Glowing click beetles are fascinating insects known for their unique ability to produce light. These nocturnal creatures use bioluminescence to attract mates and possibly deter predators. Found mostly in tropical and subtropical regions, they belong to the family Elateridae – which includes other non-bioluminescent click beetles as well.
The source of their glow is a set of light-producing organs located on the underside of their thorax just behind their head. These organs contain a pigment called luciferin and an enzyme, luciferase, which react together in the presence of oxygen to produce their signature greenish glow. Next time you step into a starlit forest, keep an eye out for these remarkable little insects.
Key features of glowing click beetles include:
- Light-producing organs on their underside
- Ability to use bioluminescence to attract mates
- Presence in tropical and subtropical regions
What Is a Glowing Click Beetle?
Click Beetle Family Elateridae
Glowing click beetles belong to the family Elateridae within the order Coleoptera. This family has over 10,000 known species, and typically, click beetles are recognized by their elongated, parallel-sided bodies and their unique clicking mechanism. Their name comes from the distinct clicking sound they produce to deter predators and right themselves when turned upside-down.
Glowing Characteristics: Bioluminescence
The glowing aspect of these click beetles comes from their bioluminescence. Certain species, especially those in the tribe Pyrophorini and genus Deilelater, have bioluminescent organs that emit light. These glowing structures can be found on their thorax and head, usually in the form of two larger glowing spots resembling eyes and one or more smaller spots, depending on the species.
Examples of bioluminescent click beetles are:
- Pyrophorus noctilucus found in the Americas, particularly in Central and South America
- Deilelater physoderus discovered in the Neotropics
Distinctive Clicking Sound
The clicking sound is created by a mechanism in the beetle’s body that snaps and produces an audible click. When threatened or flipped upside down, the click beetle contracts its abdominal muscles, creating tension that will suddenly release and flip the beetle into the air with an audible click. This sound and the rapid movement can startle predators, giving the beetle a chance to escape.
A quick comparison of typical click beetles and glowing click beetles:
| Feature | Typical Click Beetle | Glowing Click Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Elateridae | Elateridae |
| Bioluminescence | No | Yes |
| Clicking Mechanism | Yes | Yes |
| Elongated, parallel-sided body | Yes | Yes |
In summary:
- Glowing click beetles are part of the large Elateridae family.
- They possess bioluminescent organs, making them glow in the dark.
- The clicking sound is used to deter predators or right themselves when turned upside-down.
Range and Distribution
United States: Texas, Florida, and Coastlines
The glowing click beetle can be found in various locations within the United States, specifically in Texas and Florida. In areas such as these, they typically reside along the coastlines. Some key features of their habitat include:
- Warm climates
- Coastal areas
- Wooded and grassy environments
Central and South America: Cuba, Argentina
In Central and South America, glowing click beetles can be found in countries like Cuba and Argentina. Their distribution in these regions can vary, but they are often found in similar environments to their North American counterparts:
- Tropical and subtropical regions
- Forests and grasslands
- Proximity to water sources
While these regions have seemingly distinct characteristics, both North American and Central/South American glowing click beetles share similar distribution patterns:
| Location | Common Habitat | Climate |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Coastlines | Warm |
| Central/South America | Forests and grasslands | Tropical/subtropical |
It is important to remember that the glowing click beetle’s range is affected by factors such as climate, available habitat, and proximity to water sources. Their preference for warm, coastal environments can be observed consistently throughout their geographic distribution from Texas and Florida all the way to Cuba and Argentina.
Physical Features
Size and Body Structure
- Glowing click beetles are elongated and parallel-sided insects.
- They have backward projections on the pronotum (the shield-like section behind the head) that helps them produce a clicking noise when distressed or attempting to right their bodies.
Click beetles’ sizes vary, with some reaching almost 2 inches in length. Their larval stage, called wireworms, can grow up to 2.5 inches.
Eyes and Thorax
- The beetle’s true eyes are relatively small and located behind their antennae.
- They have two large black spots on their thorax that resemble eyes, potentially scaring off predators.
These “false” eyes help the beetle avoid predation. A good example is the eastern eyed click beetle.
Distinctive Green Glow
- Some species of click beetles possess bioluminescence, meaning they produce light through a chemical reaction.
- The green glow is often found on the beetle’s head and thorax.
