Colbalt Milkweed Beetle

Small, oval shaped eggs are laid on milkweed plants. Once hatched, the larvae will feed on the

milkweed leaves and roots, continuously getting larger as it progresses through multiple growth

stages. 

This beetle creates a cocoon during the final larval stage, and can overwinter, or slow down

development, for multiple months if conditions are too cold. 

Milkweed plants contain highly poisonous compounds known as cardiac glycosides. Cobalt

Milkweed beetles have adapted to the toxins, and as they consume various parts of the plant,

store the toxins as a defense mechanism for predators.