Get to Know These 20 Common Beetles and Their Intriguing Behaviour

Belonging to the order Coleoptera, beetles are a varied group of insects that inhabit various regions worldwide. With more than 350,000 distinct species, they are recognized for their tough exoskeletons, which safeguard their bodies, as well as their distinctive feeding behaviours. In this blog post, we will examine in detail the 20 most common beetles you’ll encounter or hear about.

Ladybug Beetle (Coccinellidae) 

Ladybug beetles, also referred to as ladybirds or lady beetles, are a type of beetle that many gardeners and farmers adore. These small, brightly coloured insects come in various hues and patterns such as red, orange, yellow, and black. The North American seven-spotted ladybug is the most prevalent species and has a vivid red body adorned with seven black spots.

Ladybug beetles are recognized as beneficial insects due to their predatory nature, primarily feeding on other insects, particularly aphids. These soft-bodied insects extract sap from plants, damaging their leaves and stems. Ladybug beetles, on the other hand, can devour hundreds of aphids in a single day, serving as a successful form of natural pest control. In addition to aphids, ladybug beetles also feed on other pests, including mealybugs, mites, and scale insects.

Ladybug beetles are not only efficient at controlling pests, but they are also crucial pollinators. They feed on nectar and pollen from flowers, facilitating the transfer of pollen from one flower to another, leading to the production of fruits and seeds.

During fall and winter, ladybug beetles may become bothersome when they invade homes. They tend to seek shelter in warm and dry places, often found congregating on windowsills, walls, and ceilings. Although they are harmless to humans, their presence can be unwelcome.

Overall, ladybug beetles are an intriguing and beneficial group of insects that play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their colourful appearance and useful behaviours make them a preferred insect among gardeners and farmers.

Ground Beetle (Carabidae)

Ground beetles, which are found worldwide and include over 40,000 species, are well adapted to their environment, and commonly found on the ground or in leaf litter. Their flattened body shape and long legs enable them to move easily through small spaces and debris, making them effective predators.

They play a vital role in regulating insect populations by feeding on various insects, including pests such as caterpillars and snails, as well as other ground-dwelling invertebrates like earthworms and spiders. Some larger species can even prey on small vertebrates like frogs and lizards. Ground beetles possess several adaptations that enable them to be successful predators, such as strong mandibles to crush the exoskeletons of prey and chemical defences to protect them from predators.

Furthermore, some species can fly (although they rarely do) to quickly locate food. Although some ground beetles can be considered pests that cause damage to crop, gardens, or invade homes, such instances are rare, and most species are harmless and even beneficial. Overall, ground beetles are intriguing insects with diverse adaptations and behaviours, and their predatory habits play a significant role in maintaining the balance of nature.

 June Beetle (Scarabaeidae)

June beetles, also known as May or June bugs, are a type of beetle that belongs to the scarab beetle family. They are typically between 1 and 1.5 inches in length and have an oval-shaped body. Their bodies are covered in a hard exoskeleton that is typically a metallic green or bronze color, although some species may also have iridescent blue or red colors.

June beetles are commonly found in gardens and on lawns, where they feed on the roots and foliage of plants. They are especially attracted to the roots of grasses and can sometimes cause damage to lawns and other vegetation. June beetles are most active at night and are often attracted to lights, making them a common sight near outdoor lighting fixtures.

Despite their potential to be pests, June beetles also play an important role in the ecosystem. They are a food source for many animals, including birds, mammals, and other insects. Additionally, the larvae of June beetles, known as white grubs, are an important food source for some species of birds and other wildlife.

June beetles are also important in the cycle of decomposition, as their larvae help break down organic matter in the soil. This process is important for nutrient cycling and helps to maintain healthy soil.

Click Beetle (Elateridae)

Click beetles, also known as elaterids, are a fascinating group of common beetles known for their unique ability to jump. They are found all over the world and are typically medium to large in size, ranging from 0.5 to 3.5 centimeters in length.

