Insect of the week (October 28, 2024) is the eyed elater – Alaus oculatus (Linnaeus, 1758). This click beetle (COLEOPTERA: Elateridae) is not frequently found in central Illinois. Some adults reach nearly 2 inches in length. It is thought the false eyes serve to deter or confuse predators. Curiously, this is known as self-mimicry as one body part mimics another body part. As with related species, this adult beetle is capable of rapidly launching itself to avoid predators. Curiously, larvae of this beetle differ from their vegetarian relatives in that they prey on larvae of other beetles (mostly Cerambycidae). The larvae are commonly called wireworms 9as is true for several families of beetles). Caged larvae have been documented devouring over 200 larvae of Cerambycidae. I have observed adults in forested areas. This species is widely distributed across the eastern United States. I have collected specimens as far west as Kansas.