unknown on Jul 9, 2025

Originally reported as Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

The kids called them "watermelon beetles". They had the shiny, emerald (depending on the light), ridged wing shields. They were more prevalent in the afternoon/early evening (The high temperature for the day we saw most of them was only about 75° F). We did not see as many the following day, but the temperature had increased significantly.

Commentary

Thank you for your report! Without a photo or specimen, it's hard to say for sure what you saw. However, your description of ridged wing shields doesn't suggest EAB (which has smooth wing covers), and fits some of the native jewel beetles better, like the Golden Buprestid (Buprestis aurulenta) a very common non-pest borer in Douglas fir and other conifers.

Tom Valente
July 10, 2025, 1:54 a.m.