One of the most distinctive features of click beetles is their mechanism for righting themselves when they are on their backs. This mechanism involves rapidly arching their body and then releasing it, which produces an audible clicking sound. This process causes the beetle to suddenly flip over and land on its legs, allowing it to escape predators or other threats.

The clicking mechanism is made possible by a specialized structure in the beetle’s body called a “clicking mechanism.” This mechanism consists of a spine-like structure on the thorax that fits into a groove on the abdomen. When the beetle arches its body, the spine snaps out of the groove, producing a clicking sound and releasing energy that propels the beetle into the air.

While the click beetle’s ability to jump is certainly impressive, it is not their only unique feature. Click beetles are also known for their elongated body shape and flattened appearance. They have long antennae that are often as long as their body and are used to sense their environment. Many species of click beetles are also brightly colored, with intricate patterns and markings that help them blend in with their surroundings.

Overall, click beetles are a fascinating group of insects with a range of unique adaptations and behaviors. Their ability to jump and right themselves when on their backs is a marvel of natural engineering and has helped them survive and thrive in a wide range of habitats around the world.

Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica)

Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica) are a highly invasive species that are native to Japan but have since spread to many other parts of the world, including North America. They were first introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, likely as larvae in the soil of imported plants.

Japanese beetles are a serious pest of many crops and ornamental plants, and their feeding habits can cause significant damage. They are known to feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of a wide range of plants, including roses, grapes, soybeans, and corn. These common beetles feed by eating the tissue between the veins of leaves, which can result in a characteristic skeletonized appearance.

In addition to their feeding habits, Japanese beetles also have a unique mating behavior. The beetles release a pheromone that attracts other beetles to the area, resulting in large groups or swarms of beetles congregating on plants. This behavior can further exacerbate the damage caused by the beetles, as they can quickly defoliate entire plants when present in large numbers.

Efforts to control Japanese beetle populations have been ongoing for many years. These efforts include the use of chemical pesticides, as well as biological control methods, such as the use of parasitic wasps that target the beetle larvae. However, these methods have had limited success in controlling Japanese beetle populations, and they continue to be a significant pest for farmers, gardeners, and homeowners alike.

Overall, Japanese beetles are a highly invasive and damaging species that pose a serious threat to many crops and ornamental plants. Their unique feeding habits and mating behavior make them a challenging pest to control, and ongoing efforts are needed to mitigate their impact on the environment and the economy.

Firefly Beetle (Lampyridae)

Fireflies, also known as lightning bugs, are a type of beetle that are highly recognizable due to their bioluminescent ability. They have the unique ability to produce light through a process known as bioluminescence, which they use to attract mates and communicate with each other.

Fireflies are found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They are typically found in grassy areas, forests, and other moist habitats, and they are most active during the summer months. Fireflies use their bioluminescence to find mates, with males typically flying in a distinctive pattern to attract females.

The light produced by fireflies is created by a chemical reaction that takes place in specialized cells located on their abdomens. The chemical reaction involves a substance called luciferin and an enzyme called luciferase, which combine to produce light. Different species of fireflies have different patterns of flashing, which they use to identify and communicate with members of their own species.

Fireflies are not only fascinating creatures to observe, but they also play an important role in the ecosystem. Firefly larvae are predators, feeding on other insects and sometimes even snails and worms. This makes them important for controlling populations of other insect species.

Unfortunately, firefly populations have been declining in many parts of the world due to habitat loss, light pollution, and other factors. Efforts are underway to conserve firefly populations and their habitats, including the creation of firefly-friendly habitats and the reduction of light pollution in areas where fireflies are found.

Overall, fireflies are a unique and fascinating species of beetle that are known for their bioluminescence and their important role in the ecosystem. Their declining populations highlight the importance of conservation efforts to ensure their continued survival.

