Oedemera query

[Dillybythesea]

I accidentally uncovered this in the greenhouse. I've put her back as safe and snug as I could. Last year I found a blister beetle walking around in the house (late March) which turned out to be Oedemera femoralis, and am wondering if this is another? Thanks for any help - Rhona

[Jason Green]

Yes, great find Rhona. They are of Notable-B status, I believe.

[Dillybythesea]

Thanks Jason! I must find out more about them then, and make sure I have tucked her up suitably!

[Klaas Reißmann]

They develope in rotten wood. The ready developed beetle normally overwinters in the wood and comes out in spring.

Regards
Klaas

[Dillybythesea]

Ah! Thanks Klass! So she's just a very early newcomer then!

I had some ladybird attractant paste, so put a little patch nearby, but would there be a better food I could supply, just while it's so cold? ATB, Rhona

[Klaas Reißmann]

No need to feed the beetle. It is overwintering and living of its reserves. Just make sure the place it is overwintering in is dry and cold (no heating near it and temperatures as low as 5 °C or less, even frost is ok. It is important that the place is dry. In spring, when it is going to be active, you should be there to let it out into nature or what ever they do in your greenhouse. Maybe you took them in by taking some wood and they develope in this would, they mate and build their greenhouse population.

regards
Klaas

[Dillybythesea]

OK, many thanks Klaas. Understood and I will make sure she can get out and about as and when active. The back of my greenhouse is wooden, and very old, and most of the shelving inside is pretty shabby too, so she has plenty of rotting wood around. And I won't be tempted to mend it or upgrade! Thanks again - Rhona

[Klaas Reißmann]

Hi Rhona,

that sounds really good. That's the best way for a beetle species I have only seen ones in my life yet. You're a lucky lady.

Regards
Klaas