There are thousands of beetle species, some of which might be living in your very own backyard!
While you may not want to go bug hunting just yet, there’s no reason you shouldn’t learn more about the different types of beetles that could be living nearby.
The beetles described below are among the most common types of beetles in Idaho that you may encounter in the state.
You should know what they look like and their habitats to identify them if and when you see one!
Idaho isn’t just home to humans and their pets – the state also hosts a wide variety of plants, animals, and insects that call this place their home.
One insect you may encounter in your travels around Idaho is the beetle.
Beetles have evolved into thousands of different species to fill every niche of the food chain and ecosystem on Earth.
Read on to learn about some of the types of beetles in Idaho.
1. Water Penny
The first on the list of the types of beetles in Idaho is Water Penny. This is a type of beetle found on the coastlines and inland water areas of the Pacific Northwest.
This beetle is usually brown in color, with an oval-shaped body that is about two millimeters long. They are most commonly seen flying, hovering over the water’s surface to drink.
Furthermore, water penny beetles are one member of the aquatic beetles family. This family includes other insects such as Tumbling Water Beetle (Dytiscus marginalis), Lady Bird Beetle (Cycloneda sanguinea), and Devil’s Coach Horse (Ocypus olens).
Unlike these other beetles who spend their whole lives underwater, Water Penny only spends their larval stage there. They hatch from eggs laid on water plants or stones near water areas.
2. Metallic Ground Beetle
Vivid Metallic Ground Beetles are types of beetles in Idaho that live primarily on the ground. They are most common in forested areas and can be found in any type of habitat, including urban areas.
These beetles are black with white spots, giving them an amazing iridescent sheen. The Vivid Metallic Ground Beetles have a distinctive warning coloration which they use to warn predators away from their bodies.
3. Vietinghoff’s Ground Beetle
Vietinghoff’s Ground Beetle (Carabus vietinghoffii) is a type of beetle that lives on the ground.
It is usually found near streams and ponds but can also be found in damp grassy areas. This comes third on our list of Idaho’s different types of beetles.
Moving on, this beetle has four subspecies, all with similar physical features. This beetle is usually between 1.5 and 2 inches long and has a black body with brown wings that are about .25 inches Longlife.
4. Three-lined Potato Beetle
The Three-lined Potato Beetle is an invasive species in the state of Idaho. It is a pest that feeds on plants, including potato crops, other vegetables, and fruit trees.
The beetle is native to Europe and Asia but has been found in North America since 1888.
Additionally, they are reddish brown with three black stripes on their wing covers. They are about 1/4 inch long and have a wide body (1/2 inch). Their eggs are yellow and spherical-shaped.
These types of beetles in Idaho lay clusters of eggs on leaves during June or July, depending on location.
The larvae hatch in August or September and eat the leaves before they pupate and then emerge as adults later that fall.
5. Striped Cucumber Beetle
Striped Cucumber Beetle (Acalymma vittatum) is one of the types of beetle in Idaho. The striped cucumber beetle is a pest of cucurbit crops, including pumpkin, squash, and melons.
With that said, it is found throughout the United States and Canada. A native to North America, it was first detected in the southeastern US in 1892. It was first detected in California.
6. Squash Lady Beetle
Idaho is home to many different types of beetles, the most common being the Squash Lady Beetle.
The Squash Lady Beetle (Epilachna borealis) is a small beetle that feeds on common plant pests and can be found all over North America. These beetles are usually yellow and black, with a distinctive pattern on their backs.
In fact, they are often mistaken for ladybugs because they both have the same basic body shape and coloring. But the ladybug has only six spots on its back, while the squash ladybeetle has up to ten.
The Squash Lady Beetle, one of the beetles in Idaho, is named for its preference for eating slugs. This also makes it good for gardeners who deal with pest issues in their crops or fruit trees.
7. Signate Lady Beetle
Lady beetles are known to be beneficial insects as they prey on different types of pests. One type of lady beetle that can be found throughout the state is the signate lady beetle (Hyperaspis signata).
This species is typically brown with black stripes but can vary from orange to red. The size and markings help determine which type it is.
Another way to identify this species is by looking at their antennas, which have a distinct Y-shape.
There are many other types of beetles in Idaho, such as the American burying beetle (Nicrophorus americanus), tiger beetles (Cicindelidae), tumbling flower beetles (Tenebrionidae), and many more! Don’t stop reading now!
8. Seedcorn Beetle
Idaho is home to a wide variety of beetles, the most notable among which is the seedcorn beetle. This beetle can be found throughout the U.S.
Its scientific name, Stenolophus spp., derives from a Greek word meaning crowned. The beetles have a distinctive black-and-white pattern on their thoraxes that looks like an old-fashioned pillbox hat.
Furthermore, they are about 1/4 inch long and are also called striped beetles or weevils. The larvae are yellow with black spots and can inflict serious damage on crops.
They feed on corn kernels and burrow into the ground to pupate during winter months. They are also one of the types of beetles in Idaho!
9. Sculptured Pine Borer Beetle
Speaking about the different types of beetles in Idaho, Idaho is a haven for beetles.
The sculptured Pine Borer Beetle (Chalcophora virginiensis), which is found in the Eastern United States, was recently found in southern Idaho.
The beetle’s larvae bore into and kill pine trees by eating the soft inner bark, disrupting the tree’s ability to transport nutrients.
10. Black Turpentine Beetle
There are over 350 different types of beetles in Idaho, with one of these being the Black Turpentine Beetle (Dendroctonus terebrans).