Bess Beetle (Passalidae)

Bess beetles, also known as patent leather beetles, are a fascinating species of beetle that are known for their large size and distinctive shiny black appearance. They are typically found in rotting logs or in the soil, where they feed on decaying organic matter. Bess beetles are one of the few beetle species that exhibit parental care, with both males and females participating in the care of their young.

Bess beetles are sometimes kept as pets due to their interesting behavior and unique characteristics. They are highly social insects that live in colonies, with each colony consisting of a queen, several males, and numerous worker beetles. Bess beetles communicate with each other through a variety of sounds, including stridulations and tapping, and they use their strong mandibles to create tunnels and chambers in their living environment.

One of the most fascinating aspects of bess beetles is their ability to produce sounds by rubbing their wings or legs together. These sounds are often used to communicate with other members of the colony, and they can range from quiet clicks and squeaks to loud rasping and buzzing sounds. Bess beetles are also known for their strong mandibles, which they use to break down tough materials like wood and protect their colony from predators.

In addition to their unique behavior and characteristics, bess beetles also play an important role in the ecosystem. They are important decomposers, helping to break down dead plant material and recycle nutrients back into the soil. This makes them an essential part of the food chain, providing food for other insects and animals.

Overall, bess beetles are a fascinating and unique species of beetle that are known for their social behavior, communication skills, and important role in the ecosystem. While they may not be as well-known as some other beetle species, they are a valuable and intriguing part of the natural world.

Long-horned Beetle (Cerambycidae)

Long-horned beetles, also known as longicorn beetles, are a diverse group of beetles that are named for their long antennae, which can be as long or even longer than their body. These beetles can be found in many parts of the world, with over 25,000 species known to science. They are known for their distinctive and often striking appearance, with brightly colored or patterned bodies and long, thin legs.

Long-horned beetles are typically found in forests and wooded areas, where they feed on the bark and wood of trees and other woody plants. While many long-horned beetles are harmless and play an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers and pollinators, some species can be serious pests of trees and crops. In particular, the Asian long-horned beetle has become a major pest in many parts of the world, causing significant damage to hardwood trees.

Despite their potential as pests, long-horned beetles are also valued for their economic and ecological importance. Some species are important pollinators of flowering plants, while others are used in traditional medicine or as a source of food for humans or other animals. Additionally, long-horned beetles are important indicators of environmental health, with changes in their populations often reflecting changes in the health of the forest or woodland ecosystem.

Long-horned beetles are a fascinating and diverse group of common beetles that play important roles in the natural world. While some species can be pests, many others are valuable members of the ecosystem, providing essential services and contributing to the beauty and diversity of the world’s forests and woodlands.

Tiger Beetle (Cicindelidae)

Tiger beetles are a fascinating group of predatory common beetles that are found throughout the world. They are known for their speed and agility, which allows them to chase down prey and escape from predators with ease. Tiger beetles are often found in open, sunny areas like beaches, sand dunes, and riverbanks, where they can quickly move across the terrain in search of food.

Tiger beetles are named for their striking appearance, which often includes metallic colors and distinctive markings. Many species have iridescent green or blue bodies, while others have bright red or yellow markings. These colors and patterns are thought to play a role in mate selection and species recognition.

Tiger beetles are fierce predators that feed on a variety of insects and other small animals, including ants, flies, and grasshoppers. They use their powerful jaws and sharp mandibles to capture and crush their prey, and their lightning-fast reflexes and keen vision allow them to track and pursue prey with remarkable precision.

Despite their predatory nature, tiger beetles also play important roles in the ecosystem as indicators of environmental health. They are sensitive to changes in habitat quality and are often used as bioindicators in environmental monitoring programs. In addition, tiger beetles are important components of many food webs, serving as prey for birds, mammals, and other insects.

Tiger beetles are a fascinating group of common beetles that are known for their speed, agility, and striking appearance. They are important predators in many ecosystems, playing a key role in controlling populations of other insects and small animals. Despite their predatory nature, tiger beetles also serve as indicators of environmental health and are valued members of the natural world.

