Wireworms are the larvae of beetles commonly called skipjacks, snapping beetles or click beetles. When placed on their backs, wire-worm beetles have the ability to right themselves by flipping into the air. An audible click accompanies these acrobatics. The 800 species of North American wireworms vary in significance to vegetable producers, ranging from unimportant to capable of causing considerable damage. Larvae and adults are the stages most frequently encountered by gardeners and vegetable producers.
Coloration varies depending upon the species and stage of development.
Body colors include white, yellowish, light tan to reddish brown to dark brown. The hind corners of a shield-like structure covering the area behind the head are pointed or spiny. Beetles may be rather drab in appearance or multicolored with distinct markings. No single description of seasonal life history is applicable to all species. Some complete a generation each year, while others may require more than five years.