The most common type of beetle found in this state is the Mormon Cricket, which has been known to cause major crop problems throughout history.
11. Scarlet Malachite Beetle
One type of beetle that can be found in Idaho is the Scarlet Malachite Beetle. This beetle is a type of rove beetle with a body length ranging from 3/8 to 1 inch long.
One notable feature of this beetle is its bright red color, which earned it the nickname scarlet lancet.
In order to survive and find mates, males will release a pheromone that signals females.
Unlike other beetles in Idaho, the scarlet malachite does not have wings but relies on its hind legs for leaping purposes.
When threatened, this beetle will curl up into a ball shape to protect itself from predators.
12. Scarlet Lily Beetle
Idaho is home to over 3,000 types of beetles. The Scarlet Lily Beetle is just one example of these numerous types of beetles in Idaho.
It gets its name from the lily-shaped scarlet markings on its back, which it acquires as a larva when feeding on lilies.
Adults are active in late summer and fall during the day, often seen crawling along leaf surfaces with their antennae extended.
These beetles may be found near water sources where they prey on aphids or nymphs of aquatic insects such as caddisflies and dragonflies.
As adults, they feed on nectar and pollen from flowers such as dandelions and goldenrod. They do this while searching for mates before laying eggs in the soil at the edge of water bodies.
13. Carites Ground Beetle
Carites Ground Beetle is a type of beetle that can be found in the state of Idaho. Carites Ground Beetle has three different subspecies and is usually found near streams, rivers, or other bodies of water.
These types of beetles in Idaho are commonly seen during the months from March to June and are about 1 inch long. Carites Ground Beetle feeds on snails, slugs, ants, and other insects such as flies and fleas.
14. Rove Beetle
Idaho is home to a variety of beetles, including rove beetles. Rove beetles are large, dark brown, and can grow up to three inches long.
They have a flat body which makes them excellent for hiding on tree bark or under rocks. They feed on other insects and are known to eat other types of beetles in Idaho as well.
Moreso, rove beetles are found across the United States and Canada, but they inhabit forests from the Sierra Nevada range all the way to northern Maine.
Rove beetle larvae resemble a caterpillar with their cylindrical shape and segmented body. The larvae also have six pairs of legs, which they use when searching for food or eating leaves on trees.
15. Rice Weevil
Rice weevils are types of beetles in Idaho. They are known to infest many types of food products, including rice, grains, and nuts.
They have been known to attack wheat as well. On the one hand, male beetles produce an odor that attracts females.
On the other hand, the female deposits eggs on the grain she is laying her eggs on, or she may lay her eggs on the carcass of a dead insect.
The eggs hatch into larvae which feed off the grain for three weeks before pupating and becoming adults. Adults will not eat; their sole purpose is reproduction.
A single female may lay up to 250 eggs in her lifetime.
16. Round-necked Long-horned Beetle
Beetles are a type of insect that can be found all over the world. They are either classified as long-horned or round-necked.
Long-horned beetles can be seen by the naked eye, whereas round-necked beetles have antennae concealed under their head and neck area.
Uniquely, round-necked long-horned beetles (M. antennata) are types of beetles in Idaho.
This species can be identified by the pattern on its wing cases, including black and yellow stripes on its outer surface and orange spots on its inner surface.
17. Rhinoceros Beetle
The Rhinoceros Beetle (Xyloryctes jamaicensis) is a large, black beetle with a distinctive white band across its head.
The Rhinoceros Beetle is found throughout the Western United States, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Meanwhile, they have an odd habit of burying themselves when they sense danger and can lay dormant for many years before emerging again.
They are often mistaken for giant cockroaches. All in all, they are also types of beetles in Idaho.
18. Red-lined Carrion Beetle
Still, on this list of the various types of beetles in Idaho, we have the red-lined Carrion Beetle. This beetle is dark brown with a velvety texture.
In addition to that, it can be found on dead animals, such as deer and cows. The red-lined Carrion Beetle (Necrodes surimanensis) is the only type of beetle that feeds on carrion.
They are attracted to the smell, land on the carcass, and then use their heads to probe for a good place to feed.
19. Red Oak Borer
The Red Oak Borer is also known as the Enaphalodes rufulus, and this is one of the types of beetles in Idaho.
In general, they are an invasive species in North America, and they were first seen on the east coast.
They are attracted to oak trees, so if you have a red oak tree and want to avoid these beetles, it may be wise to spray the bark with insecticide.
20. Western Pine Beetle
This list of the types of beetles in Idaho includes the Western Pine Beetle (Dendroctonus brevicomis).
These beetles are often found around pine trees but can also be seen around other pines. The larvae feed on sap from inside trees, which eventually kills them.
21. Red-Headed Ash Borer
The Red Headed Ash Borer (Neoclytus acuminatus) is a type of beetle that inhabits many states across the United States and is found in the Rocky Mountains.
They are known to inhabit coniferous trees, such as spruce, fir, and hemlock.
This beetle is most commonly found near rivers and lakes, but it can also be found in other types of wooded areas as well.
The Red Headed Ash Borer has been detected throughout the state of Idaho. Thereby making it one of the most popular types of beetles in Idaho.
22. Red Flat Bark Beetle
The Red Flat Bark Beetle (Cucujus clavipes) is one of the types of beetle in Idaho. It has a red-orange head, black antennae and legs, and reddish-brown wing covers.
Its coloration helps camouflage it from its predators: birds, small mammals, and other insects.