The green glow helps these beetles with various functions, such as communication and mating. The glow intensity varies among species, but it’s an unmistakable characteristic of glowing click beetles.
Comparison Table – Eastern Eyed Click Beetle and Green Glowing Click Beetle:
| Feature | Eastern Eyed Click Beetle | Green Glowing Click Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Up to 2 inches in length | Varies by species |
| Eyes | Small; behind antennae | Small; behind antennae |
| False Eyes | Two large black spots | Varies by species |
| Bioluminescence | Absent | Distinctive green glow |
| Functions of Glow | Scare off predators | Communication, mating |
Life Cycle and Behavior
From Eggs to Larvae: The Wireworm Stage
- Glowing click beetles lay eggs
- Eggs hatch into larvae called wireworms
Glowing click beetles begin their life cycle by laying eggs. After 7 to 10 days, the eggs hatch into larvae, commonly known as wireworms. These wireworms are typically hard-bodied, brownish, and cylindrical in shape, with an ornamented shield-like segment on their tail end.
Diet and Prey Preferences
- Wireworms feed on roots and seeds
- Some species prey on other beetle grubs
During the wireworm stage, the larvae feed on roots, seeds, and in some cases, other beetle grubs. This stage is crucial for their growth and development, as it provides the necessary nutrients for their metamorphosis into adult click beetles.
Adult Click Beetles and Mating
- Adults emerge after metamorphosis
- Glowing click beetles emit light to attract mates
Once the wireworms have reached the appropriate size, they undergo metamorphosis inside a pupal cell and emerge as adult glowing click beetles. These adults emit light to attract mates, which is a unique characteristic of this species.
Comparison Table: Wireworms vs. Adult Click Beetles
| Wireworms | Adult Click Beetles | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Hard-bodied, brownish | Elongated, parallel-sided, glowing |
| Diet | Roots, seeds, grubs | Predominantly plant materials |
| Purpose in life cycle | Growth, development | Mating, reproduction |
With this information, you now have an understanding of the life cycle and behavior of glowing click beetles.
Significance in Nature and Human Impact
Importance for Naturalists and Amateur Enthusiasts
Glowing click beetles are fascinating creatures that capture the interest of both naturalists and amateur enthusiasts. Their bioluminescence, often compared to that of fireflies, makes them unique within the order Coleoptera.
- Bioluminescence attracts attention
- Valuable for studying diverse natural world
Accurate information about these beetles is important for naturalists to expand their knowledge. For amateurs, observing and learning about these bugs can be a fulfilling hobby. When in doubt, always consult expert professional advice or your local extension office.
Crop Infestation and Nuisance Management
Larvae of click beetles, commonly known as wireworms, are known to cause crop infestations. They can become a nuisance for farmers and gardeners alike, prompting efforts to minimize the impact of these pests.
- Wireworms cause crop infestations
- Nuisance to farmers and gardeners
Comparison of Glowing Click Beetles and Other Pests:
| Pest | Classification | Damage to Crops |
|---|---|---|
| Glowing Click Beetle | Order Coleoptera | Moderate |
| Firefly | Family Lampyridae | Low |
| Railroad Worm | Genus Phrixothrix | Low |
| Soldier Beetle | Family Cantharidae | Low |
To effectively deal with infestations, it is crucial to identify the specific species of click beetle causing the problem. Monitoring and managing outbreaks can help minimize damage to crops and alleviate the nuisance they cause.
Prevention and Control
Pesticides and Chemical Methods
- Pesticides can help manage click beetle infestations
- Apply them according to label directions
In some cases, using pesticides can be an effective method for managing click beetle infestations. For example, certain chemicals like pyrethroids may help protect crops from damage. It’s important to carefully follow the label directions for any pesticide used.
Non-Chemical Solutions: Crop Rotation and Cultural Practices
- Crop rotation disrupts the beetle’s life cycle
- Good sanitation eliminates potential breeding sites
Using non-chemical solutions such as crop rotation and cultural practices can help prevent and control click beetle infestations in an environmentally friendly way. Crop rotation disrupts the life cycle of the beetle by removing their preferred food source, preventing them from reproducing. In addition, maintaining clean fields and good sanitation practices can help eliminate potential breeding sites for the beetles, further reducing the chances of infestation.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticides | Effective in managing infestations | May harm beneficial insects |
| Crop Rotation | Environmentally friendly | May not be feasible for all farmers |
| Cultural Practices | Can prevent future infestations | Requires consistent maintenance |
108 Comments. Leave new
I like the first photo a lot, specifically because it says “Asian steak” so close to the beetle.
