A small, brightly colored beetle with a soft body and characteristic blister-inducing venom, the blister beetle (Epicauta spp.) is found throughout North America and Texas. Its common names, such as “blister bug” and “soldier beetle,” reflect its ability to inflict painful blisters on human skin when handled or ingested. Blister beetles are typically 0.5-1.5 cm long and display vibrant hues ranging from yellow to black, often adorned with contrasting stripes or spots. They inhabit various environments, including fields, grasslands, and gardens, feeding primarily on plants.