Furthermore, it’s hard to tell where the Red Flat Bark Beetle lives because it can be found inhabiting different types of habitats: forests, meadows, gardens, or even urban areas.
The thing about the beetles is that they don’t form colonies but rather individual nests on tree bark or under rocks.
The life cycle for this type of beetle is between one to two years long.
23. Predaceous Diving Beetle
These are on our list of the different types of beetles in Idaho. Predaceous diving beetles have a powerful, three-jointed beak with which they can penetrate plant stems and leaves to feed on sap or other fluids.
They are usually dark brown or black, but some species have striking metallic colors.
Moreover, their larvae typically live in water and feed on aquatic invertebrates like freshwater shrimps and snails.
But they can also live near the surface of streams and ponds, where they prey on small insects that fall into the water.
This is one example of how predaceous diving beetles use their environment for food sources.
24. Borer Beetle
Poplar Borer Beetle (Saperda calcarata) is a beetle with a black head and thorax, orange-red abdomen, and green elytra. This insect, one of the numerous beetles in Idaho, is found on poplar trees.
The larvae, also known as grubs, live under the bark or on the roots of their host tree. Poplar Borer Beetles can be found in Eastern North America from Quebec to South Carolina and west to Minnesota and Texas.
25. Ponderous Borer Beetle
The ponderous Borer Beetle, or Trichocnemis spiculatus, is not left out of the list of the types of beetles in Idaho.
This small blackish-brown beetle is about 3/4 inch long. Additionally, it has a cylindrical body that tapers down to an elongated head.
The adults are usually seen roaming on the ground, looking for prey during the day.
The larvae are up to 1 1/2 inches long and have dark heads with orange pincers at the end, which they use to catch their prey. They feed on other insects, slugs, earthworms, and snails.
26. Pine Sawyer Beetle
Pine Sawyer Beetles and Ergates spiculatus is one of Idaho’s various types of beetles. The Pine Sawyer Beetle is about a quarter inch long and has a dark brown or black body with yellowish tarsi and antennae.
Moving on, the larvae are white grubs that live mostly under the bark of coniferous trees. They eat dead wood and help decompose it.
This type of beetle is most commonly found around pine trees such as ponderosa, white, lodgepole, red and Scotch pine.
27. Ornate Checkered Beetle
While it is easy to find information on the types of beetles that inhabit most parts of the United States, many less well-known species can be found in Idaho.
For example, the Ornate Checkered Beetle (Trichodes ornatus) is one such beetle that can only be found in this region. They are characterized by their black and orange checkered pattern and black head.
These beetles feed primarily on decaying wood and animal feces, making them an important part of natural decomposition.
The larvae also serve a vital role by eating deciduous tree leaves during the winter months when other sources are scarce.
We are just getting started on this list of the types of beetles in Idaho. Let’s continue!
28. Oil Beetle
Oil beetles are not the only types of beetles in Idaho. There are various types of beetles found in the state, but this species is just one example. Oil beetles live mostly underground and feed on rotting vegetation.
They are also known for living together as a colony containing hundreds or even thousands of individuals.
One way you can identify them is by their black body with a reddish heads and legs with some white hairs.
They lay eggs that hatch into larvae before they go through four different stages to become an adult beetle. The oil beetle’s life span varies, but they usually live up to nine months.
This is if they aren’t killed off before then by predators or other natural causes such as cold weather or lack of food sources.
29. Net-winged Beetle
Net-winged beetles are small and green, and their wings are transparent.
They typically live under the bark of logs. Net-winged beetles do not fly, but they can jump with a long springing action.
Moving on, the larvae eat decaying wood, while adults feed on leaves and other plant matter. The net-winged beetle’s scientific name is Punicealis hamata. It is one of the types of beetles in Idaho!
30. Mottled Tortoise Beetle
The Mottled Tortoise Beetle (Deloyala guttata) is one of the five species that make up the genus Deloyala. This small and beautiful beetle lives throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Mottled Tortoise Beetle is a member of the Chrysomelidae family, which is made up mainly of leaf beetles.
Also, it is included in the list of the types of beetles in Idaho. It is less than 1/2 inch long and can be found on flowers, shrubs, bushes, trees, dead logs, and leaves.
They are often mistaken for ladybugs due to their orange-red coloration with black spots or mottling on their elytra.
31. Metallic Wood-boring Beetle
Idaho is home to many different types of beetles. The Metallic Wood-boring Beetle (Acmaeodera spp) is just one example.
This beetle is common to the Boise and Pocatello areas but can also be found throughout southern Idaho.
Moreso, they are most often seen on fallen logs or trees near streams or rivers during the summer months, as they feed on decaying wood.
They have a brownish-black color with greenish-gold iridescent elytra and are about 2 cm long. We are still discussing the various types of beetles in Idaho here!
32. Mealybug Destroyer
Talk about the destructive types of beetles in Idaho, and mealybugs destroyer leads the poll. These are the most common pest insects found on plants, and they can be tricky to manage.
As a result, there have been many different attempts to control these pests.
One such beetle is the Mealybug Destroyer (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri), which has been used in plant nurseries since 1910 as a biological control agent.
The adult beetles are large and black with white spots on their wing covers. They feed on mealybugs by sucking juices from them, then laying their eggs inside the host body.
The larvae hatch and feed on the rest of the mealybug before pupating and emerging from it as adults.
33. May Beetles
May beetles are a type of beetle native to the Western US. They are small and brown and look like they have a bit of body armor on them.
They typically live on plants but will also eat other small insects. May beetles mate during the month of May, which is when they get their name.
