lily and company spotted this mass of beetles from the Clark Fork River. Lily first thought they were galls of some type but on closer inspection they were these beauties! 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,” and can make a hasty retreat when threatened. Flea beetles are plant eaters. Some species are considered crop pests while others are considered “beneficial” since they feed on weeds. The beetles pictured here (one of two different species that are nearly indistinguishable) are feeding on their host of willow. The adults emerge in August and will group up at this time of year to overwinter as a group in the soil / leaf litter under the host plant. Come spring, they will be active again.
Photo by Lily Cobble a few weeks ago in Missoula, MT
A Sap-feeding Beetle (Glischrochilus vittatus)
Glenn saw these tiny beetles (3.5mm – 6mm) everywhere on the saddle of Mount Jumbo as the sun got low in the evening. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find a lot of information about this species, other than they are often found under pine bark. Sap-feeding beetles (family Nitidulidae) have an incredibly varied diet that includes nectar, sap, rotting wood, fruit, fungi, carcasses, seeds, and other insects. Some transmit fungi that cause disease of plants. Members of the genus Glischrochilus are all glossy black marked with yellow or red and may fly in fair numbers to sap and decaying fruit.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 10/3/20 on Mount Jumbo near Missoula, MT
Red-femured Milkweed Borer (Tetraopes femoratus)
Find a good patch of Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) and you are likely to spot these boldly colored longhorn beetles. As the name suggests, they specialize on milkweed; the larvae feed on the roots and the adults feed on the leaves and flowers. By feeding on milkweed, these insects absorb the plant’s chemicals and are toxic to potential predators. Adults will be present through September, with the larvae boring into the stems and overwintering in the roots.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 9/20/20 in Missoula, MT
Megasemum asperum (no common name)
This sizable beetle is about an inch in length. They can be found from June into September throughout western North America (as far south as Sonora, Mexico) and are attracted to lights at night. The preferred host tree species is Douglas-fir. This is the only species in this genus in North America.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 9/12/20 in Missoula, MT
Knapweed Root Weevil (Cyphocleonus achates)
Following closely on the heels of the European Praying Mantis, this beetle is our second highest reported insect as of late. Like the mantis, it is also an exotic species. It was introduced on purpose to help combat another exotic species — spotted knapweed (primarily). Females lay their eggs on the top of the knapweed’s root crown. Once they hatch, the larvae burrow into the plant’s root, destroying the vascular root tissue and preventing the plant from transporting water and nutrients. Death of the plant can occur within two years. Research at Montana State University has shown up to a 99% reduction in knapweed density as result of knapweed root weevil introduction. Go weevils!
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/29/20 in Missoula, MT
Giant Water Scavenger Beetle (Hydrophilus triangularis)
This is the largest aquatic-dwelling beetle in the United States, reaching over 1.5 inches in length. They range throughout North America and live in lakes and ponds with emergent vegetation. As larvae, they are capable predators, feeding on small invertebrates like insects and snails, but also tadpoles and small fish. Adults, despite their name, prey on animals, as well as scavenge decaying plant material and detritus. While adult beetles spend much of their time in or under water, they still need to breathe air. Handily, they can trap a bubble of air between their wings and abdomen, essentially creating a “scuba tank” that will let them stay under for long periods of time. This beetle was found on a forest road and was likely in search of a new area before it reproduces.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 8/19/20 near Lolo, MT
Ponderosa Pine Bark Borer, female (Acanthocinus princeps)
The Ponderosa Pine Bark Borer is just one of over 25,000 species of longhorn beetles. The family is known for their impressive antennae, which are often as long or longer than their body, males with the longest. This species’ larvae feed in the degrading phloem of dead or dying ponderosa pine and other pines of the West. Typically, they move in after the host is killed by the western pine beetle or the mountain pine beetle, or when it is weakened severely by a long-standing drought. A nest-like pupal cell is created between the bark and the wood for their transformation from vertical-faced larva to flying adult. This is a female, with a long ovipositor (a tubular structure used for laying eggs) attached to her abdomen.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 8/19/20 near Lolo, MT
Red-shouldered Pine Borer (Stictoleptura canadensis cribripennis)
There’s not much information available about this species of flower longhorn beetle. As assumed, the adults feed on flowers. The larvae primarily feed on dead or rotting wood.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/17/20 in Condon, MT.
Ponderous Borer (Trichocnemis spiculatus)
We received two reports of this large beetle recently — the largest beetle in Montana. This one was found by one of our younger bug enthusiasts, Weston, and was described as being “not in good shape” and “requiring bugsitting.” They can be found in forested areas of Douglas fir and ponderosa pine (their principle hosts) throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Females lay eggs in cracks of suitable logs or stumps from trees that have recently been felled or killed by fire. They do not attack live trees. The larval stage typically takes 3 to 5 years until pupation and the emergence of the adults that garner so much attention. And at up to 3.5 inches in length, that attention is well deserved. Interesting fact — the mature larvae have gnawing jaws that inspired the invention of the chainsaw.
Photo by Ashley Haun on 8/19/20 in Thompson Falls, MT.
