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Figeater Beetle

Cotinis mutabilis

The Figeater Beetle is a shiny green beetle that loves to munch on ripe figs and fruits. They are often seen buzzing around gardens and trees, making them a fun sight to spot!

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Figeater Beetle has a large, metallic emerald-green body often with dull orange-yellow markings on its head and underside. Its smooth, iridescent wing covers can appear bronze in certain light, making it a striking jewel among insects. They are notably larger than many common garden beetles.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderColeopteraFamilyScarabaeidaeGenusCotinis
Figeater Beetle
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Figeater Beetle

Category

Insects

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Adult Figeater Beetles are often heard before they are seen, flying with a loud, distinctive buzz!

Their larvae are giant C-shaped grubs that live underground for up to two years before becoming beetles!

They are sometimes called 'Green June Beetles' in some areas, though they are a different species!

When they fly, Figeater Beetles keep their hard wing covers closed, only extending their delicate hindwings!

Special abilities

Ability

Subterranean Strength

Figeater Beetle larvae can burrow deep underground because of their strong mandibles, helping them stay safe and find decaying matter.

Ability

Aerial Navigator

Figeater Beetles can fly with a distinct buzzing sound because of their large, powerful wings, helping them quickly locate ripe fruit.

Ability

Ferment Sense

Figeater Beetles can detect the scent of fermenting fruit from a distance because of specialized antennae, helping them find their next meal.

Ability

Earth Architect

The Figeater Beetle pupates in a sturdy soil chamber it builds, protecting it during metamorphosis from larva to adult.

Measurements & details

Wingspan
40-60 mm
Size
20-35 mm
Lifespan
30-60 days
Flight Speed
12 km/h
Leg Count
6

Diet & Feeding

These beetles love to feast on super ripe and decaying fruits, especially figs, and even tree sap!

Age differences: Larvae eat decaying organic matter in soil, while adults primarily consume ripe and fermenting fruits.

Primary Foods

  • Figs
  • Peaches
  • Grapes
  • Plums
  • Sap
  • Decaying Fruit

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eats

Common Fig

Ficus carica

Feasts on ripe fruit from fig trees.

eats

Peach

Prunus persica

Consumes decaying or ripe peaches.

eaten by

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

Preyed upon by opportunistic birds.

eaten by

Virginia Opossum

Didelphis virginiana

Forages for them on the ground.

Traits

Also known as

Fig Beetle

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Figeater Beetles are harmless, but it's best to watch them from a distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Figeater Beetle's wingspan?

40-60 mm

How big is Figeater Beetle?

20-35 mm

How long does Figeater Beetle live?

30-60 days

How fast can Figeater Beetle fly?

12 km/h

What does Figeater Beetle eat?

These beetles love to feast on super ripe and decaying fruits, especially figs, and even tree sap!

Where is Figeater Beetle usually found?

Urban areas

How does Figeater Beetle hunt?

Foraging

How many legs does Figeater Beetle have?

6

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Where to spot

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