Beetles (Order: Coleoptera) are
fascinating and beautiful insects
with various species and unique characteristics. You may spot them in your garden or home.
Beetles are small, tough bugs that come in many colors, shapes, and sizes, from tiny like a grain of rice to as big as a person’s thumb. They have a shiny, hard shell called elytra that protects their wings and gives them a smooth or bumpy texture.
Beetles have three body parts: the head, thorax (middle part), and abdomen (end part). They also have six legs, antennae on their heads, and strong jaws called mandibles for eating and defending themselves. Beetles can be black, brown, green, red, or even shiny and metallic.
Beetles exhibit a wide range of behaviors. Many species are herbivores, feeding on plants, while others are predators, preying on other insects. Some beetles are scavengers, consuming dead plants and animals, which helps in nutrient recycling in ecosystems. They are known for their hard exoskeletons and wings, which often hide under protective covers called elytra.
There are over 350,000 species of beetles.
Common types of beetles include ladybugs, known for their pest control benefits; weevils, which are notorious for damaging crops; and fireflies, famous for their bioluminescent properties. Each type has adapted uniquely to its environment and role within the ecosystem.
Effective beetle control starts with properly identifying and understanding the species causing issues. Here are some general steps for beetle removal:
Learn more ways to deal with our DIY Beetles removal guide.
A. Asian lady beetles are sometimes confused with friendly, lucky red ladybugs. While ladybugs are helpful because they eat bad bugs outside, Asian lady beetles are more aggressive and bother crops and people.
A. You can use natural repellents like peppermint oil, cedar oil, cloves, and bay leaves to keep beetles away. Sprinkle these oils or leaves around your home to deter them. If the problem persists, consider contacting a pest control expert for assistance.
A. Beetles generally don't attack people, suck blood, or spread diseases. Some species may bite lightly without causing serious harm, like Longhorn beetles and root borers. However, certain beetles like the blister beetle are toxic, and others like the bombardier beetle can spray harmful substances.
A. When a beetle bites, it usually looks like a small red bump on your skin, similar to a mosquito bite. It might itch a bit and make that spot swell up. Just wash it with soap and water and use a cold cloth to make it feel better. If it hurts a lot or gets really swollen, seek medical help.
A. Beetle poop, also called frass, can look like tiny dark or brown pellets. It's usually very small and can be found near where beetles live or feed.
A. Common beetles in the US include ladybugs (ladybird beetles), known for their red or orange bodies with black spots, Japanese beetles with metallic green and coppery-brown colors, ground beetles found in gardens and under rocks, carpet beetles that damage fabrics and food, and Colorado potato beetles with yellow and black stripes.
A. A carpet beetle infestation appears as small irregular holes in carpets and fabric items. You may also notice larvae or shed skins around. Adult beetles are small, oval-shaped, and can vary in color. Infestations typically occur in dark, undisturbed areas like closets or attics where larvae feed on fabrics. If you notice beetle infestation in your home contact expert beetle control service.
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