Flower Longhorn Beetle (Xestoleptura crassicornis)
While we’re pretty confident we’ve positively identified this species of longhorn beetle, little information exists on their habits. There are over 25,000 species of longhorn beetles worldwide. They are aptly named (with antennae often as long as or longer than their body) and are often colorful (iridescent green, black and yellow, black and red, etc.).
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/18/20 in Condon, MT.
Ten-lined June Beetle, female (Polyphylla decemlineata)
At up to 1.5 inches in length, these beetles are hard to miss when they are around. They can be found across the western half of North America. When disturbed, they make a hissing sound by rubbing their abdomen against the inside of their wing covers. Males have large, feathery antennae and are strongly attracted to lights. Females have substantially smaller antennae and rarely visit lights. Adults of both sexes feed on foliage of various trees and shrubs, while the larvae feed on the roots.
Photo by Jacque Currie on 8/23/20 in Missoula, MT.
White-spotted Sawyer, male (Monochamus scutellatus)
This long-horned beetle can be found in coniferous forests across North America, especially in the northern United States, upper Midwest and much of Canada. The males have one white spot at the front of the elytra (wing covers). Females have other white spots throughout the lower portions of the elytra. Males have ridiculously long antennae to help them better find a mate. Thank you to Bill Taber and Carolyn Taber for also sharing photos of this beetle!
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/16/20 in Condon, MT.
Convergent Lady Beetle (Hippodamia convergens)
This common species of lady beetle (or ladybug) will spend the winter in hibernation in groups of thousands of individuals and then emerge to mate and start the next generation in late winter / early spring. If you purchase lady beetles to release into your garden, this is most likely the species you will get. The pattern of number of spots on the abdomen is not always the best way to identify lady beetles. Taking a look at the patterns on the head and thorax is more reliable.
Photo by Lisa Ann Cloo on 8/13/20 in Clinton, MT.
Rove Beetle (Paederus sp.)
There are nearly 5,000 species of rove beetles in North America. In this case we were lucky to narrow it down to a genus that contains just 15 species. Unlike most rove beetles that are dull-colored, this group is characterized by their bright colors of red/orange and black/blue. The color pattern may serve as a warning to predators. Species within this genus (and most rove beetles in general) prey on other invertebrates as larvae and adults. While it may not look like it, they have well-developed wings folded under their small wing covers and can fly.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 7/25/20 near St. Regis, MT
Yellow Douglas-fir Borer (Centrodera spurca)
We included this beetle in a report from this past June …but we wanted to include it again because one of our younger and most dedicated bug hunters, Emma Read, is showing it off. Emma’s father brought it all the way from Missoula to Lolo for her to check out and identify. As the name suggests, these long-horned beetles largely feed on douglas-fir. They can be found in the west from British Columbia to Utah. The larvae feed underground on roots and take two years to finally emerge as adults.
Photo by Minette Read on 7/24/20 in Lolo, MT
Either a Banded Sexton Beetle (Nicrophorus investigator) or a Yellow-bellied Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus guttula)
This colorful black and orange beetle is called a carrion beetle, sexton beetle or burying beetle. The adults demonstrate amazing parental care of their young from egg to larvae. They find a small dead animal, bury the carcass, lay eggs on it, and continue to feed the emerging young regurgitated carrion. As pictured here, these beetles typically have mites on them that “jump ship” when the beetle finds a carcass. This is an example of a symbiotic relationship where the mites feed on fly eggs that may be on / near the carcass, which would hatch into maggots and eat the beetle larvae’s food. In turn, the beetle provides the mites with “transportation” to predictable sources of carcasses (and fly eggs) that would otherwise be difficult for them to find.
Photo by Lisa Ann Cloo on 8/5/20 in Clinton, MT
Yellow Velvet Flower Beetle (Cosmosalia chrysocoma)
These golden, fuzzy-looking beetles can be found from Canada to Northern Mexico, mainly in the western part of North America.They range in size between 1 to 2 centimeters. Adults feed on flower pollen, while the larvae feed on dead and decaying wood of hardwoods and conifers.
Photo by Morgan McNeill on 7/27/20 in Lolo, MT
Seven-spotted Lady Beetle (Coccinella septempunctata)
Despite being native to Europe and East Asia, the seven spotted lady beetle has made itself at home all across the US since being introduced about 70 years ago to help control aphid populations. Unfortunately, their establishment has impacted native and less common species of ladybugs. In spite of being classified as an invasive species, it is the state insect of five different states. As an aside, the ant in this photo may have been trying to fend off the lady beetle …lady beetles eat aphids, which ants often tend / herd to collect their honeydew / waste as a food source.
Photo by Lisa Winn Cloo on 7/13/20 in Clinton, MT.
Ten-lined June Beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata)
It’s really a special moment when you catch a beetle preparing for take off. The hardening forewings (elytra) spread out so that the delicate, membranous hindwings can unfold. Whether on land or in the air, these up to 1.5 inch long beetles are hard to miss when they are around. When disturbed, they make a hissing sound by rubbing their abdomen against the inside of their wing covers. Other than some threatening hisses, they are peaceful plant eaters. As adults they feed on tree foliage and the larvae feed on roots of shrubs and trees. Males, like the one pictured, have large feathery antennae that help them find a mate. They can be found across the western half of North America and are attracted to lights at night.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 7/21/20 in Missoula, MT.
