Oil Beetle

Subject: Large black beetle looking?
Location: Central New Jersey
October 22, 2013 5:25 am
I’ve seen this bug earlier in the year during summer i believe but just noticed them more and more. I think its the same bug that eats my dogs poop and lives in the ground. Gross! What is it?
Signature: Jimbo

Oil Beetle
Oil Beetle

Hi Jimbo,
This is an Oil Beetle, one of the Blister Beetles in the genus
Meloe.  To the best of our knowledge, they do not eat fecal matter.  We believe you are confusing it with a Dung Beetle.

1 thought on “Oil Beetle”

  1. Just popped in to say that I spotted my first real live oil beetle last weekend! I was so darn excited. Glad you, Jimbo, have seen these zany beetles as well.

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