KENNEWICK, Wash. – Residents in Kennewick are complaining about Darkling beetles in lawns, roads, and the sides of houses.
Darkling beetles are native to Eastern Washington and are not a threat to yards, gardens or other living things.
According to Dale Jansons, Bug Guru Science Educator, the beetles are commonly found in late spring, and burrow underground in the fall to avoid the cold.
“Even if you see them, don’t worry about them,” Jansons said. “Their larva can damage big grass areas, especially out in the dry lands. Not so much your yard grass. And then the adults are scavengers of dead plants, so they won’t damage anything alive.”
Darkling beetles are often referred to as “skunk beetles” for the foul-smelling liquid they emit when threatened or killed.
Jansons said pet owners should not worry if their dogs or cats eat the beetles, but try not to let them eat too many.
Jansons suggested a simple approach to protecting homes from these beetles.
“You could do perimeter sprays, and it’ll probably keep them from getting into the yard too much,” he explained. “Personally, I would just wait it out. They’re only going to be here for a few more weeks. They don’t cause any damage. I think they’re cute.”
