CLOSED: Id for this pretty beetle

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lynnekp bournemouth, United Kingdom May 13, 2021

Seen in Dorset yesterday

Thumbnail by lynnekp
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Flapdoodle Minot, ND May 13, 2021

It's blister beetle (family Meloidae) in the genus Meloe. These often are called 'oil beetles' because of the oily fluid they exude from their joints as a defensive measure when disturbed. This fluid (haemolymph) contains a chemical, cantharidin, that can cause blisters on tender skin.

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lynnekp bournemouth, United Kingdom May 13, 2021

Thanks. The photo was taken by my friend and when I gave her your reply she said the information board at the nature reserve mentioned these beetles.

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