Carpet Beetle (Dermestidae)

Carpet beetles are a type of beetle that can cause significant damage to a wide variety of household items. They are often found in homes and other buildings where they feed on carpets, clothing, and other fabrics. These beetles are small and can easily go unnoticed, making it difficult to detect an infestation until significant damage has already occurred.

Carpet beetles are known for their ability to cause damage to natural fibers like wool, silk, and cotton. They feed on these materials by consuming the keratin and other proteins found in them. Over time, this can lead to significant damage to carpets, clothing, and other fabrics, and can even cause holes to form in these materials.

One of the reasons why carpet beetles are so difficult to get rid of is that they can reproduce quickly and their larvae can be difficult to detect. Female carpet beetles can lay hundreds of eggs at a time, which hatch into larvae that feed on household materials for several months. These larvae are often small and can blend in with the fibers of carpets and clothing, making them hard to spot.

To prevent a carpet beetle infestation, it’s important to take steps to reduce their access to household materials. This can include vacuuming carpets and other fabrics regularly, storing clothing and other fabrics in sealed containers, and inspecting secondhand clothing and other items for signs of infestation before bringing them into the home.

If a carpet beetle infestation is suspected, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage. This can involve the use of insecticides or other pest control methods, as well as thorough cleaning and inspection of household items. In severe cases, it may be necessary to hire a professional pest control company to help eliminate the infestation.

Carpet beetles are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and other fabrics. They are difficult to get rid of once they become established and can reproduce quickly, making them a persistent problem in many homes. By taking steps to reduce their access to household materials and implementing effective pest control methods, homeowners can prevent and eliminate carpet beetle infestations and protect their valuable household items from damage.

Stag Beetle (Lucanidae)

Stag beetles are fascinating insects that are instantly recognizable due to their large and impressive mandibles. These mandibles, which are often longer in males than in females, are used by males for fighting over territory and mates. Despite their intimidating appearance, stag beetles are relatively harmless to humans.

Stag beetles are typically found in forested or woodland areas, where they feed on sap and rotting wood. They are most commonly active during the summer months and can often be seen flying around at dusk, when they are searching for mates.

Although stag beetles are not considered pests, they are unfortunately in decline in many parts of the world due to habitat loss and other factors. In some countries, such as Japan and the United Kingdom, stag beetles are considered a protected species and efforts are being made to conserve their populations.

One interesting fact about stag beetles is that they can live for several years in their larval form, feeding on rotting wood underground before emerging as adults. This long life cycle means that conservation efforts must focus not just on adult beetles, but also on protecting their habitat and ensuring that there is sufficient food and shelter for their larvae.

Water Beetle (Dytiscidae)

Water beetles are a diverse group of common beetles that are perfectly adapted for life in aquatic habitats. They can be found in ponds, streams, rivers, and other bodies of water, where they feed on a variety of prey, including other insects, small fish, and tadpoles.

Water beetles have a number of adaptations that make them well-suited to living in water. For example, many species have flattened bodies and paddle-like legs that help them to swim through the water with ease. Others have modified antennae that allow them to detect prey even in low light conditions.

One group of water beetles, the diving beetles, are particularly adept at living and hunting underwater. These beetles have a waterproof exoskeleton that allows them to trap air bubbles and breathe underwater for extended periods of time. They are also powerful swimmers and can chase down prey with surprising speed.

Despite their aquatic adaptations, water beetles are also able to fly and can often be seen flying between different bodies of water. Some species even migrate over long distances in search of suitable habitats.

Water beetles play an important role in aquatic ecosystems, serving as predators that help to control the populations of other insects and small animals. They are also an important food source for fish and other aquatic predators.

Overall, water beetles are fascinating and important insects that have evolved a remarkable set of adaptations for living in water. By studying these insects, scientists can learn more about the complex interactions between species in aquatic ecosystems, and develop strategies for conserving these important habitats.

