The Surge of Figeater Beetles in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is experiencing an influx of figeater beetles, also called green fruit beetles or Cotinis mutabilis. These striking, metallic-green beetles are creating a buzz, especially due to their noticeable crashes into people. Standing about an inch tall, these beetles are large and difficult to ignore.

Understanding Beetle Behavior

According to Megan Barkdull, assistant curator of entomology at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, the beetles’ clumsy trajectory is linked to their size. Their bulky bodies and relatively small wings make maneuvering difficult, leading to their frequent collisions with people.

A common myth suggests that these beetles are blind, but their eyesight is actually normal. Figeater beetles peak in Los Angeles during August, as indicated by data from iNaturalist, a citizen science app. Their presence increases from June, peaks in July, and gradually subsides by fall.

A Versatile Diet and Expanding Habitat

Figeater beetles belong to the scarab family and have a diet consisting of soft-skinned fruits such as figs and grapes. Their population is not limited to Los Angeles; they have expanded geographically. By 2009, sightings reached Utah, and by 2012, Colorado. Southern California remains their native range, but their numbers have likely grown in this area.

Megan Barkdull credits this beetle growth to human activities. Compost piles, which are prime habitats for their larvae, and the irrigation of lawns and gardens have provided ideal conditions. Fruit trees offer additional food sources, and climate change allows them to thrive in more areas.

Ecological Role and Misidentification

Despite their appetite for fruit, figeater beetles are not deemed pests. Karey Windbiel-Rojas of the University of California’s pest management program explains that they tend to consume decaying fruit and organic compost matter. Their larvae contribute to the ecosystem by breaking down decaying materials.

Figeater beetles are often mistaken for Japanese beetles, which are destructive to crops and ornamental plants. However, Japanese beetles are not prevalent in California, and prompt action is taken to eliminate them if identified.

Handling Beetle Intrusions

If figeater beetles enter your home, it’s best to gently return them outside. Smashing them is messy, and pesticide use is discouraged, says Windbiel-Rojas.

Sharing her personal experience, Windbiel-Rojas recalled how she encountered these beetles at UC Irvine while with her son. One landed in her hair, while another headed for her salad. Despite initial surprise, she demonstrated composure, catching the beetle bare-handed and assuring others of its harmlessness.