We almost asked how dinner was when we responded.
what the f*** is this what little i know of click beetles has just exploded in my face i like it though 😀
Hey, I saw one of these tonight, it was cool. I took some pics and then let him go. It really lights up the night, it emits a bright orange light when flying.
Your first hand observations are greatly appreciated.
Saw this bug tonight in Pam Beach Shores, FL.
Same bug in spring hill fl. Scared the crap outta me. It was on my driveway at 0100 am.
I lived in Texas my whole life and always been outdoors, never have I seen this until tonight. Where are they from?
Here is the BugGuide map of reported North American sightings. They are also found in Mexico and Central America.
Saw this bug this morning (07/15/14) in North Miami, FL
Well I found this same bug with green eyes, I was so scared the I simply took it for a swim in the toilet and he was swimming and me and my granddaughter was screaming you must go now and the toilet was flushed …..Sabrina and Yani…….the end.
Well, this is one fashionista who will NOT be wearing ANY bugs for live jewelry. ……..EVER! I don’t care if Ralph Lauren, Anthony McQueen, Christian Dior, Coco Chanel, or the KARDASHIANS say it’s fashion!! Ainta gonna happen!!
Such closed-mindedness.
We saw several in the ditch behind our house tonight in League City TX. We held one and let it crawl on us!
Saw this bug around 8pm on August 31, 2014 in Galveston, TX. It landed on me, crawled around for a minute or so then flew off. Interesting little guy. His eyes went from partially open slits to wide open glowing. Glad to know it was for real.
Saw this tonight, NW Miami, crawling on the ceiling of my kitchen. We’ve had serious roach problem this year, and never seen one of these before, kind of freaky. Sprayed it with roach spray and didn’t seem to do anything to it. Had to use a broom to get it off my ceiling. When I stepped on it it was like it didn’t even hurt it, one hell of a hard shell. I’ve seen some really odd and really gigantic bugs traveling through the Middle East and into Asia, but for something this small, the green glow “firefly” eyes was new. Glad to see this isn’t another strange phenomenon we tend to find in Miami.
Awsome… took a video gllow in dark eyes. Ft lauderdale. fl.
Seen one today on my floor. Freaked me out!!!! It was following me…. Placed the rug over it and crunched with my foot. Really loud cracking sound the eyes were no longer glowing. Weirdest bug ive ever sen here in Miami, and weve seen some weird ones!!!!!!
I just killed one of these in Belle Glade, Florida…….
You must be very proud of yourself.
Saw this tonight in Tampa, Fla..very cool!
Oh my god their taking over! Seen my second one on the windshield of my car Today. Scoop him up on a paper and placed him on a palm tree. Just stay out of my house! Leela Miami Fl.
We saw this bug tonight. My friend thought it was a lightning bug but it had two lights. Strangest thing I’ve ever seen. I took a video of it. North Miami
Saw this bug tonight in Bradenton, FL. Thought I was going beserk when I saw the glowing “eyes”. Glad to know I’m not the only one.
Exactly… I woke up my sister to look at it when one got into my garage office. Freaky thing with its green neon lights. I’m going to pass on using these Click Beetle for jewelry but I did take a picture of it.
Heard a popping noise. Went to investigate and found this in my living room ( Corpus Christi, TX) caught it in a container which is sitting on my desk until my 11 year old wakes up ^^.
I just saw one and I’m freaking out I hit it and don’t know where it went lol I’ll be up all night looking for it!!!! I too live in Corpus Christi as well:)
I found it!!! After reading all these posts and actually googled this bug I didn’t kill it I put it in a jar so I can show my boyfriend in the morning:) Then we will put him outside so he can go find a mate:)
Saw the coolest Green Eyed glowing bug tonight in Ovklawaha Florida.
I saw this bug for first time ever tonight,and was amazed! !
What is wrong with the people out there that see something interesting, nonthreatening, and overall pretty awesome and just can’t help themselves but to kill it? I just saw one of these little guys for the first time in my life last night and I was so captivated by its intense glowing eyes I just wanted to watch its behavior. Maybe the next time you see something different, try to appreciate it instead of destroying it.
