Texas-eyed Click Beetle

I thought this was a beetle on a weed in the yard. It has two black dots that look like eyes, but are decoys on each side of the thorax. The head is ant-like. You can also see that underbelly is a light yellow with black spots. I was also surprised that it flew away after turning in circles when it saw me. I will post on INaturalist & Bugguide to help me get an ID. Looks like it might be a Texas Click Beetle, Alaus lusciosus https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/332657-Alaus-lusciosus

comments (6)

Ruth Spigelman

Lion

To my eyes, that certainly looks to fit the bill Deb. I love the dynamic markings and monotone colouring on these characters. Posted 4 years ago

Christine Young

Lion

Looks good to me as well. Nice find! Posted 4 years ago
1. DebRich
  
  Lion
  
  Thanks, Christine! Posted 4 years ago

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Very nice find, Deb!
Hope all is well with you? Posted 4 years ago
1. DebRich
  
  Lion
  
  Hi Ferdy, Thanks for the comment. My eye infection and eye problems are gone, yay, so I hopefully will be able to contribute a little more. We had an unprecidented snow storm in February and wildlife is getting a slow start in San Antonio. The snowstorm killed alot of tropical plants that attracted the butterflies and bees, so I am a bit disappointed with the photography opportunities. Hopefully the butterflies and bees are rebounding. I have seen a western swallowtail butterfly in my backyard which was reassuring. How are you? Posted 4 years ago
2. 1. Ferdy Christant
    
    Lion
    
    I heard about the Texas weather, such odd event. Glad you got through it, as well as your eye issues. It's still early season, hopefully the wildlife situation improves for you.
    
    I'm doing alright, thanks! Posted 4 years ago