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Meloe sp.
Male and female mating. One of several pairs found during mid-day in this location.
Closely-mowed lawn surrounded by mixed hardwoods, central Appalachian Mountains.
Do NOT attempt to handle these insects if found. They secrete a strongly irritating substance from joints in their exoskeleton. This is why they are known as "blister beetles." The name "oil beetle' comes from the oily appearance of these secretions.
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