Subject: Rare Type of Ladybug?
Geographic location of the bug: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
Date: 05/28/2018
Time: 09:34 PM EDT
Your letter to the bugman: We found this spectacular beetle on Stoney Man Mountain (~3800 ft elevation) in Shenandoah National Park. We thought it might be a rare type of ladybug/ladybird; but we have been unable to find this pattern (with black, red, and shiny gold outlining) in any guide. Can you help us ID this gorgeous beetle?
How you want your letter signed: Adam & Caleb
Dear Adam & Caleb,
This is not a Lady Beetle. It is a Leaf Beetle in the genus Calligrapha, possibly Calligrapha spiraea based on this BugGuide image.
Thank you! That looks like the perfect identification!
Best,
Adam