I’ve put out fermented bait (rotten fruit, etc.) to attract butterflies and moths. However, for the last three nights I’ve been surprised to find an ivory-marked beetle (Eburia quadrigeminata) that has come to feed. This is the first one I’ve ever seen and I think it’s quite handsome. It apparently doesn’t bite, although I didn’t test it.
The larvae burrow into and feed on dead wood. They normally stay in the wood for 2 years. However, they can emerge from furniture or hardwood flooring after 25 or more years. I’m glad to add this beetle to our list of backyard insects.
What a cool-looking beetle!
I’ve never seen that one before….guess I’ll need to set out a fruit feeder and try my luck 🙂
Judy, they apparently are nocturnal and, according to what I read, also come to lights. Hope can see.
Beautiful insect and beautiful photography.
Sara, I don’t get any credit for the beetle, however I agree with you and appreciate your feedback on the photography.
Your photograph is SO much nicer than the one in your link. It’s so much nicer to see a beautiful live creature than a dead one. Thanks for your patience in getting these photos and sharing with the rest of us.
Thanks for noticing the difference, Keli.