10/31/2026
American oil beetles (Meloe americanus) are a species of blister beetle that is most often seen late in the year, often active through November.
These dark blue-black insects are unable to fly and scurry across lawns, sidewalks and roads as they look for a suitable place to spend the winter. They feed on all plant parts except roots.
If you find these beetles, do not handle them. They exude a product known as cantharidin, that can cause skin irritation.