The oldest posting in our Unnecessary Carnage tag dates back to 2004, which means that from the very beginning, we found the need to educate the public about senseless killing of insects and other bugs.
Absolutely!!! That’s my opinion as well. I don’t know what is wrong with all these people killing and smashing things!! We have click beetles all over our yard this summer but they are regular I would absolutely love to see one of the glowing ones and why is it everyone keeps saying glowing “eyes”???????? the dots that glow are behind its eyes…lol
It is literally part of our evolutionary programming to increase the odds of survival by not succumbing to lethal insect bites. It is the same reason we naturally detest any other organisms that threaten us.
You know, for claiming to take the high ground here, perhaps you should do some more research into human evolution before condemning people for behaving in a completely natural way that has helped in the survival of our own species. Adoration of insects and animals that could kill us is a learned, trained trait. Please take 5 min to study some evolutionary behaviour.
It is literally part of our evolutionary programming to increase the odds of survival by not succumbing to lethal insect bites. It is the same reason we naturally detest any other organisms that threaten us.
You know, for claiming to take the high ground here, perhaps you should do some more research into human evolution before condemning people for behaving in a completely natural way that has helped in the survival of our own species. Adoration of insects and animals that could kill us is a learned, trained trait. Please take 5 min to study some evolutionary behaviour.
Saw one last week in Cuba Playa Pesquero . Mine was flying hovering right in front of me with Neon green lights. It was dark so couldn’t see its body properly ,so not sure what shape it was. Amazing it then flew down and landed below a large tree.
saw the green glow in a tall tree behind my house. at least 20 to 30 of them it was really cool. never saw them before as a florida native for 48 years. I live in venice east so keep a lookout for them!
I saw this bug in Santa Fe, Argentina around 1:25 a.m. I was going to the living room when i saw 2 small glowing “balls” in the floor. Then i turn on the light and saw that strange bug. I was so amazed that took a photo 😛
We saw a few tonight in Tampa Fl
Numerous number of these bugs in front of my house in Coral Springs. Are they related to the firefly? Harmful?
Glowing Click Beetles and Fireflies are both in the Beetle Order Coleoptera, but they are classified into different families. They are harmless.
Girl seen o e for the first time today In Coral Springs kinda “bugged”me out had to Google it I was amazed
Scared the daylightS out I’d me. Just saw 3 at 0440am. Let the dogs out and one came in. 32 yrs in this house and never seen this. I live in Hialeah FL
One was in my bed tonight!!!!!!! I’m freaking out. Thank god for my cat. Fort laud fl
Scared the daylights out of me! Never saw before.
Same here. Mine was two days after yours so I guess we missed their initial DoomsDay Invasion. We need to mobilize with an attack plan IMMEDIATELY!
Just saw my first one in my bathroom. Super freaky?
Never even heard or saw one of these little alien creepy crawlies before ever in my life until tonight making its’ way across.my bathroom floor.
Sprayed it with stuff that kills everything else instantly but not this! I have a phobia of large insects like this but live ere in Ft.Lauderdale so have to brace myself for these encounters.
It’s spooky eyes just kept glowing and as it kept squirming so I eventually squashed it under my foot. Finally it’s creepy eyes dimmed and I washed my foot. Eeeew!
Sad…just sad. I just don’t understand some people
Never even heard or saw one of these little alien creepy crawlies before ever in my life until tonight making its’ way across.my bathroom floor.
Sprayed it with stuff that kills everything else instantly but not this! I have a phobia of large insects like this but live ere in Ft.Lauderdale so have to brace myself for these encounters.
It’s spooky eyes just kept glowing and as it kept squirming so I eventually squashed it under my foot. Finally it’s creepy eyes dimmed and I washed my foot. Eeeew!
Just saw one with tiny green neon eyes. I never saw one before and my heart still palpitating. Weird but beautiful and very creepy. I stepped onit. Sorry but don’t want bugs in my home.
Me see one of dem bumboclot inna me kirchen me spray it wit beagan not a move a must irac it come from dem loom crazy any how u see dem step pon dem dat a di only ting we kill dem ras
Found one on our kitchen floor this morning Punta Gorda, FL
Tonight I saw a glowing click beetle. I am in a motorhome in a dark, damp wilderness area not far from Big Pine Key. I am on Sugarloaf Key. I immediately had to look it up and find what it is. I found it interesting, as well, that it was solitary. I could see no others around. Maybe he couldn’t clique with them.