Garden Carrion Beetle Larva (Heterosilpha ramosa)
Our board member, Morgan, sent us videos and photos of an insect that had a curious behavior of rolling up like a Common Pill Bug and sort of looked like one too. After plugging in a few key words, we arrived at the garden carrion beetle. A carrion beetle, whose diet is a little hard to pin down. According to BugGuide, it eats “primarily decomposing vegetable matter; may attack garden and field crops, grasses.” While the Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America, states it is “found on carrion and in decaying vegetation but was noted as a pest of strawberries in Naches, Washington, in 1937-1938.” Yet another field guide, put out by the National Wildlife Federation, says, “they feed on plant matter and living or dead insects.” It sounds like this could be a great insect to study. These beetles are found in damp lawns, fields, and mountain meadows in British Columbia east to Lake Superior and south into Mexico.
Photos by Morgan McNeill on 7/9/20 in Lolo, MT.
Golden Buprestid (Buprestis aurulenta)
Virginia’s son, Wyatt, found arguably one of the most beautiful insects we have in Montana. These beetles range throughout the western U.S. and Canada. They tend to focus on lightning killed trees, where the larvae take between two to four years to mature and emerge as adults. However, there are instances when the larvae become trapped in milled lumber, where they can take from 20 to 30 years to emerge. They’ve been documented emerging from furniture, wood paneling, cutting boards and more. Listen to a two minute episode of our podcast, Bug Bytes, to learn more about these shining jewels.
Photo by Virginia Heinz on 7/14/20 in Victor, MT.
Western Sculptured Pine Borer (Chalcophora angulicollis)
This metallic woodborer beetle is truly a work of art, with its textured upper side and iridescent bronze luster. An opening of the wings reveals even more beauty. This species was just recently separated as an individual species from its eastern relatives. They are found in coniferous forests where females search for dead or dying trees in which to lay their eggs. They don’t attack healthy trees.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 7/3/20 near Potomac, MT.
Yellow Douglas-fir Borer (Centrodera spurca)
As the name suggests, these long-horned beetles largely feed on douglas-fir. They can be found in the west from British Columbia to Utah. The larvae feed underground on roots and take two years to finally emerge as adults.
Photo by Steve Decker on 6/5/20 in Missoula, MT.
Trichiotinus assimilis
This is a species of flower scarab, and quite the pollen magnet with all that fuzz. It can be found across the US from coast to coast, primarily in the north. Adults feed on flowers while larvae feed on decaying stumps, logs and branches of deciduous trees.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 6/22/20 in Condon, MT.
Unidentified “Pregnant” Beetle, possibly a European Ground Beetle (Carabus nemoralis)
We are not 100% sure on the ID for this beetle, but we do know for certain that it is a female …and she is almost ready to lay eggs. There is a similar looking one on Bug Guide that you can compare it to. The abdomen of a gravid (pregnant) female enlarges by stretching of membranes between the abdominal segments, making the wing cases (elytra) look like they’ve shrunk. Photo by Molly Baylor on 6/20/20 in Missoula, MT.
Green Click Beetle (Nitidolimonius resplendens)
If you’ve never seen a click beetle and have wondered how they got their name, just gently pick one up …you’ll soon know why.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 6/5/20 in the Pattee Canyon Recreation Area near Missoula, MT
Pine Needle Weevil (Pachyrhinus elegans)
There are over 3,000 species of weevils in North America. This little guy (less than ¼ inch) landed on the photographer, just begging to have its picture taken. Pine needle weevils can vary greatly in color, ranging from green to reddish-brown to gray.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 6/3/20 in Condon, MT
Cottonwood Leaf Beetle (Chrysomela scripta)
The adults and larvae of this beetle like to feed on willows, poplars, and (as you might guess) cottonwoods.They can be found throughout the US, including Alaska, in areas where there host plants exist. The adults overwinter and emerge in early spring to begin feeding on the new leaf growth. Females will lay lemon-yellow colored eggs in clusters of between 15 to 75 eggs on the underside of leaves. Depending on the latitude, they can have from two to several generations a year.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 6/3/20 in Condon, MT
Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis)
This species of lady beetle was introduced to the US in the early 1900’s to help control aphids. Although non-native, they are still sold for aphid control across the country and are now well established. Unfortunately, they are an aggressive species and have an impact on our native lady beetles. Their color can range from light orange to deep red with the boldness of the spots / patterns being different from individual to individual.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo in Missoula, MT on 6/2/20
May Beetle, also called June Bug (genus Phyllophaga)
We have had two May Beetle sightings this week. A big thank you to young bug enthusiasts Morgan, Mariah and Aerin for alerting us. These common beetles are named for the months they are most numerous in, May and June. The adults are nocturnal, foliage feeders, while the larvae, known as white grubs, feed on roots of grasses and other herbs underground. They are clumsy walkers and fliers and attracted to lights …and well known for their noisy, awkward arrivals at porch lights and window screens on early summer nights. There are at least 400 species collectively distributed across North America except for Alaska and far northwestern Canada. The members of this genus vary in size, and vary in color from reddish brown to gray, but most cannot be identified to species.
