Join the hunt: Rare Scottish oil beetles need your eagle eyes
Caithness wildlife enthusiasts are invited to search for Scotland's elusive oil beetles and record any sightings to help conservationists.
The Buglife Scotland charity is calling for public help to find these fascinating creatures.
Since launching in 2023, Buglife’s Scottish Oil Beetle Hunt has gathered over 300 records, with more than 100 coming through the Species on the Edge partnership programme, leading to new Scottish oil beetle discoveries.
"New sites for oil beetles are found every year, and every record helps us better understand these amazing beetles," says Sally Morris, Buglife Species on the Edge conservation officer. "Have you spotted a shiny black beetle that might be an oil beetle? Send us a photo and help us learn more about these charismatic beetles in Scotland."
What Makes Oil Beetles Special?
There are five species of oil beetle in the UK, but only three are found in Scotland – these are the black oil beetle (Meloe proscarabaeus), violet oil beetle (Meloe violaceus) and short-necked oil beetle (Meloe brevicollis). Their populations have declined due to habitat loss and wild bee declines, making public sightings crucial for conservation efforts.
These distinctive, charismatic beetles:
• exude a yellowish oil from their leg joints when threatened
• appear to wear an "ill-fitting waistcoat" due to their short wing cases
• have a remarkable life cycle tied to solitary bees – their larvae hitch rides on bees to access underground nests
• can be spotted in wildflower grasslands, heathland, and coastal areas from March to June
The rarest of these threatened species is the short-necked oil beetle, which has only been found at a handful of locations within Scotland – the Isles of Coll, Islay and Tiree, as well as Uist and Barra.
How You Can Help?
Taking part is easy, there is a guide to identifying oil beetles on Buglife’s website (buglife.org.uk). Then just keep your eyes peeled, watch where you step and submit sightings through the iRecord app with photos.
Additionally, you can share findings on social media using #OilBeetleHunt. No experience is needed, and full training and support are provided.
For more information and to learn more about upcoming training dates, please visit: buglife.org.uk/scottish-oil-beetle-hunt/
Records from coastal locations are especially valuable, but anyone can join the hunt. If you spot an oil beetle, record your sighting to let Buglife know.