Calling all entomologists!

by Richard on April 25, 2006

Anybody know what this little fellow might be? (Apart from blurred, obviously)

{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Kim 04.25.06 at 3:01 am: Well it’s loathsome, probably has trouble with its English, and, while in a hole, nevertheless continues to dig. George W. Bush?
2 BD 04.25.06 at 6:13 am: Possibly blue legged shining leaf beetle?
http://www.insectaculture.com/videos.htm
3 BD 04.25.06 at 6:27 am: Check the Coleoptera asection
http://www.amentsoc.org/link.htm
4 Richard 04.25.06 at 7:32 am: It isn’t loathsome! ‘Tis a lovely little beastie. And it can’t be GWB, Kim. It’s doing its own dirty work.

Thanks for those links, BD. I haven’t identified my friend yet, but they were interesting.
5 Beth 04.25.06 at 3:34 pm: Question is, are you going to name him John, Paul, George or Ringo?
6 Richard 04.25.06 at 4:11 pm: Pete, I think.

He’s the best beetle I’ve ever seen.
7 The Amateur Entomologists' Society 10.18.06 at 4:45 pm: Hi

It’s an Oil Beetle (Meloe proscarabeus). When alarmed they secrete an unpleasant smelling oil which is how they get their names. They are impressive beasts.

Hope that helps.
8 Richard 10.18.06 at 6:19 pm: That’s excellent - thank you!