Photos by Amy Scott Smith and Morgan Smith on 5/29/20 in Missoula, MT
Golden Net-wing Beetle (Dictyoptera aurora)
This strikingly beautiful, red beetle has a name to match, aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn. The bright red color suggests a distasteful (or poisonous) meal to potential predators. These beetles call coniferous and mixed forests across northern Eurasia and North America home. Larvae feed on decaying wood, while adults enjoy nectar, pollen, and small insects.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/25/20 in Pattee Canyon near Missoula, MT
Click Beetle (Danosoma brevicornis)
There are nearly 1,000 species of click beetles (family Elateridae) in North America. If you’ve never seen a click beetle and have wondered how they got their name, just gently pick one up …you’ll soon know why. You’ll not only hear the clicking sound they make, you’ll see your little friend launch into the air. These beetles have a special spine on the underside of their thorax. They use their muscles to arch their bodies, insert the spine into a special groove, and then continue to contract their muscles until the spine eventually pops out of the groove with enough released energy to send the beetle flying. They use this “click” to hopefully avoid being eaten by something and to right themselves in case they end up on their back.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/25/20 in Pattee Canyon near Missoula, MT
Hollyhock Weevil (Apion longirostre)
Picture an elephant with its trunk permanently extended. Shrink it into a 1/8-inch insect, with the trunk — now a snout — accounting for half its size, and you have the adult hollyhock weevil. These tiny insects have terminal, leaf- and bud-chewing jaws on their snouts and a pair of jointed antennae along their sides. Aptly named, their primary food source is hollyhock.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/21/20 in Missoula, MT
Flying Saucer Lady Beetle or Rathvon’s Lady Beetle (Anatis rathvoni)
Spring is the air for these two charmingly named beetles. Their very angular outline is unlike any other North American lady beetle and their helmet-shape, with a flared “rim,” is reminiscent of a classic 1950’s flying saucer. This genus includes our largest (7-10mm) lady beetles, with four North American species usually found in trees. This species hunts aphids, caterpillars, sawfly larvae, and other soft-bodied insects in pines and other conifers. Outside of Montana, they can be found in British Columbia, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada.
Photo by Nora Van Stelten on 5/15/20 in Superior, MT
Western Tiger Beetle or Pacific Tiger Beetle (Cicindela oregona)
Western Tiger Beetle, also called the Pacific Tiger Beetle (Cicindela oregona): The western tiger is slightly smaller than our other tiger beetles in Montana. Their color can vary from brown, green, purple to black. They are active in May and June (mating), with the next generation appearing in late summer and fall. This beetle seeks out sandy, muddy habitats along rivers and has a 2-year lifecycle with both adults and larvae overwintering. Like other tiger beetles, these guys run extremely fast …so fast that they outrun the capacity of their eyes and brain to process what they are seeing. They literally run themselves blind and need to stop, look around and then continue their pursuit of their prey. For more information about these amazing beetles, listen to our short (two minutes) Bug Bytes episode here.
Photo by Bryant Bronson on 5/16/20 in Council Grove State Park near Missoula, MT
Ground Beetle in the Carabus or Calosoma genera
We believe this, and the next beetle, are in one of two genera, Carabus or Calosoma. Getting an exact ID is challenging, so we appreciate you learning with us! Ground beetles (family Carabidae) are abundant and diverse. Both photos exemplify how most look; black, shiny, with grooved wing covers. Most are nocturnal hunters and can be found at lights at night and under debris during the day. Disturb their hiding places and they will scurry in all directions. If they can’t escape from danger, many will defend themselves with noxious secretions deployed from their anal glands. A lot of insects lead short lives, but ground beetles typically live two to three years as adults.
Photo by Marcy Allen on 5/2/30 in Missoula, MT.
Oil Beetle Larvae on a male Mining Bee (Andrena sp.)
After hatching, these Oil Beetle larvae, called triungulins, gather together at the top of a plant and begin emitting pheromones that attract male solitary bees. They then lie in wait for bees to arrive, jump on them, and if it’s a male bee, ride on him until he mates with a female bee. Then they jump onto HER and ride until she goes into her underground, solitary nest. There they decimate her store of pollen and her eggs, pupate underground, and emerge later as adult oil beetles (also called blister beetles). For a fun read and deeper look into this surprising life story click here.
Photo by Marirose Kuhlman on 4/29/20 in Florence, MT.
Rove Beetle (in the family Staphylinidae)
The rove beetle strikes again! Although we featured one in last week’s report, repetition is certainly a useful tool for identifying arthropods in the field. There are nearly 5,000 species of Rove Beetles in North America. No wonder we had trouble narrowing it down further than family. Sleek, slender and elongate, most Rove Beetle adults prey on other invertebrates and larvae. Most larvae also hunt invertebrates, but some feed on decaying vegetation. While it may not look like it, most species have well-developed wings folded under their small wing covers and can fly.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 4/21/20 in Missoula, MT.
Twice-stabbed Ladybug (Chilocorus stigma)
This unique species of lady beetle has a descriptive, but gruesome, common name. Being all black in color, except for two red dots in the center of each wing cover (elytra), they certainly look like they’ve been “twice-stabbed”. While many ladybugs feed on aphids, the twice-stabbed focuses on scale insects and is an effective predator of pine needle scale insects. They are found throughout the US, except west of the Sierra Nevada.
