Calligrapha californica

Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas

The eggs of calligrapha californica are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves, where they can be inconspicuous to predators. Larvae, once emerged, remain on the host plants, feeding voraciously on the leaves; this is often where they are most commonly found. When searching for larvae, inspect the leaves of potential host plants closely. Pupae are likely to be found in the soil or in a sheltered location near the host plant. Adults can be found on or near the host plants as well, but they have the ability to fly and may be seen feeding on the foliage or basking in the sun on warm days. Searching for adults may require a broader search in the vicinity of known host plants during sunny periods.

The suitable time for finding calligrapha californica would typically be during the daytime, especially in the warmer months when beetles are most active. Early morning or late afternoon might be particularly fruitful as these are peak feeding times for many beetle species.

Ideal weather conditions for finding calligrapha californica would be warm and dry, but not excessively hot, as beetles are ectothermic and rely on external temperatures for their activity. Overcast days with mild temperatures can also be suitable, as intense direct sunlight may cause the beetles to seek shelter.