My friend got bitten by this bug while she was in the Bahamas. I don’t know if it is the same bug but it bit her on the knee and there is a giant blister there
So, a friend told you she was bitten by a bug in the Bahamas that produced a blister, and you did not see it, and you are not sure that it is a Glowing Click Beetle?
This thing was crawling on me when I woke up at night. I am terribly afraid of bugs and now I can’t find it. I haven’t been sleeping too well for 2 nights.
I woke up from a nap and saw a giant black bug with green glowing eyes next to my face IN THE DARK i nearly pissed myself i ran outside and put it outside because i was so scared. I wouldve killed it but bugs are people too. Im not sleeping for another week i guarantee my heart is still palpitating and my stomach is inside out.
Omg I just saw one in my bathroom in the lights when my dog was eating toilet paper me and my sister close the door with lights on i don’t know where it is but I won’t be sleeping tonight ?
We just saw 2 of these click beetle bugs in belleview florida
Came home from work 11pm saw my cats playing with a bug unlike anything ever seen!!! It did fly it would jump 3 ft in air every time the cats touched it. I then got the scared of my life when u saw these weirdly beautiful and freakish sparkling green glowing eyes!!! I thought I was in an episode of X-files expecting the bug’s big momma to come out of closet and suck my brains out through MY green eyes!! Pat
I saw one early this morning. Two small lights glowing, in the dark, just under my bed. I picked it up thinking it was some small electronic device I had dropped. When I could not determine what it was, I turned the lights on to see that it was a nearly dead Beatle. I have lived in the Virgin Islands for over 25 years and have never seen nor heard of this bug. There must be something we can learn from this energy producing creature.
In spanish we call them cucullo. They are native to puerto rico but I grew up with them here in Miami every summer. They seemed to have disapeared in the 2000’s but the last couple of years they seem to be back. We consider them good luck and love to play with them. They also love to get in our houses and youll see their cute little green “eyes” walking along the floor up up the walls. 🙂
Thanks for supplying this informative comment.
In spanish we call them cucullo. They are native to puerto rico but I grew up with them here in Miami every summer. They seemed to have disapeared in the 2000’s but the last couple of years they seem to be back. We consider them good luck and love to play with them. They also love to get in our houses and youll see their cute little green “eyes” walking along the floor up up the walls. 🙂
Thanks for placing this comment on multiple postings of Glowing Click Beetles or Cucullos.
Well now, let’s just say I have a story about this bug. Last night (4/26/2017) I had a cigar on my back patio in Sunrise, FL. Had a few drinks prior so I was relaxed, it was a cool pleasant night. After about 30 mins or so I went back inside to my kitchen to make a cold cut sandwich. I finished making it and was putting the ingredients away. That’s when the floodgates from hell opened. I felt something brush on my collar bone inside of my T-Shirt. I pull the collar of my shirt with one finger and look down…. I was eye to glowing green eye with this demon spawn. I managed to somehow scoop and throw this incarnation of the anti-Christ onto the kitchen counter. That’s when I lunged for the paper towels and crashed down on this monster from the Goonies with the force and might of 1,000 tsunamis. Yet, the creature still staggered, as if it was just getting ready to go super saiyan 3 and fight back. I knew what I had to do. I saw this monster painting a pentagram with it’s guts from the previous crush. This chupacabra was trying to unleash an army of dark magic beetles from the underworld! It was time to end this battle and save the world. I called for some heavy artillery backup and carpet bombed this ghoul with the Sandal 5000. Needless to say my encounter was a matter of life and death…. And I chose to live.
They’re called “Cucullos” and are harmless! Dont know their Engish name. Kind of cool with the neon green eyes! I used to catch them as a small child in Cuba…saw them in Miami all throughout my life growing up here. My kids and now my grandkids love to ‘catch & release’ these amazing & beautiful creatures at night time, which are harmless!! ???
“Cocullo”
In another old posting, we quoted The Audubon Guide stating the Spanish name is “cucujo” which would have a similar pronunciation as “cucullo” so are you able to provide any clarity?