Photo by Karen Weaver on 4/17/20 in Missoula, MT
Broad-nosed Weevil (in the subfamily Entiminae)
This weevil was a whopping ⅛ inch long and was positioned on our development director’s wrist for scale. The broad-nosed weevils are usually easily recognized by, unsurprisingly, their broad snouts (scientifically called rostrums).Their chewing mouthparts are located at the tip, which they use to dine on a variety of plants. Larvae are also vegetarians but generally live in soil and feed on roots. Many species within this family are parthenogenetic, with eggs that develop without fertilization.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 4/17/20 in Missoula, MT.
Rove Beetle (in the family Staphylinidae)
There are nearly 5,000 species of Rove Beetles in North America. No wonder we had trouble narrowing it down further than family. Sleek, slender and elongate, this individual measured in at about 1 cm. Most Rove Beetle adults and larvae prey on other invertebrates. Some larvae feed on decaying vegetation. While it may not look like it, most species have well-developed wings folded under their small wing covers and can fly.
Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 4/19/20 in Missoula, MT.
Oil Beetle (genus Meloe)
As you might guess from their short-stubby wings, the adults are flightless ground-dwellers. With their comically bloated abdomens, it would be amazing if they were able to get off the ground even if they had larger wings. If handled and squeezed, they employ a chemical defense that will blister your skin …so better to observe and not touch.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 4/10/20 at the Point of Rocks trail near Alberton, MT.
Cow Path Tiger Beetle (Cicindela purpurea audubonii)
This shiny beetle can range in color from green to purple, and is often called the Purple Tiger Beetle. They are widely distributed across North America, except for in the SE and parts of the SW US. These insects are FAST. Tiger beetles have been clocked running at 1.38 feet per second (about 29 body lengths). That may not sound like a lot, but factoring in their size, it’s similar to a grizzly bear running over 135 miles per hour. They actually run so fast, that they outrun the capacity of their eyes and brain to process what they are seeing fast enough …so they literally run themselves blind and need to stop, look around and then continue their pursuit of their prey.
Photo by Kristi DuBois on 4/10/10 at the Point of Rocks trail near Alberton, MT.
European Ground Beetle (Carabus nemoralis)
These European transplants, introduced roughly 150 years ago, are now widespread in their North American range. Flightless and nocturnal, they prowl gardens, yards and open, wooded areas, for soft-bodied invertebrates. Have a slug problem? These guys might be able to help you out! Stretching up to an inch long, they are easily observed on pathways and bare patches of soil by flashlight and porchlight from April until fall… and occasionally during the day to get their picture taken.
Photo by Brady Schwertfeger on 4/7/20 in Missoula, MT.
White-Spotted Sawyer, male (Monochamus scutellatus)
This long-horned beetle can be found in coniferous forests across North America, especially in the northern U.S., upper Midwest and much of Canada. The males have one white spot at the front of the elytra (wing covers). Females have other white spots throughout the lower portions of the elytra. Males have ridiculously long antennae to help them better find a mate. Photo by Heather McKee on 9/29/19 in Missoula, MT.
Oil Beetle (genus Meloe)
Based on the time of year this strange looking beetle was found, we believe it might be Meloe impressus. During April and May, you can find the similar looking Black Meloe (Meloe niger). As you might guess from their short-stubby wings, the adults are flightless ground-dwellers. With their comically bloated abdomens, it would be amazing if they were able to get off the ground even if they had larger wings. If handled and squeezed, they employ a chemical defense that will blister your skin …so better to observe and not touch. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 9/22/19 in Yellowstone National Park.
European Dung Beetle (Aphodius fimetarius)
While only about .25 inches in length, you should be thanking this and other dung beetle species for their tireless work. Although this particular species is a non-native from Eurasia, they lend a helpful hand in dealing with horse, cow, and other herbivores’ poop. We’d be in a pile of trouble without them. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 9/22/19 in Yellowstone National Park.
Megasemum asperum (no common name)
This sizable beetle is about an inch in length. They can be found from June into September throughout western North America (as far south as Sonora, Mexico) and are attracted to lights at night. The preferred host tree species is Douglas-fir. This is the only species in this genus in North America. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 9/16/19 in Missoula, MT.
Pine Sawyer Beetle (Trichocnemis speculates)
This is the largest beetle in Montana. They can be found in forested areas of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine (their principle hosts) throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Females lay eggs in cracks of suitable logs or stumps from tress that have recently been felled or killed by fire. They do not attack live trees. The larval stage typically takes 3 to 5 years until pupation and the emergence of the adults that garner so much attention. And at up to 3.5 inches in length, that attention is well deserved. Interesting fact — the mature larvae have gnawing jaws that inspired the invention of the chain saw. Photo by Marirose Kuhlman on 7/24/19 in Florence, MT.
Yellow Velvet Flower Beetle (Cosmosalia chrysocoma)
These golden, fuzzy-looking beetles can be found from Canada to Northern Mexico, mainly in the western part of North America. They range in size between 1 to 2 centimeters. Adults feed on flower pollen while the larvae feed on dead and decaying wood of hardwoods and conifers. Photo by Carolyn Taber on 7/13/19 in Seeley Lake, MT.