One interesting fact about these types of beetles in Idaho is that males have thicker elytra than females. This may help them defend themselves better from predators or other males during mating season.
To sum up, beetle species can vary depending on where you’re in Idaho.
But there are some general types that you might be able to find just about anywhere. These include May beetles, June bugs, June beetles, ground beetles, and rove beetles.
34. Margined Burying Beetle
We are still discussing the different types of beetles in Idaho. Idaho is home to a wide variety of beetles, some of which are not typically found in other states.
One such type is the Margined Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus mariginatus). This beetle is approximately 7-9 mm long and has a black head with orange-red edges.
The body can be either brown or black, and there are small white spots on the elytra, which are large hardened wing covers.
This type of burying beetle can be found throughout most regions in North America and Europe, but it is listed as endangered or threatened by at least one state (Idaho).
Although this type tends to prefer warmer climates, it requires a moist environment for food sources.
35. Margined Blister Beetle
Many types of beetles in Idaho can be found throughout the state, such as the Margined Blister Beetle (Epicauta funebris).
The Margined Blister Beetle is usually a black or dark brown color and is sometimes mistaken for the similar-looking Black Ground Beetle.
In contrast to this beetle, the Margined Blister Beetle has a distinctive yellow or orange margin on its wings.
Also, the Margined Blister Beetle has an oval-shaped body with long antennae with four segments. This type of beetle can be found in areas such as gardens and farms.
These are where it feeds on leaves and seeds from plants such as alfalfa, corn, soybeans, wheat, and other grains.
36. Maize Weevil
One type of beetle that lives in Idaho is the Maize Weevil. The Maize Weevil is a yellowish-brown and black beetle that is about half an inch long when fully grown.
It has two large, thick hind legs with spiny hairs and six smaller front legs.
What’s more about this particular one of the types of beetles in Idaho? The female can lay up to 300 eggs at a time, which are wrapped in a yellowish silk-like substance.
The larvae will hatch and start to eat any corn or other cereal crops it finds nearby.
This type of beetle causes significant economic damage to farms throughout the area, with some estimates estimating losses due to these beetles as high as $1 billion annually worldwide.
37. Long-horned Beetle
Idaho’s forests are home to a variety of beetles. The most well-known beetle is the long-horned beetle (Semanotus amplus) which can be found in the Boise National Forest.
These large beetles have an antenna that can grow up to four inches long and feed on decomposing vegetation and trees.
Long-horned beetles typically fly at night and are attracted to lights. They will also emit a chemical defense if threatened, but this is rare.
It usually only happens during breeding season when males defend their territory against other males. Let’s proceed with this list of types of beetles in Idaho!
38. Beetle
Larder beetles are types of beetles in Idaho that are also common household pests. They are attracted to food, animal products, and other things that people typically store inside their homes.
They can also be found in areas like grocery stores, restaurants, and meat processing plants.
You might have noticed one when you made toast with too-old bread. When the bread is heated up, it gives off a sweet smell that larder beetles find irresistible.
Although they usually don’t cause any significant damage to what they feed on.
However, they can contaminate the food with their feces and dead bodies, which may lead to illness if ingested by humans or pets.
39. Knapweed Root Weevil
With the number of types of beetles in Idaho, it is no doubt that Idaho is home to a variety of beetles.
Some you might find commonly around homes, such as the black and yellow mud dauber (Sceliphron caementarium) or the masked chafer (Cyclocephala sp.)
Other beetles live exclusively in certain habitats, including meadows and forests.
For example, the knapweed root weevil (Cyphocleonus achates) only lives on knapweed plants.
Some rare species are found only in one place, such as the sagebrush bark beetle (Pseudopityophthorus euonymi), which is native to northwestern Idaho.
Since its discovery, the sagebrush bark beetle has been found nowhere else besides this area.
40. Jewel Beetle
Jewel beetles, also called metallic wood borers, are a type of beetle found throughout the United States and Mexico.
They are usually between 0.5 to 1 inch long (1.25 to 2.5 centimeters) and have shiny colors like copper, bronze, or green with silver spots on their wing covers (called elytra).
Additionally, the larvae feed on fungi or tree roots in the ground, while the adults eat leaves and fruit from trees, shrubs, and vines.
Jewel beetles can be mistaken for other types of beetles in Idaho by their overlapping body shape and coloration.
So it is important to know your local species before you attempt to identify them.
41. Japanese Beetle
In Boise, ID, there are several types of beetles. One such beetle is the Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica).
The Japanese Beetle is a small brown insect with a white spot on its back near the head.
Also, it has four pinkish-red spots on its wing covers. This type of beetle can measure as long as 1 inch in length.
These beetles in Idaho are most active from June to August and feed by chewing through leaves and flowers at night.
42. Ivory Marked Beetle
Growing up as a kid, I remember picking up an ivory-marked beetle from the ground and being fascinated by how shiny it was.
As I got older, I learned they were called Eburia quadrigeminata. Eburia quadrigeminata are black insects with white edges around their wing covers.
They can be found on the ground or on woody plants that have been dead for some time. Idaho has three different types of beetles that look similar to Eburia quadrigeminata.
So it is important to ensure you identify them correctly before trying to identify their type.
Ivory-marked beetles can sometimes be confused with other bugs because they have very few distinguishing features.
43. Hister Beetle
Hister beetles are the beetles in Idaho found in the state. There are many different types and species, but all share the same characteristics.
Hister beetles live under logs, rocks, and leaf litter during their larval stage.