Saw one awhile back on a late walk it freaked me out my heart was pounding but took a picture in the dark but didn’t come out well
Then saw another tonite in Edinburg, Tx it is scary but so amazing how the eyes glow grabbed it put it on counter cus my puppy was trying to it eat it kept jumping finally got with after stopping my puppy from eating it I didn’t want nothing to happen to him ran to get my phone to get a picture but by time I got back it was gone so I looked online to see what it was my second encounter here in Edinburg, Tx never seen those before now ever in my life
Saw one awhile back on a late walk it freaked me out my heart was pounding but took a picture in the dark but didn’t come out well
Then saw another tonite in Edinburg, Tx it is scary but so amazing how the eyes glow grabbed it put it on counter cus my puppy was trying to it eat it kept jumping finally got with after stopping my puppy from eating it I didn’t want nothing to happen to him ran to get my phone to get a picture but by time I got back it was gone so I looked online to see what it was my second encounter here in Edinburg, Tx never seen those before now ever in my life
Found one of these guys crawling in our hallway in Hollywood FL after we turned out the lights. The six year old ran to get our bug cup and we caught the gentle little glower, watched him glow green for a bit, and released him in backyard. What a treat!
Hey bugsaver you released that bug and must have made his way to my house in Kendall, FL. I just saw this bug in my bathroom (hence why I’m on this website) scared me, I needed to know what the heck it was. The green lights turned on and I thoughr I was still dreaming! Lol never saw something like that on a bug before. Pretty interesting!
Saw several (20 +) crawling on my brick, on my back porch. I live in the country, South of Jourdanton, Texas (about 45 miles south of San Antonio)! Kind of creepy!!!!
had one this morning in my PANTS. Came to school oblivious of it until i felt something crawl on my leg. I jumped up and it fell out running around the class with everyone in shock. I learned one thing today: check your clothes in Florida
Tonight had one by my pool in Palm Beach Shores Florida
I just saw a click bug in Kendall, Miami. Outside.
Just saw one of these beetles in the driveway in Rockport, Texas. Thought it was a lightning bug or firefly. Shine a flashlight on it & reflective dots look regular. Turn flashlight off it has the 2 reflective dots behind its head. Fascinating!
My son and so saw this bug in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. I noticed it early this morning before we left our home for work and school. We returned home about 6:40 pm and the bug was in the same spot. According to my son, it was doing the maniken challenge.
That’s when we noticed the eyes were glowing green and I freaked. I tired spraying it with roach spray and he kept cradling after falling from the ceiling. My son and I are in my room held hostage.
My son and so saw this bug in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. I noticed it early this morning before we left our home for work and school. We returned home about 6:40 pm and the bug was in the same spot. According to my son, it was doing the maniken challenge.
That’s when we noticed the eyes were glowing green and I freaked. I tired spraying it with roach spray and he kept cradling after falling from the ceiling. My son and I are in my room held hostage.
I’ve been watching fireflies or lightning bugs for 60 some years in Texas. Near the Gulf coast and now in the Texas hill country and had not seen the luminous click beetle flying till a couple of years ago. Several were flying around our back yard and it amazed me to find out they were click beetles. I so glad they are here and brighten up my evenings.
Just saw one on my leaving room floor. I let it outside, pretty cool with lit eyes. I am in Puerto Rico.
Ever since I was little kid living in Cuba ,my mother will bring this little critters and show them to me. We moved to the United States in 1980 and have lived in Key West ever since.
Every year we would capture one of the little critters and show it to each other before sending them back to the garden. In the last few years I make it a point to find one during the month of May which is my mother’s birth month and bring one to her as one of Nature’s gifts; this year she turned 81, lives in a convalescent home and I just brought her one today in late May because I had not found one around the 11th on her birthday! WE consider this little bug a special gift between my mother and I. It is my favorite insect!
Awesome anecdote. Thanks for commenting.
Ever since I was little kid living in Cuba ,my mother will bring this little critters and show them to me. We moved to the United States in 1980 and have lived in Key West ever since.
Every year we would capture one of the little critters and show it to each other before sending them back to the garden. In the last few years I make it a point to find one during the month of May which is my mother’s birth month and bring one to her as one of Nature’s gifts; this year she turned 81, lives in a convalescent home and I just brought her one today in late May because I had not found one around the 11th on her birthday! WE consider this little bug a special gift between my mother and I. It is my favorite insect!
