Though there are several members of this family that can cause damage, the Striped and Gray Blister Beetles are the most common. The beetles tend to move in swarms and can cause a great deal of defoliation but may not stay in one area for very long. Blister beetles pass the winter in a pseudopupa stage and then go through a final molt in the spring. After a short period of activity, the larva enters the true pupal stage with the adults emerging midsummer.
Blister beetles have long, slender bodies with a relatively large head.
These insects release a caustic substance when crushed that can raise blisters on the skin. Often beetles will move on in a day or two. If beetles are handpicked, be sure to wear gloves. A number of stomach insecticides are also effective for control. Insect Pests, A Golden Guide, Golden Press, pg 74.