When they turn into adults, they will come out at night to eat and feed on flowers. They have dark brown or black bodies with long antennae reaching up to 3 inches long!
44. Hermit Flower Beetle
There are many beetles in Idaho, including the Hermit Flower Beetle (Osmoderma eremicola).
It is most commonly found around the Boise valley and foothills but can also be seen in other locations throughout the state.
The Hermit Flower Beetle has an orange-red body with black spots, and its head is yellow-brown.
Surprisingly, the beetle can grow up to 4 mm long, making it one of the larger beetles found in Idaho.
These beetles are nocturnal and prefer to live under rocks or logs during the day, where they are protected from predators.
At night, they come out to feed on various plants like aspen leaves and flowers such as buckwheat flowers, clover flowers, and milkweed flowers.
45. Hairy Rove Beetle
Idaho is not just home to a variety of beautiful plants and animals. It’s also home to a wide variety of beetles.
Idaho’s various types of beetles are as diverse as the country’s landscape, making it impossible to list them all here.
For example, the Hairy Rove Beetle (Creophilus maxillosus) is one type found in southwest Idaho. The Darkling Beetle (Tenebrio molitor) is found throughout the state.
46. Ground Beetle Grub
Ground Beetle Grubs are a type of beetle that lives in the ground. They can be found throughout all types of habitats, including forests and grasslands.
It is believed that they can fly as well, but they do not often do so.
Ground Beetle Grubs are likewise types of beetles in Idaho. They feed on decaying organic matter and other invertebrates.
47. Soldier Beetle
Soldier Beetles are found throughout the United States. They are called Soldier Beetles because they resemble a soldier with a suit of armor and a spear.
This type of beetle has dark brown or black wings with grayish or whitish hairs on its body.
The larvae feed on decaying matter like dead bugs and rotting wood, making them beneficial for decomposition. The adults live primarily on pollen and nectar, which is why they are pollinators for plants as well.
Above all, they are types of beetles in Idaho.
In addition to that, they are typically large and brown, with a black head and antennae. The larvae will feed on other insects, such as caterpillars or aphids.
Soldier beetles are not considered to be pests like other beetles because they do not damage plants or eat crops.
48. Marsh Beetle
We are not leaving out this insect from the list of the different types of beetles in Idaho. The marsh beetle (Scirtes orbiculatus) is a type of beetle found in the Western United States, including Idaho.
This bug gets its name from its habitat: the vernal pools and other wetlands where it breeds. The larvae hatch and then go on to live as adults elsewhere.
49. Weevil
Weevils are small beetles that are often confused with various other insects, such as ladybugs and bumblebees.
Over 500 species of weevil are known to man, with new ones being discovered all the time.
There is no real rhyme or reason for where these beetles will inhabit, but they typically prefer warmer climates.
Further, they are most commonly found throughout the southern United States, but there have been reports of their presence in Idaho and Montana.
One common type of weevil is Lixus spp., which is sometimes referred to as a pea weevil because it primarily preys on legumes like peas, beans, and peanuts.
These types of beetles in Idaho will lay eggs inside the pods on plants and eat away at the seeds after they hatch.
50. White-spotted Sawyer Beetle
Idaho is home to a variety of beetles and other insects. The White-spotted Sawyer Beetle (Monochamus scutellatus) is found throughout the United States but is not typically abundant.
The larvae eat decaying wood and can be found under bark on trees.
Additionally, they are less than 1/8 inch long and have a black body with four white spots along the thorax that form a cross shape when they are fully grown.
Adults measure between 3/8 to 1 inch long and are dark brown with white spots that may or may not cover their entire back area.
Let’s go on our list of the types of beetles in Idaho.
51. Woodland Ground Beetle
Beetles are insects with two pairs of wings, one for flying and the other for rest. They have a tough exoskeleton that is almost waterproof, hence their name, which means ‘sheath’ or ‘armor.’
Beetles live in many habitats, including forests and the ground where they burrow.
There are many types of beetles in Idaho, but one example is the Woodland Ground Beetle.
Woodland Ground Beetles like to eat decomposing plant material such as leaves and rotting logs. Their shiny black body can identify them with brown patches on their wing covers (elytra) with a white border
52. Dogbane Leaf Beetle
This beetle is dark brown with a dark head and reaches about 1.8 inches in length. The Dogbane Leaf Beetle (Chrysochus auratus) is one type of beetle you might find in Idaho.
The larvae are predaceous and feed on the larvae, pupae, and adults of leaf-eating beetles such as Chrysomelidae and Buprestidae.
As an adult, the beetle feeds primarily on the pollen of many plants, including dogbane, milkweed, and goldenrod.
This beetle is dark brown with a dark head and reaches about 1.8 inches in length.
So if you are looking for varieties of types of beetles in Idaho, here’s one of them!
53. Whirligigs
On the list of the types of beetles in Idaho is Gyrinus spp., which are insects from the order Coleoptera, suborder Polyphaga. They are commonly referred to as whirligigs or water pheasant beetles.
In addition to that, they are found primarily near bodies of water, such as lakes and ponds.
Further, Gyrinus spp. Larvae feed on aquatic plants, while adults feed on various vegetation, including grasses, weeds, and grain crops. This species can produce a painful bite if handled.
However, it is not considered dangerous to humans unless the person is allergic to insect stings or bites.
54. Drugstore Beetle
One type of beetle you might find in Idaho is the Drugstore Beetle. This beetle typically enters homes and stores through cracks, windowsills, doors, vents, and other small openings.
The Drugstore Beetle can also fly into homes through open doors or windows.