Metallic Wood-boring Beetle (genus Anthaxia)
There are about 40 different species of beetle in this genus across the United States. The individuals pictured here might be in the subgenus Melanthaxia. While they are only about 3 to 8 millimeters in length, you tend to notice these small beetles since large numbers of the adults can be found on a single flower. They inhabit coniferous forests where the larvae bore into the branches of trees that are already injured, dying or dead. Photo by Ellen Knight on 7/15/19 in Missoula, MT.
Gold-and-brown Rove Beetle (Ontholestes cingulatus)
This beautiful beetle is one of our largest rove beetles (at 19mm) and appears to be a rare find in Montana. They can be found across Canada and in the eastern and northwestern US. They are often found on dung, smaller carrion, decaying fungi, and in compost piles. The yellow color on the last 3 abdominal segments (and underneath the thorax) comes from iridescent hairs. They will often carry the yellow tip of their abdomen upward when walking. Photo by Cedar Mathers-Winn on August 30, 2018 in the Bitterroot Valley.
A beetle in the genus Donacia
This beautiful beetle was observed skimming across the surface of a mountain lake. The adult beetles feed on aquatic vegetation above the surface of the water. Their larvae feed on the submerged portions of aquatic plants where they also “tap” into the plants stems to get the air they need to live underwater — sort of like creating your own snorkel. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/16/18 near Condon, MT.
Ten-lined June Beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata)
At up to 1.5 inches in length, these beetles are hard to miss when they are around. These large beetles can be found across the western half of North America. When disturbed, they make a hissing sound by rubbing their abdomen against the inside of their wing covers. They are attracted to lights at night. Photo by Morgan McNeill on 8/20/18 in Missoula, MT.
California Root Borer, male and female (Prionus californicus)
This rather large species of long-horned beetle can grow to over 2 inches. The way to quickly determine male from female is by the antennae. The antennae of males are very saw-toothed (and about 2/3 the length of the body). Females have more slender and shorter antennae. They can be found throughout western North America and feed primarily on living deciduous trees (cottonwood). Their lifecycle takes between 3 to 5 years to complete. Photo of male by Siren Ambush on 8/10/18 in western, MT. Photo of female by Erin Mills on 8/12/18 in Lolo, MT.
Pine Sawyer Beetle (Trichocnemis speculates)
This is the largest beetle in Montana. They can be found in forested areas of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine (their principle hosts) throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Females lay eggs in cracks of suitable logs or stumps from tress that have recently been felled or killed by fire. They do not attack live trees. The larval stage typically takes 3 to 5 years until pupation and the emergence of the adults that garner so much attention. And at up to 3.5 inches in length, that attention is well deserved. Interesting fact — the mature larvae have gnawing jaws that inspired the invention of the chain saw. Photo by Sandy Olson Arnold on 8/10/18 in Missoula, MT.
Metallic Woodborers (family Buprestidae)
A walk through the Rice Ridge Fire area near Seeley Lake revealed a trio of beautiful metallic woodborers doing what they do …finding dead or dying trees in which to lay their eggs. These beetles don’t attack healthy trees. From left to right: 1) the larvae of the Golden Buprestid (Buprestis aurulenta) take between 2 to 4 years to mature and emerge as adults. However, there are instances when the larvae become trapped in milled lumber, where they can take from 20 to 40 years to emerge. They’ve been documented emerging from furniture, wood paneling, cutting boards and more; 2) the Western Sculptured Pine Borer (Chalcophora angulicollis) was just recently separated as an individual species from its eastern relatives; 3) Buprestis lyrata — not much is known about their life history. The beetles are reported to occur in Canada from B.C. east to Nova Scotia, and south through the mountain regions of the western United States. Photos by Glenn Marangelo on 7/22/18 near Seeley Lake, MT.
A Blister Beetle (family Meloidae)
We can say with certainty that this is a blister beetle. Based on its shiny appearance, it may be the Ash Blister Beetle (Linsleya sphaericollis). Adults are known to feed on a wide variety of plants, including those from the family Asteraceae — which includes the tansy pictured here. If squeezed, the adults will ooze chemicals that can blister your skin as a defense. Photo by Heather McKee on 7/19/18 in Missoula, MT.
Western Eyed Click Beetle (Alaus melanops)
These large beetles (with noticeable eyespots) inhabit coniferous forests and are typically found from June through July. Their larvae live in dead or dying tress and feed on the larvae of woodborers that feed on pine. Along with 5 other click beetles in this genus, they have a spine on the underside of their thorax, which fits into a groove on their chest. If threatened, the beetle can quickly snap the spine into the groove, creating an audible “click” that also launches the beetle into the air. Photo by Kristi DuBois on 6/24/18 in Missoula, MT.
Cottonwood Leaf Beetle (Chrysomela scripta)
The adults and larvae (pictured here) of this beetle like to feed on willows, poplars, and (as you might guess) cottonwoods. They can be found throughout the US, including Alaska, in areas where there host plants exist. The adults overwinter and emerge in early spring to begin feeding on the new leaf growth. Females will lay lemon-yellow colored eggs in clusters of between 15 to 75 eggs on the underside of leaves. Depending on the latitude, they can have from two to several generations a year. Photo by Lisa Winn Cloo on 6/8/18 in Clinton, MT.
