Goldenrod Soldier Beetle Chauliognathus pensylvanicus

You'll spot these warm-colored beetles patrolling goldenrod blooms in late summer and early fall, which is why they're named after the plant. The 'soldier' nickname comes from their somewhat military-looking appearance, with bold coloring and stiff posture. Despite their formal look, these are predatory beetles—both as adults and larvae they hunt smaller insects. The alternative common name 'leatherwing' describes their distinctly soft and flexible wing covers, which is unusual for beetles. They're a harbinger of autumn and a sign that the garden is alive with hunting.