Box Elder Beetle

Okay, now it is time for a few random shots. This one is a Box Elder Beetle on the south side of my home. There are lots of maple trees in the area, and especially in my lot where I have planted a few because of their ability to grow so fast. They really are like giant weeds, but I still like them.

 

Anyways the Box Elder Beetles like them too, and at this time of year they are looking for a warm place to sneak into. I am happy to keep them on the outside. I guess they are harmless and do not bite or anything and really are not even considered pests if they do happen to get inside, but you are not to squish them as the reddish liquid produced can stain walls or other materials and supposedly it also really stinks. If I do find one inside it will be time for catch and release, just like the three Wasps that have come in with me uninvited.

 

Taken hand held and I am not the sturdiest so it is only kind of sharp, I am looking forward to a frost to take care of these guys, but here it is more than a week into October and still no frost. Just crazy.

Done