Blister beetle

Often found in gardens, grasslands, and other areas with wildflowers; adults may wander onto buildings.

Adults feed mainly on flowers and foliage; larvae develop as nest parasites of solitary bees, consuming provisions and sometimes bee eggs.

Flightless, with a soft, elongated abdomen and short wing covers. When disturbed, it can release oily cantharidin from its leg joints.

Cantharidin may blister skin and is toxic if swallowed, so avoid handling. Larvae harm some solitary-bee nests; adults may contribute to pollination while feeding.