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GROUND BEETLE
Ground beetles are small, dark beetles that are commonly found in soil, landscaping, and around the exterior of homes. Most species are about ¼ inch long, with a slender body, long legs, and shiny black wing covers that often appear grooved or ridged.
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It's not uncommon some years, usually in the middle of summer, for ground beetles to come out by the thousands at night and invade pools and homes across Surprise. Ground beetles are attracted to lights and will congregate on windows, porch and patio doors, and any other exterior lighted areas. Because of the sheer number of beetles, many inevitably slip inside through small gaps in the doors.​ Ground beetles do not infest homes or reproduce indoors. When they wander inside, it's only because the environment is appealing. Keeping exterior lights off and limiting the amount of light that escapes through the windows at night, in conjunction with regular pest control service, will help reduce the population significantly, sometimes to zero.
BOXELDER BEETLE
Boxelder beetles are small black insects with distinct red or orange markings along their wings and body. They are commonly found on and around boxelder trees, maple trees, and ash trees, where they feed on seeds and plant material. Large numbers of boxelder beetles may gather on the sunny sides of buildings, especially during cooler months when they are seeking warmth. While they can become a nuisance when they cluster on walls, windows, and siding, they are not harmful to people or homes and typically do not reproduce indoors.
JUNE BEETLE
June beetles are large, brown beetles that are most commonly seen flying around lights at night during the warmer months, particularly in late spring and early summer. Their larvae, often called white grubs, live underground where they feed on the roots of grasses and plants. Adult June beetles are generally harmless to homes but can be a nuisance when they gather around porch lights, patios, and entryways. Because they are strong fliers and are attracted to light, they may occasionally make their way indoors through open doors or windows, but they do not infest homes.
PINACATE BEETLE
Pinacate beetles, sometimes called desert stink beetles, are glossy black beetles commonly found in desert environments. When disturbed, they raise their abdomen and release a strong defensive odor, which is where the name “stink beetle” comes from. These beetles are primarily scavengers, feeding on decaying plant material and organic debris. They are slow-moving and harmless to people and homes, though they may occasionally wander into garages, patios, or around landscaping while searching for shelter.