Other names for these types of beetles in Idaho are Furniture Beetle, Woodworm, Black Furniture Beetle, and Black Powderpost Beetle.
55. Dung Beetle
Dung beetles are insects that feed on other animals’ dung. In the U.S., there are over 400 species, with most belonging to the family Scarabaeidae.
This family is a large and diverse group that includes dung beetles, flower chafers, and scarabs.
Each beetle species has its own specialized diet and habitat requirements. For example, some feed exclusively on elephant dung, while others only eat bat guano.
In all, they are not only types of beetles in Idaho, but they are also very important insects when it comes to the ecosystem!
56. Dichotomius
Talking about the types of beetles in Idaho, Dichotomius is not left out.
These beetles are generally small with brown or black exoskeletons and have short antennae with knobbed ends.
57. European Ground Beetle
In Idaho, you might find a wide variety of beetles. In this list, we have discussed the different types of beetles in Idaho that you might find.
One of them is the European Ground Beetle (Carabus nemoralis).
This is one type that lives in the Pacific Northwest. It’s common to see these beetles on flowers and trees in summertime.
58. Pine Beetle
Of the types of beetles in Idaho, this is another type that lives primarily near coniferous trees and eats their bark. This, in turn, can kill the trees if left untreated.
Pine beetles are often seen during late summer or early fall, but they’re also most active at night when it’s cooler.
They’re usually found close to homes with trees nearby, which gives them a warm place to stay.
59. False Bombardier Beetle
There are many types of beetles in Idaho. The most common type is the False Bombardier Beetle, which is black or dark brown with a variable pattern of white stripes and spots.
Furthermore, it can be found on various plants, including willow, coniferous trees, and flowers like daisies.
Other types include Harlequin Bug (Murgantia histrionica) and Mexican Bean Beetle (Epilachna varivestis).
60. Festive Tiger Beetle
Festive tiger beetles are one type of beetle that is found throughout the state. They are active from spring to fall and can be found in many habitats, including grasslands, coniferous forests, desert washes, and roadsides.
These are also one of the types of beetles in Idaho.
The species name comes from a distinctive pattern on their elytra, resembling red and white paint on a Christmas gift box.
Females lay eggs in moist soil between July and October. Larvae hatch within two to three weeks and feed on plant roots before pupating underground.
61. Fire-colored Beetle
The Fire-colored Beetle (Dendroides spp.) is one of the types of beetles in Idaho. It is also called the wood roach and is typically found on the bark of trees.
Typically, this beetle will have an elongated body that is about 1/4 inch long with a dark reddish-brown color.
The head, however, will typically be a yellowish or orange color. This beetle can also have black markings on its wing covers or elytra.
The antennae are shorter than the body and are typically held close to the head when at rest.
62. Firefly
Fireflies are beetles that spend most of their lives as larvae in the ground, feeding on slugs, snails, and other small creatures.
These are types of beetles in Idaho that pupate underground and then emerge as adults with glowing abdomens.
Fireflies look like other beetles except for their abdomens which glow brightly at night.
Their light is bioluminescence caused by a chemical reaction that takes place inside the body. This happens when oxygen is combined with an enzyme called luciferase and a fuel, such as oxygen or acetaldehyde, to create light.
Fireflies are mostly found east of the Rocky Mountains, but some species can be found farther west.
63. Flatheaded Hardwood Borer
One type of beetle you might find in Idaho is the Flathead Hardwood Borer. This type was originally from Asia but has been seen more and more often in North America.
Meanwhile, it gets its name from its flat, hard head that it uses to bore into the wood and lay eggs.
The female beetles can be a variety of colors, but the males are always black. This is one of the types of beetles in Idaho.
64. Desert Stink Beetle
Desert stink beetles are a beetle found mainly in the southwest region of North America. They can be identified by their long antennae, which measure about 2 inches. And also by their dark brown body with orange legs.
These beetles are mostly found in desert areas or sandy plains and can produce a foul odor to deter predators from eating them.
If you see this type of beetle outside of an arid environment, it is most likely dying or on its way to reproducing.
There are still more types of beetles in Idaho that are coming up on this list. Read on!
65. Darkling Beetle
The darkling beetle is one of the most common types of beetles in Idaho that you may find. They are small, black, and have a hard, round back with a flat underside.
Oftentimes, they can be found on flowers and plants like dandelions or clover.
Darkling beetles mostly eat pollen and nectar from flowers, but they will also eat dead insects and fruit.
66. Dark Brown Click Beetle
Looking for the various types of beetles in Idaho? The Dark Brown Click Beetle is a type of beetle that is found in the state of Idaho.
This beetle can be identified by its brown color with dark spots on its back and a yellow/orange head.
Moving on, the Dark Brown Click Beetle feeds on plants, seeds, and other insects. This type of beetle is considered beneficial because they help with pest control and are not harmful to humans.
67. Cottonwood Leaf Beetle
The Cottonwood Leaf Beetle (Chrysomela scripta) is a type of beetle that can be found throughout the United States.
However, it is most commonly found on the East Coast and Northwest. The beetles are most active during summer and feed on plants like willow, cottonwood, and maple.
Furthermore, these types of beetles in Idaho are mostly green or brown in color, with either dark or light stripes running down their back.
This type of beetle is also sometimes called the squash beetle because they are known to attack squash plants when they are young, as well as cucumbers and pumpkins.
68. Convergent Lady Beetle
On this list, one of the types of beetles in Idaho is the Convergent Lady Beetle, also called the Hippodamia convergens.