Rove Beetle (Staphylinidae)

Rove beetles, also known as Staphylinidae, are a fascinating and diverse family of common beetles that are commonly found in decaying organic matter, such as rotting wood or compost. They are found all over the world and make up the largest family of beetles, with over 56,000 species described. Rove beetles are often long and slender, with short wing covers that only partially cover their abdomen, making their flexible body visible.

Many species of rove beetles are predators that feed on other insects, including mites, springtails, and small caterpillars. They are known for their speed and agility, often running down their prey rather than flying. Some species have even been observed catching and eating larger prey, such as spiders and snails. In addition to their predatory behavior, some species of rove beetles are known to be important biological control agents, helping to control pest populations in agricultural settings.

One interesting feature of rove beetles is their unique defense mechanism. When threatened, they raise their abdomen and release a foul-smelling liquid from their glandular pores, deterring potential predators. Some species can even spray the liquid up to a few centimeters away.

Despite their small size, rove beetles play an important role in their ecosystems as predators and decomposers. They are also important indicators of habitat quality, as some species are sensitive to changes in environmental conditions.

Powderpost Beetle (Lyctidae)

Powderpost beetles belong to the family Lyctidae and are known for their destructive behavior. The adult beetles are small and can be difficult to detect, while the larvae are responsible for the majority of the damage. These larvae bore into hardwoods, especially oak, hickory, ash, and walnut, and feed on the starches found in the wood. This can cause significant structural damage to wooden buildings, furniture, and other objects made from hardwoods.

The larvae of powderpost beetles typically take one to two years to develop before emerging as adults. During this time, they can tunnel deep into the wood, making it difficult to detect the infestation until significant damage has been done. Signs of an infestation may include small, round exit holes in the wood, fine sawdust-like frass around the holes, and weakened or damaged wood.

To prevent infestations, it is important to properly store and treat any hardwoods that are being used for construction or furniture. This may include kiln-drying the wood or treating it with insecticides. Once an infestation has been detected, it is often necessary to remove and replace the damaged wood to prevent further damage. In severe cases, professional pest control may be necessary to eliminate the infestation.

Weevil Beetle (Curculionidae)

Weevils are a fascinating family of common beetles that are known for their elongated snouts, which are actually extensions of their heads. These snouts are used by weevils to bore into plant material and lay their eggs, and they can also be used to defend themselves against predators. Weevils are found in a wide variety of habitats, from forests to grasslands to agricultural fields.

Some weevil species are important pests of crops, fruits, and other plants, while others play an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers of dead plant material.

Despite their reputation as pests, some weevils are actually beneficial to humans, as they are important pollinators of certain plant species. Weevils have evolved many adaptations that allow them to survive in their various habitats, including specialized mouthparts for feeding on specific plant parts and strong legs for burrowing into the soil or clinging to plant surfaces. Overall, weevils are a diverse and interesting group of beetles with a wide range of ecological and economic significance.

Rose Chafer Beetle (Cetoniidae)

Rose chafer beetles, also known as rose chafers, are a type of scarab beetle that are often found on flowers, particularly roses. They have a metallic green or bronze color and are easily recognized by their shiny appearance. Rose chafer beetles can be found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.

While they are not generally considered a major pest, rose chafer beetles can sometimes cause damage to crops like grapes and raspberries. They feed on the flowers, leaves, and fruits of these plants, which can lead to reduced yields and poor-quality crops. In addition, they can cause damage to ornamental plants like roses, where they may eat the leaves and petals.

Despite their potential as pests, rose chafer beetles also play an important role in the ecosystem. They are pollinators, visiting flowers to feed on nectar and inadvertently transferring pollen as they move from plant to plant. They are also preyed upon by other insects, birds, and small mammals.

Rose chafer beetles are a fascinating and beautiful species of beetle. While they can sometimes cause damage to crops and ornamental plants, they also play an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators and prey for other animals.

