Beetle on Chestnut Tree

[KSQ2]

I saw a bunch of these beetles on one of our young chestnuts. This is the first of our trees to bloom; there were no beetles on the other chestnut trees, which aren't blooming. Is it a pollinator, or a something destructive?

Another look:

 

[DocHolladay]

I have those same ones on my chestnut at the house. They are pollinators. I have seen them on the tree when it blooms for as long as I can remember. They look like a messed up lightening bug to me.


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[KSQ2]

I have those same ones on my chestnut at the house. They are pollinators. I have seen them on the tree when it blooms for as long as I can remember. They look like a messed up lightening bug to be.


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Thanks Doc!

 

[THE LLC]

They look like a messed up lightening bug to be.


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Exactly what I was thinking.

 

[Native Hunter]

That is a Soldier Beetle, and they are a major chestnut pollinator. They are crazy about goldenrods too. Very beneficial insect.

Here is a pic for you: https://www.insectidentification.org/insect-description.asp?identification=Soldier-Beetle

 

[KSQ2]

Sounds like a great one to have around! I’m glad I refrained from putting seven on the trees a while back when ants were on them.