Ox beetles

Have you found ginormous grubs in your compost pile?  If so, don’t panic!

Grubs are a common name for beetle larvae and these particular rubs become Ox beetles.  The larvae look like a typical white grub and have a creamy C-shaped body, reddish head capsule and six legs.  The difference is that these grubs look like they've been taking steroids and can fill the palm of your hand.

Adult beetles are shiny brown and about 2 inches long. Males have horns while females do not.  It takes 1-2 years for a generation to mature. So, if you find these guys (and girls) in your compost pile, leave them in peace...they're helping you compost!