Monsoon moisture brings out creepy, crawly Palo Verde beetles

Monsoon moisture can bring Palo Verde beetles out of the ground across Arizona. The insects may look alarming, especially to people who have never seen them before.

The beetles can grow to nearly four inches long. Female beetles lay eggs around the roots of Palo Verde trees and other plants, where the larvae develop underground.

Mature beetles emerge for a short period to mate. They are generally harmless and do not sting, but they can pinch if provoked.

People may also see holes near trees when the beetles emerge. Common pest control methods can usually remove them.