Western Sculptured Pine Borer (Chalcophora angulicollis)
This beautiful species of metallic woodborer beetle was recently separated as an individual species from its eastern relatives. They can be found in coniferous forests in western North America and lay their eggs on the bark of large branches or the trunks of conifers. They are noisy fliers and hard to miss. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/25/18 in Missoula, MT.
Weevil in the genus Sphenophorus (likely Sphenophorus cicatristriatus, the Rocky Mountain Billbug)
This rather large species of weevil feeds upon grasses and is considered a pest of Kentucky blue grass in parts of Rocky Mountain region and the Northern High Plains. So …if you are someone who maintains an immaculate lawn or owns a golf course, you might not be happy to find this insect. But we love it all the same. Photo by Morgan McNeill on 5/20/18 in Lolo, MT.
Western Tiger Beetle (Cicindela oregona)
The western tiger is slightly smaller than our other tiger beetles in Montana (only 11 – 13 mm). Their color can vary from brown, green, purple to black. They are active in May and June (mating), with the next generation appearing in late summer and fall. This beetle seeks out sandy, muddy habitats along rivers and has a 2-year lifecycle with both adults and larvae overwintering. Like other tiger beetles, these guys run extremely fast …so fast that they outrun the capacity of their eyes and brain to process what they are seeing. They literally run themselves blind and need to stop, look around and then continue their pursuit of their prey. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/13/18 in Missoula, MT.
Garden Carrion Beetle (Heterosilpha ramose)
Unlike many other carrion beetles, which are rarely found far from an animal carcass, the garden carrion beetle will also eat decaying vegetation. They are common in western North America and can often be found on lawns. Adults are attracted to lights at night. Photo by Heather Minopolis on 5/12/18 in Missoula, MT.
A Species of Rove Beetle (faimly Staphylinidae, possibly in the genus Platydracus)
There are over 4,100 species in this large family of beetles. Most of them are predators, many of which are beneficial predators of pest insect species. They can range in length from about one-eighth of an inch to nearly an inch. Adult rove beetles can often be found on animal carcasses where they eat the other insects feeding on the carcass. Although they have wings and can fly, they usually prefer to run along the ground. Photo by Angie Wild on 5/12/18 in Missoula, MT.
Carrion Beetle in the genus Nicrophorus
These colorful black and orange beetles are commonly called Sexton beetles or Burying Beetles. While you can find several species in MT, we are leaning toward Nicrophorus vespilloides – the Boreal Carrion Beetle. The adults demonstrate amazing parental care of their young from egg to larvae. They find a small dead animal, bury the carcass, lay eggs on it, and continue to feed the emerging young regurgitated carrion. As pictured here, these beetles typically have mites on them. This is an example of a symbiotic relationship where the mites feed on fly eggs that may be on / near the carcass, which would hatch into maggots and eat the beetle larvae’s food. In turn, the beetle provides the mites with “transportation” to predictable sources of carcasses (and fly eggs) that would otherwise be difficult for them to find. Photo by Kyle Hartse on 8/19/17 near York, MT.
A scarab beetle in the genus Osmoderma
It’s difficult to determine the exact identification of this interesting beetle, but it is either the Hermit Flower Beetle (Osmoderma eremicola) or Osmoderma subplanata. One way to attempt a positive ID would be to give it a sniff. Osmoderma eremicola is said to smell like leather. These beetles are associated with rotten wood from dead or dying trees, especially oak, maple, elm, apple, cottonwood, cherry, and hickory. Adults are typically found from July to September. Photo submitted by Taylor Chenette on 8/11/17 in Missoula, MT.
Flower Longhorn Beetle (Xestoleptura crassicornis)
While we’re pretty confident we’ve positively identified this species of longhorn beetle, little information exists on their habits. There are over 25,000 species of longhorn beetles worldwide. They are aptly named (with antennae often as long as or longer than their body) and are often colorful (iridescent green, black and yellow, black and red, etc.). Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 8/6/17 in Missoula, MT.
Ten-lined June Beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata)
At about an inch in length, these beetles are hard to miss when they are around. When disturbed, they make a hissing sound by rubbing their abdomen against the inside of their wing covers. Males have large feathery antennae that help them find a mate. Adults feed on tree foliage and the larvae feed on roots of shrubs/trees. They are attracted to lights at night and are often found under the lights during the day. Photo by Jean Wilkerson Woessneron 7/21/17 in Missoula, MT.
White-Spotted Sawyer, male (Monochamus scutellatus)
This long-horned beetle can be found in coniferous forests across North America, especially in the northern U.S., upper Midwest and much of Canada. The males have one triangular white spot at the front of the elytra (wing covers). Females have other white spots throughout the lower portions of the elytra. Photo by Karen Weaver on 7/8/17 in Missoula, MT.
Golden Buprestid (Cypriacis aurulenta)
These beautiful beetles can be found throughout the western U.S. and Canada. They tend to focus on lightning killed trees, where the larvae take between 2 to 4 years to mature and emerge as adults. However, there are instances where the larvae become trapped in milled lumber, where they can take from 20 to 40 years to emerge. They’ve been documented emerging from furniture, wood paneling, cutting boards and more. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 7/6/17 near Florence, MT.
