These large beetles (with noticeable eyespots) inhabit coniferous forests and are typically found from June through July. Their larvae live in dead or dying trees and feed on the larvae of woodborers that feed on pine. Along with five 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.

Size: 20 – 35 mm

Photos by: Glenn Marangelo on 8/14/22 near Clinton, MT