Whirligig beetles
Gyrinidae · Aquatic life
Whole animal · Photo: Diogo Luiz / CC BY
Also called Whirligigs, Gyrinids
How to identify Whirligig beetles
- Shiny black, oval beetles about 1/8 to 1/2 inch
- Swim in fast circles and zigzags on the surface, often in groups
- Each eye is split in two: one half looks above the water and one below
- Short, paddle shaped middle and hind legs
- Larvae are long and pale with feathery gills along each side
Similar species
Water striders also stay on the surface but have long thin legs and skate rather than swim. Small water scavenger and diving beetles dive below instead of spinning on top.
Profile
| Season | Groups are most noticeable from late spring through fall; adults overwinter in the water or along shore. |
|---|---|
| Starts | Appear on the surface as water warms in spring |
| Depth | On the water surface |
| How it spreads or reproduces | Winged adults fly between waters |
| Habitat | Calm surfaces of ponds, lake coves, slow streams and canals, often along shaded banks. |
Why it matters in a lake
Harmless scavengers and predators of insects that fall on the water. Some give off a fruity or apple smell when handled.
Where it is found
- Idaho: Common
- Oregon: Common
- Wyoming: Common
Classification
| Kingdom | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum | Arthropoda |
| Class | Insecta |
| Order | Coleoptera |
| Family | Gyrinidae |
| Scientific name | Gyrinidae |
Midge larvae (bloodworms)
Mosquito larvae
Dragonfly nymphs
Damselfly nymphs
Water boatmen
Backswimmers
Predaceous diving beetles
Water striders
Mayfly nymphs
Caddisfly larvaeNeed a hand?
Found it in your lake?
Send us a photo and we will identify it and tell you what it means for your lake.
Idaho / Wyoming (208) 501-4531Oregon (541) 280-0596