Figeater Beetle Flying: Quick Guide for Curious Minds

The figeater beetle, also known as the green fruit beetle, is a fascinating insect due to its large size and distinct buzzing sound when flying. These beetles are attracted to ripe fruit and the odors of fermentation and manure, making them a common sight around orchards and gardens during the late summer and fall months source.

Figeater beetles are capable of flying relatively long distances, allowing them to cover ample ground in search of their preferred food sources. During their flights, the beetles may become a nuisance to some, while others enjoy observing their striking metallic green or blue appearance source.

Figeater Beetle Overview

Physical Description

The Figeater beetle, also known as the green fruit beetle or Cotinis mutabilis, is an eye-catching insect with a semi-glossy, iridescent green color. It has six legs, which are used for crawling and climbing. The adults are usually seen flying around in search of fruits during warm summer months.

• Color: Iridescent green
• Legs: Six
• Size: Approximately 1.25 inches

Scientific Classification

The Figeater beetle belongs to the family Scarabaeidae and the genus Cotinis within the order of Coleoptera. Its classification is as follows:

• Family: Scarabaeidae
• Genus: Cotinis
• Species: Cotinis mutabilis

This beetle is a type of scarab beetle known for its striking appearance and preference for figs.

Life Cycle and Habitats

Eggs and Larvae

Figeater beetles start their life cycle as eggs, which are usually laid in soil or mulch. The eggs hatch into white grubs called larvae, which feed on organic matter like decomposing plants or overripe fruit. Some characteristics of the larvae include:

• White color
• “Crawly back” appearance
• Preference for damp environments

Examples of suitable habitats for larvae include compost piles and leaf litter.

Pupa and Adult Beetle

After some time, the larvae will pupate into the pupa stage. This stage typically occurs during the winter months, as the grubs will find shelter inside the soil. As they transform into adult figeater beetles, their color and appearance change. Here’s a comparison table of their features:

Adult beetles have a preference for overripe fruits and are known for their flying abilities. They can be commonly found in gardens and orchards, feeding on fruits like figs, peaches, and plums. They contribute to pollination, making them essential for certain plants.

By understanding the life cycle and habitats of figeater beetles, we can better appreciate their role in the ecosystem and learn how to coexist with them in our gardens and orchards.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Preferred Fruits

The diet of the Figeater beetle, also known as the green fruit beetle or the green June beetle, primarily consists of ripe and overripe fruits. Some examples of their favorite fruits include:

• Ripe figs
• Peaches
• Plums
• Grapes
• Berries
• Cactus fruit

Other Foods

Aside from fruits, these beetles also consume:

• Nectar
• Sap
• Petals
• Organic material

However, they seem to have a preference for fruits in their diet. For instance, they may feed on ripe fruit like tomatoes, but their real attraction lies in the sweetness of overripe fruits. Their powerful, serrated mouthparts allow them to easily consume the softer parts of ripe or overripe fruits, leaving behind holes and damaged flesh.

While feeding primarily on fruits, figeater beetles’ secondary food sources show their adaptability and ability to benefit from multiple food resources.

Behavior and Interaction with Their Environment

Pollination

Figeater beetles, also known as green fig beetles, play an essential role in pollinating fig trees, particularly in the Southwest. These beetles visit flowers to feed on their pollen and sweet floral secretions, contributing to the pollination process. The pollination often occurs during the summer and fall months when the beetles are most active.

Loud Buzzing and Flight

Green fig beetles have a distinct buzzing sound that many people associate with their presence. This buzzing noise is particularly noticeable during their flight, as they search for food or shelter. These beetles are known to fly around outdoor spaces, often getting attracted to screens and staying in the shade of trees. The following are some characteristics of their behavior:

• Active mainly during summer and fall
• Emit a loud buzzing sound during flight
• Often found around screens and the shade of trees

When comparing green fig beetles’ flight to other similar insects, the following table can be helpful:

In conclusion, understanding the behavior and interaction of figeater beetles with their environment helps us appreciate their role in pollination and their distinct summer and fall presence, characterized by loud buzzing sounds during flight.

Natural Predators and Pest Control

Birds and Chickens

• Birds: Many bird species are natural predators of figeater beetles, helping to reduce their population in your lawn or garden.
• Chickens: Chickens love to eat figeater beetles, particularly in Mexico, where these beetles are more prominent.

Raising chickens in your backyard can be an effective way to control figeater beetles. They will happily devour beetles they find on leaves or in your garden’s soil. For example, a flock of free-ranging chickens can assist in keeping beetle populations in check.

Chemical Control

Chemical control might be necessary when natural predators are insufficient in controlling the beetles. Here are some pros and cons of using chemical control methods:

Pros:

• Effective in reducing figeater beetle populations
• Can protect vulnerable plants like corn

Cons:

• May harm beneficial insects or predators
• Requires careful application to avoid harm to non-target organisms

In summary, using natural predators such as birds and chickens can be an effective and environmentally friendly approach to controlling figeater beetles. However, if their presence becomes overwhelming, resorting to chemical control methods might be necessary. Always try to opt for eco-friendly and targeted solutions to ensure minimal impact to other organisms within the ecosystem.

Figeater Beetles in Gardens and Orchards

Compost and Organic Matter

Figeater beetles, also known as green fruit beetles (Cotinis nitida), are a type of scarab beetle commonly found in the southwestern United States. They belong to the flower chafers subfamily and are often mistaken for June bugs or June beetles, such as Popillia japonica. Figeater beetles are attracted to overripe fruits, decaying organic matter, and manure, which is why they are commonly found in gardens and orchards with compost piles or manure piles.

These beetles lay their eggs in compost, manure, or decaying plant matter. Larval stages feed on decomposing organic material, benefiting the natural decomposition process.

Here are some characteristics of figeater beetles:

• Appearance: Metallic green head and body with a coppery sheen and a large, broad shape.
• Size: Adults can measure up to 1.25 inches long.
• Flight: Capable of flying long distances in search of food sources.
• Damage: Adults are known to consume ripe and overripe fruits, causing damage to fruit trees.

Managing Infestations

Infestations of figeater beetles in gardens or orchards can be managed by reducing their access to food sources and suitable breeding sites. If you notice a significant population increase, consider the following actions:

1. Remove overripe fruits: Regularly harvest ripe fruits and remove any fallen, overripe fruits. This will help to prevent the beetles from feeding and laying eggs in your fruit trees.
2. Maintain compost piles: Turn compost piles regularly and keep them covered, to prevent beetles from laying eggs in the organic matter.
3. Reduce manure at sites: Manage and maintain manure piles to minimize the attraction of figeater beetles.
4. Install window screens: To prevent beetles from entering homes or greenhouses, install screens on windows and other openings.

While figeater beetles can cause some damage to gardens and orchards, they play a helpful role in the natural decomposition of organic materials. Being mindful of their presence and managing their population through the methods mentioned above can help strike a balance between their ecological benefits and potential harm to your plants.