Lovebug

Commonly found in the southeastern United States, particularly around grassy areas, highways, and near decaying vegetation.

Larvae feed on decaying plant material such as dead grass and leaves. Adults feed on nectar from flowers.

Known for flying in pairs while mating, which can last for several days. They have two major flights per year, usually in late spring and late summer.

Direct risks to humans are minimal as they do not bite or sting; however, their large swarms can obscure windshields and damage car paint due to their acidic body fluids. They benefit the ecosystem as decomposers by breaking down organic matter.