Darkling Beetles in Phoenix, AZ
Eleodes spp.
Darkling beetles (a.k.a. desert stink beetles) are common in Arizona yards. Learn how to identify and manage them.
Notes: From a Phoenix, AZ Exterminator
Appearance
Darkling beetles are dull black to dark brown, about half an inch to an inch, with a somewhat rough, textured shell. Several desert species are known for a defensive "headstand" posture when threatened.
Harborage
They're common in desert landscaping, under rocks and debris, and are most active at night, occasionally wandering indoors through open doors or gaps.
Are They Dangerous?
They don't bite or sting, but when threatened, some species release a foul-smelling defensive fluid (hence the nickname "stink beetle"), which can irritate skin.
Treatment
Sealing gaps and reducing exterior lighting attraction limits indoor sightings. Antidote Pest Solutions can provide perimeter treatment for larger outdoor populations. Talk to one of Antidote Pest's Service Pro's today.
Prevention Tips
Fix outdoor lighting to reduce insect attraction near entry points
Remove decaying wood, leaf litter, and organic debris from the yard
Seal cracks around the foundation and doors
Store bird seed, pet food, and grains in sealed containers
Keep gutters clean to prevent decaying plant matter buildup
Behavioral Notes
When threatened, many darkling beetle species — including the desert 'stink bugs' common in Arizona — do a distinctive headstand, raising their rear end in the air before releasing a foul-smelling defensive chemical.
Some darkling beetle species can survive over a year without water, surviving purely on moisture extracted from the dry plant matter and detritus they eat.
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