The Bumblebee Scarab Beetle is not a bee and it does not sting though it looks like a bee in every way. Just like a bee, it has hair on its abdomen, on the pronotum, and even between the eyes. The beetle’s dark brown wing coverings are just the right size to be mistaken for bee wings. The beetle’s true wings are tucked under, hidden and protected. It flies, visits flowers, and sits quietly on foliage and fingers. Short antennae separate into little clubs, and reveal the insect’s true family of origin. At the very least, such convincing mimicry prevents the beetle from being harassed when it is visiting flowers. Unfortunately, people may be quick to swat at it before realizing its non-threatening nature.
The worm-like larva of this beetle is called the Cranberry Root Grub. It remains underground, feeding on the roots of cranberry plants, damaging their health and productivity. The grub lingers below the soil for about a year, so prolonged feeding by a large number of them can be problematic. The appearance of adults near cranberry bogs is an indication that larvae are likely to be present.
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General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: black; yellow; brown; orange
