American Oil Beetle
Meloe americanus
Appears: Most active in the spring
Detrimental: These beetles feed on plants and flowers, such as buttercups. The larvae are harmful as they attach to bees at the site of the flowers and when back at the beehive, they eat the bee larvae and the bees’ food source.
More Info:
Size: 7.1 – 17 mm long
⚠️ Do Not Touch!
If the beetle feels threatened, it releases a chemical called cantharidin. This chemical creates blisters and irritates