I took these pictures of a spotted rove beetle (platydracus maculosus) at the beginning of this month, but I saw what I think may have been the same (individual) beetle again yesterday. My main reason for thinking that is that I found it in exactly the same spot as last time.
Rove beetles don’t seem to be very well known and it wasn’t easy finding any information that was specific to this species. I found out about them when this spring’s flooding drove them out of their usual cover, and now I seem to be keyed in to them because they’re very unique looking and I find them cute.
I am always impressed by your ability to handle these creatures.
I SHOULDN’T be, but I am.
I suppose you must have some idea of the critters to steer clear of.
Nasty biters or stingers for example.
Thank you for sharing.
Yeah, I usually like to have SOME idea what something is before I just pick it up… But just because an insect can sting me doesn’t necessarily mean I won’t pick it up. If it stings involuntarily, though… (like certain caterpillars.)
Also worth mentioning: many rove beetles will try to convince you they can sting you by curling their abdomen around like a scorpion.