Knowledgebase

bug identification #879455

Asked July 30, 2024, 4:00 PM EDT

Is this bug a three striped blister beetle? It was found in our garden in La Crescent, MN. My understanding is that the 3 striped blister beetles are fairly rare. Do we need to worry about nearby alfalfa which will be fed to cows and goats? Thank you. Brian

Houston County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for reaching out to ask2.extension.

Yes that is a three striped blister beetle. They are rare in Minnesota. They can definitely affect the alfalfa field.  They release a toxic that can really affect anything that eats it.

My advice would be to catch the insect and then contact your county extension agency.  It may be prudent to have the alfalfa checked for more beetles before it is cut for feed.

Deb Kroon Replied July 30, 2024, 9:40 PM EDT

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