Corpus Christi ,Texas Sunday 7AM in my living room ,will i sleep tonight.
My cats found one in our house on Padre Island in Corpus Christi, TX. Looked like some sort of mechanical bug like out of the old movie “Batteries Not Included.” Very scary sight on the day of the eclipse.
One flew in my car in California! Scared to death – but guess it was scared to. Opened all the car windows and I guess he flew out. This must be a migration from the hurricanes. Ugh!
This is definitely an unusual California sighting since BugGuide only reports U.S. Glowing Click Beetle sightings from Texas and Florida.
Used to catch them all the time when I was a kid in Laredo TX
Saw this bug in North Miami, FL
Saw one this morning in my hallway. Very creepy. I’m in Miami Florida. My only instinct was to step on it.
Cool bug! I saw it tonight in Sanibel Island, FL. Couldn’t believe it when I saw the two green “Electronic” looking “eyes”.
6-6-’18, We just seen this glowing bug ‘n a tree last night, maybe what your calling the “Glowing Click Beetle” after dark here ‘n Dumfries Virginia at Prince William Forest RV Campground. We NEVER seen this before-pretty owesome I must say. They were only ‘n 1 tree & there were around 25-30 of them. I hope a couple hitch a ride on our travel camper to home~WV, I’d like to see them ‘n our back yard trees. wvamtgal@aol.com 🙂
Saw one near Siesta Key – Sarasota, FL – very cool bug to find!
Just saw one in Galveston TX. My cat caught it, then ran like hell when he saw the glowing eyes. Cool bug, but pretty intimidating. I can see why they call them Click beetles. They click when they jump. I killed it, just in case it was an alien bug.
I had one last night walking on the floor in my house and since it didn’t look like a roach I gently pick it up with toilet paper and put it outsight and that’s when it started glowing! I was fascinated and let it walk over my hand to have a closer look and finally put it on top of the garbage can where it walked to the end and flew away into the dark glowing as bright and beautiful. I don’t understand why many people kill them instead of trying to see the beauty of nature. Location North Miami, FL
I am currently trying to find one that flew at my face in my bathroom here in Homestead, FL. I have never seen anything like it. It’s nice to know they are harmless but I definitely don’t want it near me
In a bit of back-peddling doubt about the true definition of “harmless” we might have to retract that position. Imagine a similar situation involving a person who is far more high-strung than you who overreacts while in a compromising situation. That person could fall from a great height, or onto a large sharp object, or into the arms of a theretofore future ex-spouse, and each of those situations is far from harmless. A large, loud, glowing-eyed creature of the night heading for your head can be quite frightening looking.
I was woke up last night because of my dog walking around. I looked down and had two glowing green lights moving across the floor. Maggie my dog kept looking at me, like what the …… I caught it with paper towel and it is a click beetle. Never have seen one before in ODESSA, TX.
I’m from Cuba. In Cuba there is a bunch of these insects. Kid use to collect them and put them in a jar to illuminate the night, and then set them free. Beautiful memories that will never come back, And yes just like in Puerto Rico they mean good luck, so if you see one don’t kill them. They are harmless.
Saw a glowing click beetle today. On paradise island, bahamas. Very cool.
Saw this bug just now, Galveston County TX in my house. Freaked me out a little bit.
I’m in Clear Lake, TX and woke up to this weird clicking. My cat pinpointed the source for me. I just thought it was another roach so I sprayed it’s long black body with roach spray. IT’S LITTLE GREEN EYES TURN ON LIKE LEDs AND STARTS JUMPING AROUND. Now I’m even more terrified than before so I just kept dousing it until it stopped moving. At one point I thought it was some mechanical spy bug too!!!!!! Good to know they’re harmless for next time.
I’m currently lying in bed in a thatched hut treehouse on a beach in Vanuatu and there are glowing green eyes everywhere! They fly, and are wandering through the roof!! Reassured by this post of pretty green lights of nature rather than scary bug 🙂
Just saw one outside our house in Indialantic florida.
I had to go get my camera on this one. I saw these two green lights in a flower pot one night in Uvalde, TX. I had never seen one and thought it was very interesting After videoing it, I looked it up. It is definitely a strange sight and a first for me.