Darkling Beetle (Tenebrionidae)

Darkling beetles are a large and diverse family of beetles that can be found in various habitats, including deserts, forests, and grasslands. They range in size from just a few millimeters to several centimeters in length and have a dark, shiny appearance. They are typically found in soil, leaf litter, or other organic material, where they play an important role in decomposition by feeding on decaying plant and animal material.

Some species of darkling beetles have adapted to arid environments and are able to conserve water through unique mechanisms, such as closing their spiracles (breathing holes) during the day to prevent water loss through evaporation. Others have developed behavioral adaptations to cope with high temperatures, such as burrowing into the soil during the hottest parts of the day.

Darkling beetles are often scavengers, feeding on decaying plant and animal material. They are also known to feed on fungi and some species are important decomposers of dead wood. In addition, some darkling beetles are pests of stored grains and other agricultural products, causing significant economic damage.

Despite their diverse adaptations and ecological roles, many species of darkling beetles remain poorly studied and their importance in ecosystems is not fully understood. Further research on these fascinating insects is needed to better understand their diversity, behavior, and ecological interactions.

Ground Weevil Beetle (Entiminae)

Ground weevils are a type of beetle that belongs to the family Curculionidae. They are characterized by their elongated snouts, which they use to bore into plant material and lay their eggs. They are typically found in soil or leaf litter and can be pests of various crops such as strawberries and blueberries. Ground weevil beetles can cause significant damage to crops by feeding on the leaves, buds, flowers, and fruits. In severe cases, they can stunt plant growth, reduce yield, and even kill the plant.

Management of ground weevil beetles can be challenging, as they can be difficult to detect and control. One effective method is to use insecticides, but this can have negative impacts on the environment and other beneficial insects. Other methods include cultural practices such as crop rotation, mulching, and removing plant debris to reduce the population of ground weevil beetles. Overall, it is important to monitor and manage ground weevil beetles to minimize their impact on crops.

Blister Beetle (Meloidae)

Blister beetles, a varied group of beetles distributed across many regions worldwide, derive their name from their ability to cause blisters on human skin using their toxic chemical, cantharidin. This potent blistering agent can also lead to gastrointestinal and urinary tract irritation if consumed and is produced by the beetles as a defense mechanism against predators.

Typically, brightly colored and commonly found on flowers, blister beetles feed on pollen and nectar, and some species can be pests that harm crops like alfalfa and soybeans. Despite their potential toxicity, blister beetles have been utilized in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for treating conditions such as arthritis and impotence. However, this practice is considered controversial and unwise, as blister beetles’ toxicity can be erratic and potentially harmful.

Scarab beetle (Scarabaeidae)

Scarab beetles are a diverse and fascinating group of beetles that includes some of the largest and most distinctive members of the order Coleoptera. They are found in many parts of the world and can be important decomposers of organic material, playing a crucial role in maintaining soil health. Some species of scarab beetles are known for their unique behaviors and adaptations, such as the ability of some species to roll dung into balls, which they then bury and use as food and breeding sites.

Other species are important pests of crops and other plants, causing significant economic damage to agriculture. In some cultures, scarab beetles have been revered as symbols of regeneration and rebirth, due to their association with the cycles of life and death. Scarab beetles have been depicted in art and mythology for thousands of years, and their iconic shapes and colors have inspired many artists and designers throughout history.

To sum up, these common beetles are a captivating and varied insect group that exhibit an impressive array of adaptations and behaviors. Ranging from the light-emitting fireflies to the wood-boring powderpost beetles, every species possesses distinct traits that contribute to its significance and allure. Gaining insights into these common beetles and their ecological functions can cultivate our appreciation of the vast array of life existing around us, and motivate us to safeguard and conserve it for generations to come. Whether we come across them in our gardens, homes, or during our nature hikes, these common beetles unveil the intricate and captivating realm of insects.