Elm Leaf Beetle
Contact: Eric Day, Manager, Insect Identification Laboratory
August 1996
Elm Leaf Beetle
Size
About 1/4 inch (6.4mm)
Color
Yellowish to olive green
Description
The adult beetle is about 1/4 inch long, yellowish to olive green
with a black stripe along each side of the back. The stripes are
sometimes indistinct in the dark green forms. There are 3-4
black spots on the region behind the head.
Habitat
Elm leaf beetles are a pest in and around homes in the fall and
spring. The adult beetles usually overwinter in houses, garages,
barns, etc. When the days warm up in the spring and the
trees begin to leaf out, the adult beetles move about and leave
the house. They are frequently overlooked or stay hidden during
the winter months, but are noticed in the spring.
Life Cycle
In the spring and summer, the larvae and adult beetles feed on
the leaves of elms. Successive generations continue throughout
the summer and into fall when the adults, seeking shelter for
overwintering, again invade houses. Elm Leaf Beetle eggs.
Type of Damage
No danger to household except overwintering indoors.
Control
There is no danger to household foods or materials from these
insects. They will not infest the house--simply spend the winter
there. Control of these insects should be directed toward the
larvae and adults on the trees. Preventing the beetles from
entering the house may be possible. Use a caulking compound to
fill in cracks around doors and windows and all other openings
large enough for insects to go through. A commercial aerosol can
be used indoors.
Interesting Facts
Sometimes confused with the carpet beetle.