These beetles are a part of the Coccinellidae family, which consists of over 4,500 different species.
They are commonly found throughout North America and Eurasia, but can be found worldwide. The particular species that reside in Idaho is dark red with two black spots on its back.
The Convergent Lady Beetle is also known to fly and live year-round indoors if it’s warm enough outside.
69. Colorado Potato Beetle
You might find Colorado Potato Beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) if you’re looking for the different types of beetles in Idaho.
These pests are one type of beetle that can be found on potato plants.
In addition, Colorado Potato Beetles have a yellowish-orange body with black markings and a length between 1/4 to 3/8 inch long.
They lay their eggs on the underside of the leaves, which hatch into small grubs that live off the plant’s juices and roots.
70. Click Beetle
There are a number of types of beetles in Idaho that you may tend to find. One type is the ladybug beetle or Melanotus spp. This type can be found on elms, willows, and aspen trees during summer.
What’s more about them? They feed on aphids and mealybugs. The larvae are considered pests because they eat tree leaves and leave unsightly webbing when they pupate.
71. Clay-colored Billbug
One type of beetle you may find in Idaho is the clay-colored billbug. This species, which belongs to the true bug family, is characterized by a yellow body with brown markings and is about 1⁄2 inch long.
Clay-colored billbugs are found throughout North America and are best known for their larvae’s ability to damage grain crops like corn and wheat.
Females lay eggs on the ground near fields during the spring, which hatch just after they are laid. As they grow, these types of beetles in Idaho feed on plant roots until they pupate underground.
They emerge as adults a few weeks later to continue feeding on plants until winter. This is when they seek shelter underground or under leaf litter until it warms up again.
72. Checkered Beetle
The checkered beetle is a type of beetle found throughout the U.S. But the most common species found in Idaho are Enoclerus eximius and Enoclerus erythropus.
Overall, it is not excluded from our list of Idaho’s various types of beetles.
Going further, checkered beetles are small and dark, with light spots on their wing covers. They feed on both living and dead insects.
They can fly or jump to move from one location to another, and they may emit a foul-smelling liquid when threatened.
73. Cedar Beetle
Idaho is home to different types of beetles, some of which are the Cedar beetle (Sandulus sp.), the Dermestid Beetle (Dermestidae), and the Black Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus scrophulariae).
These are all native insects that can be found in a variety of habitats. On the one hand, the Cedar beetle is most commonly found near cedar trees, hence its name.
On the other hand, the Dermestid Beetle thrives on carrion, and they are usually found near dead animals.
Lastly, the Black Carpet Beetle likes living on woolen materials, and it can be found anywhere carpets or woolen clothes are hanging out to dry.
All three types of beetles in Idaho can also be found near human habitations.
74. Case-bearing Leaf Beetle
Insects are a large part of the animal population, and beetles can be found worldwide. There are many types of beetles in Idaho, but there are some common species that you might find on your property in Idaho.
One of them is the Case-bearing Leaf Beetle (Various spp.), which can be found on leaves, flowers, and stems.
Coupled with that, these beetles are brown or black and have wide bodies with long legs. They use their large mandibles to chew away at plants to build their case and eat them for food.
Another type of beetle is the Black Vine Weevil (Otiorhynchus singularis), which has a black body and short antennae.
Read further to find out more about it and others!
75. Calligrapha Beetle
You might not know this, but there are at least five types of beetles living in the forests and grasslands of Idaho.
One of the most common beetle species is the Calligrapha Beetle (Calligrapha spp).
This type has been found worldwide and can be identified by its dark brown coloration with a patterned design on the elytra.
The Calligrapha Beetle can be found on plants and flowers like zinnias and marigolds, as well as trees like cottonwoods or elms.
These types of beetles in Idaho are often thought to be pests because they eat plants and flowers. But they’re actually important pollinators that help to keep populations healthy!
76. California Root Borer Beetle
Idaho is home to many types of beetles, including California root borers. These beetles are typically found under rocks and logs during the warmer months.
They have a dark brown body with a yellow-orange ring on their wing coverings.
Female California root borers lay eggs in crevices and cracks near the ground, which hatch into larvae that feed on roots. The larvae then pupate underground before they emerge as adults to mate and lay eggs again.
Since these types of beetles in Idaho are normally found near the ground, it can be difficult to find them.
Unless you’re looking for them or know what signs to look for, such as egg cases or larva tracks, you may not find them.
77. Burying Beetle
On this list of the numerous types of beetles in Idaho are burying beetles, also known as carrion beetles.
They will bury a dead body by moving it to a secluded location and burying it underground, where they will lay their eggs on the corpse.
The larvae will then feed off the remains before pupating and emerging as adults. They can be identified by the black mark on their elytra that looks like the letter W.
78. Blister Beetle
The blister beetle, also known as the lytta aenea, is one of the types of beetles in Idaho that you may find.
It is named for the blistering chemical it releases when threatened. The adults are typically dark brown or black beetles with long legs and antennae.
On the other hand, the larvae are yellowish-brown grubs with a slimy coating and live underground.
Another type of beetle you might find in Idaho is the staphylinid family, which includes many types like rove beetles and scarab beetles.
These insects can be found on flowers or near rotting wood. If your yard has many of these types around, it can indicate an organic soil environment.
79. Black Carpet Beetle
Some types of beetles in Idaho are black carpet beetles. Black carpet beetles are often found inhabiting dark spaces such as storage areas, closets, and basements.
They feed on various materials, including dead insects, hair, feathers, wool, and natural fibers like cotton or silk.
