Dogbane beetle

Chrysochus auratus

AdultFind the right habitat

This leaf-eating beetle has a shiny coat of red and green. Look for it on dogbane plants.

Little clues

Three things to notice.

Out in the world

Around southeastern Wisconsin

Dogbane patches.

Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.

A closer look

Try looking from another angle. The colors of the shell can shift in the light.

A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.

For curious grownups, too

Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.

Make a bug slide

Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.