How to Identify a Beetle Bug
- 1). Look for a hard, armor-like set of forewings that cover the back of a beetle. Scientists call these wings "elytra" and they are designed to protect the wings beetles use for flying. This trait will give you the best clue that an insect is a type of beetle.
- 2). Observe how the elytra almost always meet in a straight line on a beetle's back. They will cover the hind wings to the point that you will not be able to see the wings when the elytra are in this position.
- 3). Use a magnifying glass to study the antennae. Although the antennae on various species might differ in shape, the vast majority of beetles have an antennae comprising 11 separate segments. Few beetle species have more than 11 segments in their antennae, while some might have as few as two.
- 4). Employ your magnifying glass to look at the eyes. Most beetles possess large and obvious compound eyes made up of many lenses.
- 5). Watch how a beetle flies. These insects are typically poor fliers, typically going only from one low point on a plant to another. They will remind you of an overloaded plane in the way they erratically steer through the air. Some species require time to prepare for flying, while others must climb to a higher spot to take off.
- 6). Examine the mouthparts of a beetle. Most have a design that allows the beetle to chew things such as other bugs, leaves and bark. Beetle larvae always have mouthparts made for biting rather than sucking.
- 7). Scrutinize any larvae that you encounter. Beetle larvae usually have a hardened head area, a soft body and lack wings. Remember that when you break open a rotten log or tree and discover larvae, they are probably some species of beetle.
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