The figeater beetle, also known as the green fruit beetle or western green June beetle, is a member of the scarab family. These beetles can occasionally become a nuisance in gardens and orchards, as they are attracted to ripe fruits. In order to understand what attracts figeater beetles, it is important to consider their behavior and preferences.
One of the primary attractions for figeater beetles is ripe fruit. These beetles have a strong preference for fruits that are soft, sweet, and in the process of ripening. They are particularly drawn to fruits such as figs, peaches, plums, and grapes. The beetles are capable of detecting the odors released by these fruits from a distance, which leads them to locate and feed on the ripe produce.
Apart from fruits, figeater beetles are also attracted to the odors of manure and fermenting fruit. These odors, which are similar to the scents emitted by ripe fruits, are highly appealing to the beetles. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect these odors from considerable distances, often flying long distances in search of the source.
I have personally encountered figeater beetles in my own garden, and their attraction to ripe fruits was quite evident. Whenever I had a fruit tree with ripe produce, such as figs or peaches, the beetles would gather in large numbers, feasting on the fruits. The buzzing sound made by their wings and the sight of them swarming around the trees was both fascinating and frustrating as a gardener.
To further understand what attracts figeater beetles, it is important to consider their natural habitat and behavior. These beetles are native to western North America and are commonly found in areas with a warm climate. They are most active during the summer months when fruits are abundant. The beetles are attracted to areas with ample food sources, such as orchards, gardens, and compost piles.
In addition to food sources, figeater beetles are also attracted to suitable breeding sites. The female beetles lay their eggs in soil, typically in areas with decaying organic matter. This can include compost piles, rotting wood, or even manure. The beetles are drawn to these areas for both feeding and reproduction purposes.
To summarize, figeater beetles are attracted to ripe fruits, as well as the odors of manure and fermenting fruit. Their keen sense of smell allows them to locate these food sources from a distance, and they can fly long distances in search of them. Understanding these preferences can help gardeners and orchard owners take measures to protect their ripe produce from these occasional pests.
