Florida Lovebugs

The slow-moving lovebug, often attached to a mate, is familiar to most people in the southern United States as the bug guts splattered all over their cars in the summer and early fall. Originally an invasive species from Central America, the lovebug–which is harmless to humans–is now found throughout Florida.
Origins. Contrary to popular belief, this insect was not introduced to the state by the University of Florida. Over the course of the twentieth century, lovebugs migrated from Central America, traveling through Texas and Louisiana to get to Florida.
Attractants. Lovebugs are attracted to diesel and gasoline exhaust fumes. Hot engines and the vibrations of automobiles apparently contribute to the attraction of lovebugs to highways.
Active times. Lovebugs are usually active between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., in temperatures above 84°F.
Mating season. Each generation lasts about four weeks in May and September. Typically there are two main generations during this time, but the insects can be seen throughout the summer.
Problems. Large numbers of lovebugs can reduce visibility, etch automobile paint, and cause liquid-cooled engines to overheat.
Solutions. Within about twenty minutes after a lovebug-filled drive, wash your car with water for about five minutes and then scrub it to remove most of the lovebugs without harm to automobile paint. A hood air deflector or screen will reduce the number of spattered lovebugs on your car.
Pesticides. Chemical controls are ineffective, as the lovebug is widespread and continually drifts onto highways from adjacent areas.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) For more information about lovebugs and IPM, visit IPM Florida’s Lovebugs page.

Love Bug Infestation Patrick Air Force Base Florida Cocoa Beach Satellite Beach