Unknown Blister Beetle

Black Beetle
Location: 15 miles west of Eugene, Oregon
November 11, 2011 2:31 pm
Dear Mr. Bugman,
Could you help me identify this insect that is eating my zinnias (petals only, receptacles need not apply) with what I can only term as orgiastic abandon. Although they seem similar to blister beetles, I can handle them with no ill effects. Thank you for your input.
Yours entomologically
Signature: zekenzoey

Dear zekensoey,
While we cannot be certain of the species, we are confident that this is a Blister Beetle in the family Meloidae.  There are several black Blister Beetles in the genus Epicauta including Epicauta pennsylvanica, the Black Blister Beetle, however, it is not reported on BugGuidefrom Oregon.  The elytra appear to be too smooth to be the Punctate Blister Beetle, Epicauta puncticollis, which ranges in Oregon according to BugGuide.

  We will do additional research to see if we can determine a species.

Eric Eaton responds to our identification request
Daniel:
No, I don’t, but Jacques Rifkind might.  I thought I had his e-mail but apparently not handy.  Give me another day or so?
Eric