Clown Beetle

Subject:  flat black beetle w large jaws Geographic location of the bug:  Northeastern Washington State, USA Date: 08/27/2021 Time: 09:23 PM EDT Your letter to the bugman:  Anyone know what this beetle is? Very strange because it is so flat. With the big jaws, I would guess it might be some kind of underbark tree … Read more

Clown Beetle from Canada

Subject: Thin black insect with pinchers Location: London Ontario Canada May 10, 2016 6:42 pm HI there, found this little guy in my hallway. He can tuck all his limbs in to be protected too. The pinchers appear to be at the front or head of the insect. Thanks for your help. Signature: Does not … Read more

Clown Beetle with Phoretic Mites

Subject: Infested Beetle Location: grand rapids michigan May 15, 2015 11:21 pm I found this beetle on a log after dark. Its about the size of an index fingernail and just about as flat as one. The thing that I found really interesting is that its belly is covered with what appear to be aphids. … Read more

Clown Beetle

Subject: Unknown stump decayer!! Location: Wellington, CO September 22, 2012 10:54 pm While investing our cottonwood stump, we pulled off some of the bark and found this little fellow!! Details, 3 mm in length, 2 mm in width, 1 mm when flat against the trunk!! I’ve been through the Bug Guide but still have not … Read more

Clown Beetle with Phoretic Mites

Beetle with babies Location: Hudson Valley NY November 8, 2011 3:49 pm Found this during the freak October snowstorm. This was during a power outage so I had to light it with a flashlight, otherwise I would have had better pictures. What is it? Have never seen one before. It was a beautiful glossy black. … Read more

Clown Beetle and Mites

Flat Black Beetle and friends Location: North East Illinois -Chicago area July 25, 2011 6:13 pm Hi Mr. Bugman, I found this lovely little creature and some of his friends taking a nap with my 5 year old today. I was wondering if you could tell me what type of beetle he is and if … Read more