Blister Beetles Pretty colors, serious powers:

🌿🐞 Did you know about Nuttall's Blister Beetles? These vibrant insects are a part of our local parks and greenspaces, often found on flowers like lupines and milk-vetch. 

🌼 While they may look beautiful with their bright colors, handling them can be risky! 

🚫 Their bodies contain cantharidin, a toxin that causes skin blistering if mishandled.

Here’s how to enjoy nature safely: 

👀 Spot them from a distance—avoid touching! 

🧤 Wear gloves if gardening or exploring where beetles are present. 

🚫 Never crush, swat or handle them roughly. 

🌱 Let’s respect their space and ours—keep a safe distance and admire their beauty responsibly!

Nature is amazing, but it’s always good to know who you’re sharing it with. Stay safe and enjoy your time in the greenspace! 🌳💚 #NatureSafety #BlisterBeetles #GreenspaceAwareness

 

Here's a concise fact sheet about blister beetles (specifically focusing on L. nuttallii, Nuttall’s Blister Beetle), tailored for park greenspace users:

Nuttall’s Blister Beetle (Lytta nuttallii)

  • Appearance: Medium-sized, brightly colored beetle often found on flowers.
  • Behavior: Feeds on leguminous plants like milk-vetch and lupine.
  • Caution: Handle with care to avoid skin contact with cantharidin, a blister-inducing substance exuded when disturbed.
  • Season: Most active in June and July, often seen in groups (circuses) on flowering plants.
  • Safety: If exposed, wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical help for severe reactions.

This fact sheet aims to inform park users about the beetle's habits, potential hazards, and basic safety measures when encountering them.

 

blister beetle, Lytta, cantharidin, insect toxin, garden pests, wildflowers, greenspace insects, wildlife interaction, beetle life cycle, flower feeders, insect defense, skin irritation, entomology, garden safety, insect identification, wildlife conservation, ecosystem balance, beetle biology, beetle diversity, North American insects, natural habitats, plant pollinators, entomological study, environmental impact, insect biodiversity, insect anatomy, insect behavior, insect ecology, beetle larvae, flower pests, insect venom, wildlife education, species conservation, garden management, insect habitats, insect protection, outdoor exploration

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