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Leatherwing looking for love

On a warm spring afternoon, the native leatherjacket beetles were out and about looking to mate.

 

Also commonly known as plague soldier beetles, named for the mating masses of thousands that appear at certain times of the year, with the right weather conditions.

 

This native species is found in temperate southeastern areas of the country. Its grubs live in the soil, feeding on other small creatures.

 

15 body length.

 

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Uploaded on April 29, 2023
Taken on November 27, 2022