What do they look like? Soldier beetles usually have blue/green wing covers, a black head and a yellow band just below the head. They also have a yellow abdomen whose tip protrudes from under the wing covers, Soldier Beetles grow to around 13mm.
What do they do? Feed on soft bodied insects, they usually hang around flowering trees and shrubs to catch the insects as they feed on the nectar. Soldier beetles gather in huge swarms, which may break or weigh down thin branches. May also interrupt pollination of fruit trees by preying on the pollinators.
Can we live with them? Yes
Control Not usually necessary, but Maxguard, Eco-Neem or Natrasoap should deter or kill them.
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