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Project Noah Nature School
Paropsis variolosa
Small (just over 1cm), orange/red mottled pattern beetle, gold mottled pattern, slightly pin-dented shiny shell, round/dome shaped, black eyes, gold edged feet, very active, possibly Variole Paropsine Beetle. Also known as Eucalyptus Tortoise Beetles. Feeds on Eucalyptus leaves.
A variety of species found throughout Australia in a variety of habitats. This one in dry woodland forest in north east NSW.
Very true MacC. I've only found two on two separate properties. I remember 'many' years ago they were a common find with many varieties on offer. It's a worry when you really take notice of the changes happening. I'd love to find more. Maybe due to the dry not many tree saplings are coming up which they seem to like (the new leaves) and are easier to find than in the high tree canopy.
Thank you JillBlack for comment. It was ready to leap into my face in the first picture.
Spotted on Feb 23, 2014
Submitted on Mar 2, 2014
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