Pine Sawyer Beetle (Trichocnemis speculates)
This week we received two reports of this large beetle — the largest beetle in Montana. They can be found in forested areas of Douglas Fir and Ponderosa Pine (their principle hosts) throughout the Rocky Mountain region. Females lay eggs in the cracks of suitable logs or stumps. The larvae develop in trees that have recently been felled or killed by fire. They do not attack live trees. The larval stage typically takes 3 to 5 years until pupation and the emergence of the adults that garner so much attention. And at a length of up to 3.5 inches, that attention is certainly well deserved. Interesting fact: The mature larvae of the Pine Sawyer have gnawing jaws that inspired the invention of the chain saw. Photo by Jennifer Boyer on July 8, 2017 in Missoula, MT.
California Root Borer, female (Prionus californicus)
This rather large species of long-horned beetle can grow to over 2 inches. The way to quickly determine male from female is by the antennae. The antennae of males are very saw-toothed (and about 2/3 the length of the body). Females have more slender and shorter antennae. They can be found throughout western North America and feed primarily on living deciduous trees (cottonwood). Their lifecycle takes between 3 to 5 years to complete. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 7/3/17 in Missoula, MT.
Red-femured Milkweed Borer (Tetraopes femoratus)
This species of beetle’s life is associated with showy milkweed. They can be found throughout the western U.S. (west of the Mississippi). The larvae bore into milkweed stems and overwinter in the roots. Adults emerge in mid to late summer. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 7/2/17 in Missoula, MT.
Trichiotinus assimilis
a species of flower scarab beetle. It can be found across the US from coast to coast, primarily in the north. Adults feed on flowers while larvae feed on decaying stumps, logs and branches of deciduous trees. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 6/27/17 in Missoula, MT.
Yellow Douglas-fir Borer (Centrodera spurca)
As the name suggests, these long-horned beetles largely feed on douglas-fir. Hey can be found in the west from British Columbia to Utah. The larvae feed underground on roots and take two years to finally emerge as an adult. Photo by Megan Robson on 6/22/17 in Missoula, MT.
Dimorphic Flower Longhorn, female (Anastrangalia laetifica)
This beautiful species of longhorn flower beetle was happily feeding on ocean spray pollen. They are found in western North America. The males tend to be all black / brown in color. The females (shown here) are red with black spots. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 6/27/17 in Missoula, MT.
Long-Horned Beetle
With extremely long antennae, this aptly named long-horn beetle is likely a White-Spotted Sawyer (Monochamus scutellatus). The photo was captured just before the beetle took flight …showing us the elytra (wing covers) “lifted” to allow the wings to unfold for flight. It was found by one of our amazing board members. Photo by Lisa Verlanic Fowler on 6/20/17 in Missoula, MT.
Western Sculptured Pine Borer (Chalcophora angulicollis)
This beautiful species of metallic woodborer beetle was just recently separated as an individual species from its eastern relatives. This was found by one of our youngest bug explorers, Emma. Photo by Minnette Read on 5/28/17 in Missoula, MT.
Click Beetle (genus Selatosomus)
A Click Beetle in the genus Selatosomus — If you’ve never seen a click beetle and have wondered how they got their name, just gently pick one up …you’ll soon know why. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/10/17 in Missoula, MT.
Blister Beetle (genus Meloe)
these large beetles are also referred to as “oil beetles” because they release oily droplets of hemolymph from their joints when disturbed. This substance contains a chemical that can blister your skin. So if you see one, flight the urge to pick it up. Photo by Caroline Lonski on 5/18/17 in Missoula, MT.
Cowpath tiger beetle (Cicindela purpurea)
These beautiful tiger beetles can be found from grassy hillsides to forest clearings (anywhere vegetation is sparsely covering the ground). They vary in color from black to purple to green. Adults overwinter, mate, and die off by mid May. You can find the next generation in late summer. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/12/17 near Drummond, MT.
Long-lipped tiger beetle (Cicindela longgilabris)
As you can see from the incredible mandibles on this beautiful tiger beetle, they are very capable predators equipped with what appear to look more like swords, rather than mouthparts. Combined with their incredible speed, tiger beetles are other insects’ worst nightmare, easily chasing down their prey. In fact, tiger beetles are so fast, they actually outrun the capacity of their eyes to process images. They run toward their prey so quickly, they temporarily “go blind” and must stop to be able to see their intended victim and readjust the attack. Photo by Glenn Marangelo on 5/4/17 in Missoula, MT.
Knapweed Root Weevil (Cyphocleonus achates)
Similar to the European Skipper (included in this post), the knapweed root weevil is also an exotic species. However, in this case it was introduced on purpose to help combat another exotic species — knapweed. Females lay their eggs on the top of the knapweed’s root crown. Once they hatch, the larvae burrow into the plant’s root, destroying the vascular root tissue and preventing the plant from transporting water and nutrients. Death of the plant can occur within two years. Research at Montana State University has shown up to a 99% reduction in knapweed density as a result of knapweed root weevil introduction. Go weevils! Photo by Sally Carlson on 8/2/16 along Flathead Lake.