The Silpha americana is a large, robust carrion beetle with an orange-yellow head and a dark, ridged pronotum and elytra. It and its relatives are common at carcasses and under decaying organic matter where they feed on flesh, fly larvae, and decomposing plant material. They play a vital ecological role in nutrient recycling.
Best time to see a American Carrion Beetle (Silpha)
The best time to see a American Carrion Beetle (Silpha) is May–July, when about 72% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 17,008 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a American Carrion Beetle (Silpha)? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American Carrion Beetle (Silpha) sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an American Carrion Beetle (Silpha)?
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