Monday, April 16, 2012

Master Blister Beetle Procession


Walking with our dogs along the Santa Cruz River in Cortaro, we found dozens of 1 1/2 inch beetles crossing the road. All of them seemed to be determined to reach some unknown better place. They were Master Blister Beetles, Lytta magister.


Even mating pairs were on the move even though the females had to walk backwards. So the goal probably wasn't some super attractive pheromone source ... but then what?


Then again, the beetles probably asked a the same question watching the procession of human bikers, joggers, hikers, and even multi-species groups pass them ...Some beetles were definitely trying to get a better look




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