This is definitely one situation where the phrase “to each his own…” applies. One person’s pest is a welcomed natural curiosity to another. Have you ever actually taking a hard look through your home and yard to see just how many creatures make up our local environment?
Our oldest daughter planted morning glories with the goal of attracting golden tortoise beetles to their yard. Planted morning glories specifically to attract golden tortoise beetles. It worked!And they responded by showing up! Her opinion? “They’re awesome.”
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| Photo Credit: Kat Flinn |
Also known as goldbugs, or golden lady bugs, golden tortoise beetles are a common garden pest that chew through the leaves of various plants, especially morning glory vines and sweet potato vines. Despite their destructive nature, golden tortoise beetles are actually rather handsome bugs.
Pests? I have yet to hear someone bemoan damage to their morning glory vines or sweet potato vines. Let the little bugs nosh! The golden tortoise beetle is distributed widely in eastern North America, west to about Iowa and Texas. It is one of three species of tortoise beetle found in Florida.
FUN FACT: When disturbed, it turns a dull reddish-orange with black spots. When its dies, it's the same reddish orange. The golden tortoise beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata bicolor) is generally not viewed as a serious pest. (which, I am sure, is what makes these beetles so 'awesome')
Does anyone (knowingly and intentionally) host golden tortoise beetles at their home?
Hopefully you don’t find them to be a menace that must be destroyed. Live and
let live.
INTERESTING READ: Scientific American online: Glad you ditched the anal fork, Golden Tortoise Beetle, By Becky Crew on July 4, 2012
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