Short-winged Blister Beetle

Meloe angusticollis is black or metallic blue. Extremely short and sparse setae matching integument color. Head is moderately to densely punctate. Pronotum is moderately to densely punctate; scutellum conically produced. Elytra are short, not reaching end of abdomen. Legs each have an outer metathoracic tibial spur with apical portion produced anteriorly. The moderate to dense punctation on the head and pronotun, and the presence of a conically produced scutellum readily distinguishes M. angusticollis from the other Meloe species. Blister beetles release a toxic secretion called cantharidin, which causes skin blisters and deters predators. Cantharidin is highly toxic to humans, with just 100 milligrams being potentially fatal if ingested. Historically used in medicine as the aphrodisiac Spanish fly, its use has declined due to its dangers. Nuthatches (birds in the genus Sitta) have been observed using blister beetles by rubbing them around tree cavity entrances to repel animals, likely due to the beetles' toxic secretion.

This species is active primarily during spring and early summer across the northern half of the United States and southern Canada.

Blister beetles undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. The first larval stage, known for its mobility and well-developed legs, is much different from later stages — a process called hypermetamorphosis. Meloe angusticollis larvae hitchhike on bees to reach food sources like bee nests. As the larvae progress they become engorged with reduced mobility, focusing on feeding and growth. After overwintering as late-stage larvae they enter the pupal stage, transitioning into adults. Typically there is one generation per year.