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Elm Leaf Beetle

Actual Size: ¼”

Characteristics: Yellow to olive green with black longitudinal stripes along the back

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes

Habitat: Often found hiding under bark or debris, elm leaf beetles also enter buildings to overwinter, seeking shelter behind curtains, between books, in wall voids, or under carpets.

Habits:

  • They overwinter in attics and crawl spaces of homes.
  • Pose a significant threat to elm trees, particularly Siberian and English varieties.
  • In spring, they emerge from their overwintering sites and move to the nearest elm tree.


Elm Leaf Beetles in Central Arkansas

Elm leaf beetles are notorious pests that cause extensive damage to elm trees, with a particular preference for Siberian and English elms. They are widespread across the United States and Canada. Adult elm leaf beetles chew holes in the leaves, while their larvae feed on the leaf surface, creating a lace-like appearance. During winter, they often seek refuge in and around buildings, becoming a significant nuisance as they invade attics, crawlspaces, and living areas.

Elm Leaf Beetle Habitat

Elm leaf beetles overwinter in protected locations, frequently inside houses or other structures. Within homes, they seek out safe spots like attics and crawl spaces, emerging in spring to move to elm trees where they lay eggs in clusters of 5 to 25 on the underside of leaves. The larvae feed on the leaves’ surface, causing the foliage to turn brown or whitish. When abundant, elm leaf beetles can completely defoliate large elm trees, reducing summer shade and diminishing the trees’ aesthetic value.

Elm Leaf Carpet Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Elm leaf beetles are primarily nuisance pests; they do not bite, sting, reproduce, or feed indoors during the winter. Although they do not harm people or damage wooden components in homes, their feeding on elm trees can severely impact the trees’ health and appearance. Continuous infestations can weaken trees and reduce their growth.

If beetles are observed in the autumn as they approach the house, it’s wise to contact a pest management professional for licensed treatment and beetle control.