Whether you’re a seasoned Florida homeowner or a newcomer to the Sunshine State, one thing is certain: beetles abound. With nearly 200 different species of beetles in Florida alone, it’s no wonder that homeowners often find themselves battling these pesky insects. Not only can they be invasive, but also, they can cause significant damage to the outdoor oasis you’ve worked so hard to create. But don’t fret! Here, we’ll cover some of the most common beetles found in Florida and offer some tips for protecting your outdoor space from their unwelcome presence.
1. American Carrion Beetle
The American Carrion Beetle is an oval-shaped, black beetle with red markings. Despite their name, these beetles aren’t typically found around carrion. Instead, they’re attracted to decaying fruit and vegetables, making them a nuisance for home gardeners. These beetles can also reproduce quickly, so it’s important to take swift action if you notice an infestation.
2. Asian Multi-Colored Lady Beetle
These colorful beetles are often mistaken for ladybugs, but they’re actually an invasive species from Asia that was introduced to the United States in the 1970s. While they might look harmless, these beetles can cause significant damage to crops and can even bite humans. They also attack and kill ladybugs on sight.
3. Antelope Beetle
The Antelope Beetle is a small, brownish-black beetle that’s commonly found in oak trees. They’re relatively harmless to trees and plants, but they can be a nuisance for homeowners, as they often make their way indoors in search of shelter during the colder months. This beetle is also one of the largest beetles in Florida.
4. Ant-Like Longhorn Beetle
This beetle gets its name from its resemblance to an ant. While they aren’t particularly harmful to plants or other insects, they can be a nuisance for homeowners, as they’re often found indoors in search of food and shelter.
5. American Oil Beetle
These beetles are characterized by their long, slender bodies and smooth, shiny exoskeleton. While they aren’t particularly harmful to plants, they do release a toxic oil when threatened that can cause skin irritation or blistering. They are part of a family of beetles known as “blister beetles” because of their blistering toxin.
6. Giant Waterbug
Giant Waterbugs are aquatic insects that are often found in ponds, lakes and streams. While they’re relatively harmless to humans, they can be a nuisance for swimmers and other aquatic wildlife, as they often feed on small fish and other insects.
7. Southern Pine Beetle
The Southern Pine Beetle is a particularly destructive species that’s responsible for killing large numbers of pine trees throughout the Southeastern United States. They’re relatively small (less than 1/4 inch long) but can cause significant damage to trees if left unchecked.
8. Tiger Beetle
These brightly colored beetles are often found in sandy areas near water. While they aren’t particularly harmful to plants, they can be a nuisance for humans, as they often fly around in large swarms during mating season.
While beetles can certainly be a nuisance for Florida homeowners, there are steps you can take to keep them at bay. Regularly inspecting your outdoor space for signs of infestation and promptly addressing any issues that arise can go a long way towards keeping your oasis beetle-free. And if you do find yourself dealing with an infestation, don’t hesitate to reach out to Your Oasis Outdoor Care for help. Our team of experts can assess the situation and help come up with a solution that’s tailored to your specific needs. With a little preparation and some expert help, you can keep your outdoor space beetle-free and enjoy all that Florida has to offer.