Black Carpet Beetles are one type of beetle you might find if you live in or visit Idaho.
If you need help determining the type of beetle which may be infesting your home, contact a pest control company. They will help to get rid of the problem before it escalates into something worse.
80. Black Vine Weevil
Black vine weevil, also known as Otiorrhynchus sulcatus, is not left out of this list of the types of beetles in Idaho. The black vine weevil is a dark brown, slender beetle with long and narrow antennae.
The adults measure up to 2 cm long and up to 0.5 cm wide, and it has an oval body shape with a flattened head and thorax (chest).
With that said, the larvae are white grubs that grow up to 2 cm long. Adults feed on the leaves of grape vines or other plants by chewing holes in the leaves or completely stripping them off the plant.
This can cause significant damage to grape vines and other food crops, such as strawberries.
They can also be found feeding on the bark of apple trees and other fruit trees, which can lead to tree death if left untreated for too long.
81. Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle
If you’re wondering what types of beetles in Idaho you may find, you’re in luck! Many types of beetles are native to the state, and one type is not.
The Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis), also known as the Harlequin Ladybird, is a species from Asia that has migrated to North America. It was introduced because it feeds on aphids and garden pests.
82. Banded Alder Borer Beetle
We are still on this list of the types of beetles in Idaho. Idaho is home to many types of beetles, from the Banded Alder Borer Beetle (Rosalia funebris) to the Strawberry Root Weevil (Pachymerus erythropthalmus).
The Banded Alder Borer Beetle is a small, black beetle with three red bands on its wing covers.
This beetle can be found throughout North America and has been known to cause damage to a variety of trees, including blueberries, alders, and birches.
The Strawberry Root Weevil feeds on strawberry plants and lives near or inside the roots. It is usually yellowish-brown or brown in color and has dark markings on its wings.
83. Banded Ash Borer
The next insect on this list of the different types of beetles in Idaho is the Banded Ash Borer (Neoclytus caprea). This beetle is found all over North America but is most prevalent on the west coast.
Females lay eggs under or near ash trees, often those that are infected with a fungus that weakens the tree.
Moving on, the larvae bore into the tree and fed on its sapwood. The adults grow to about 2 cm in length and have a black head, thorax, and elytra (wing covers).
They have white bands across their dark-brown bodies. Their coppery antennae and legs can also identify them.
84. Bee-like Flower Scarab Beetle
These types of beetles in Idaho are found primarily in the Western United States but can also be found in Eastern Canada.
They live an average of two to three years and can be identified by their black and yellow head and black body with white spots.
Adults are usually seen between June and August when they feed on flowers, fruits, nectar, or tree sap.
Did you know? There are types of beetles that have the appearance and behavior of a bee. One type, the Bee-like Flower Scarab Beetle (Trichiotinus spp.), can be found in Idaho.
They are also called flower scarabs or beetles because they can be seen hovering around flowers to feed on them.
Additionally, they are active during the day, which is when they fly to flowers and feed on pollen and nectar with their long tongue-like mouthparts.
There are three genera of these types of beetles in Idaho. They are known as Trichiotinus spp.; Trichiotinus emarginatus, T. gracilicornis, and T. flavens.
The first two species have been documented to live in North America.
85. Beetle Grub
Beetle grubs are types of beetles in Idaho that have not yet reached maturity. They are considered one of the most destructive insect pests to many tree species in North America and Europe.
The larvae feed on roots, causing the trees to weaken and eventually die.
Beetle grubs can be found just about anywhere, from forests to wooded areas, with plant material for them to feed on.
There are many different types, including the Colorado potato beetle grub, ground beetle larva, white pine weevil larva, spruce beetle larva, and more.
The best way to prevent an infestation is by keeping your garden clean. And trimming any hedges or bushes that could serve as food sources for these pesky insects!
86. Big-headed Ground Beetle
If you happen to find yourself on the banks of a river or stream, have a look for the big-headed ground beetle. The adult beetle is about 1 inch long and has brown elytra that are covered with minute pits.
The larvae feed on snails and slugs but not earthworms. Adult beetles feed mostly on plant material such as leaves, flowers, and stems.
Uniquely, the big-headed ground beetle is one of the types of beetles in Idaho and throughout most of North America east of the Rocky Mountains.
And in fact, as far north as southern Canada and south to Mexico City. It’s also found throughout Europe, Asia Minor, and Africa; it was introduced into Australia.
87. Black Blister Beetle
Black blister beetles are the last on the list of types of beetles in Idaho. Idaho is a state that has an abundance of natural beauty.
Not only do you get to see the gorgeous scenery, but you also have the opportunity to see wildlife and plant life.
However, some things can be found in Idaho that may not be as appealing to the eye. The types of beetles you may find in Idaho are black blister beetle, common ground beetle, giant water bug, green June beetle, and spotted cucumber beetle.
We end this list of the types of beetles in Idaho here!
Conclusion
Beetles are everywhere, and there are all different types of beetles in Idaho!
Here, we went over the most common beetles you might find in Idaho (and elsewhere).
These included long-horned beetles, ladybug beetles, tiger beetles, click beetles, and dung beetles.
Each one has its own unique characteristics, which we’ll describe below, along with pictures to help you identify them.
While beetles are known to be a nuisance to farmers and gardeners, many different beetles in Idaho are actually quite beneficial.
Especially when it comes to eliminating pests such as aphids, worms, and other bugs that would otherwise damage plants and crops.
Well explained above are some of the most common types of beetles in Idaho by area.
