What kind of beetle is this - Ask Extension
This huge beetle with weird antennae is sitting on our sliding door screen. The body is 1-3/4” long
Knowledgebase
What kind of beetle is this #880091
Asked August 04, 2024, 1:58 AM EDT
This huge beetle with weird antennae is sitting on our sliding door screen. The body is 1-3/4” long
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
Hello,
This is a California prionus beetle. They are native insects and most of their life cycle is underground. The larvae can take up to 5 years to develop feeding on tree roots. They can damage some fruit and nut trees, but often also feed on decaying roots.
https://ceventura.ucanr.edu/Gardening/Coastal/Landscape_578/Pests/Prionus_Beetle/
The adults emerge this time of year and can be alarming to those not familiar with them. We have received many questions about them recently.
Thank you for using Ask Extension!
This is a California prionus beetle. They are native insects and most of their life cycle is underground. The larvae can take up to 5 years to develop feeding on tree roots. They can damage some fruit and nut trees, but often also feed on decaying roots.
https://ceventura.ucanr.edu/Gardening/Coastal/Landscape_578/Pests/Prionus_Beetle/
The adults emerge this time of year and can be alarming to those not familiar with them. We have received many questions about them recently.
Thank you for using Ask Extension!
Thank you so very much!
