Click Beetle (appears to be a typical click beetle, though specific species can be hard to determine from this image alone)
Scientific Name: Elateridae (family level, specific genus/species is difficult to determine from the image)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Elateridae
Size: Typically 0.2 to 2 inches (5 to 50 mm) long, highly variable by species.
Natural Habitat
Found in a variety of habitats depending on species, including forests, agricultural fields, gardens, and sometimes within homes, attracted to lights. Larvae live in the soil.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae (wireworms) typically feed on roots, seeds, and underground stems of various plants, including crops. Adult click beetles generally feed on pollen, nectar, or sometimes soft plant tissues, though some may not feed much at all as adults.
Behavior Patterns
Click beetles are known for their unique ability to 'click' and jump into the air when they are on their backs. This is a mechanism to right themselves. They are generally nocturnal.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae (wireworms) can be significant agricultural pests, causing damage to crops by feeding on roots and germinating seeds. Benefits: Adult click beetles are generally harmless and can contribute to pollination. Some species' larvae are predatory on other insect larvae.
Identified on: 8/26/2025