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Entomology (Study of Bugs)/Very Large Beetle, Never Seen In Area Before.
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Question
I have found two of these gigantic beetles, the largest I have ever seen for the first time in my life in this area. They are Large Black Beetle-like bugs, very thick. They are approx 1-1.5in in length and about 1 inch wide and the backside of these babies are about 3/4in high. They have an enormous girth.
The bugs are now located in Central Wisconsin about 30 mins outside of Milwaukee, found early in the morning crawling up the side of my house. They are a very blocky shape and rather large legs, when it walks it takes up a good 2 inches with legs moving... I have not seen any wings as of yet, I have captured one alive and have yet to see it fly off...
The first thing I thought was that it looked like a scarab beetle, but I was under the assumption it would have some kind of wing, but I havent see a pair yet. The bug is dark black with no markings that I can tell.
I can send images if requested.
Adam:
They probably are scarab beetles, or "patent leather beetles" (aka "bess bugs") which are in a related family.
I would encourage you to post images to:
http://www.bugguide.net
I visit that site almost daily, and I, or another expert, could identify a good image in a matter of hours or minutes.
Eric
http://community.webtv.net/bugeric/BugEric
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Answers by Expert:
Eric R. Eaton
Expertise
I can answer most questions related to wasps, solitary bees, grasshoppers and katydids, beetles, cicadas, and spiders, and identification of "mystery bugs" in North America. No "what bit me?" or "what do I feed this bug in captivity?" questions please.
Experience
Principal author, Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America. Professional entomologist employed previously at University of Massachusetts, Chase Studio, Inc., and Cincinnati Zoo; contract work for West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, Smithsonian Institution, and Portland (Oregon) State University.
Organizations
Entomological Society of America, National Association of Science Writers
Publications
Author, Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America, Missouri Conservationist magazine, Ranger Rick, Timeline (journal of the Ohio Historical Society). I have contributed to several books as well.
Education/Credentials
Oregon State University, undergraduate major in entomology, did not receive degree.
Past/Present Clients
Principal author of the Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America, Smithsonian Institution (contract), Cincinnati Zoo (employer), Portland State University (contract), Chase Studio, Inc (employer), Arkansas Museum of Discovery (guest speaker). Currently seeking employment in a highly creative work environment with a media corporation or non-profit.
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