Support Us Button Widget

Tampa, city of love… bugs

Get ready for lovebug season in the spring and fall.

Two black bugs with red heads connected by the ends cling to a white flower.

Isn’t it romantic?

Photo via Judy Gallagher on Flickr

What are all these black bugs with red heads flying around and cluttering our cars? They’re lovebugs and we’re in the midst of one of their semi-annual flights.

April-May and August-September is lovebug mating season. During this time, lovebugs attach to each other facing opposite directions and remain attached for as long as 12 hours until the mating ritual is complete. The male detaches and dies while the female lays the eggs in moist, damp areas. It’s not dinner for two at Mise En Place, but if it works for them…

Lovebugs are lovers, not fighters, so they don’t bite and are totally harmless… but be sure to clean them off your car or they could damage your paint.

More from TBAYtoday
We broke down the cost of living in the Tampa Bay area, including rent, housing, and other expenses — and compared it to other locations.
Check out these 15 yoga studios around the Big Guava and the Burg that offer hot, aerial, yin, vinyasa, and more yoga studio offerings.
Collect colorful and locally-branded matchbooks at these Tampa, St. Pete, and beachfront spots.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
The dual AC Hotels + Moxy by Marriott hotel will boast a rooftop bar and restaurant, 310 rooms, and plenty of other amenities.
Pretend you’re Belly, Jeremiah, or Conrad and spend summery moments at these Tampa and St. Pete restaurants, parks, and other local gems.
Editor Bailey reports back on the wellness spot’s treatments and her experience in the chair.
The economic landscape of Tampa Bay, who’s hiring, and who’s most likely to expand investments into our community.
We asked where you’d put one in TBAY, and you sent in your ideas.
Whether you’re a casual bird lover or longtime fan, you can get some tips from our guide.