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http://www.durgan.org/URL/?CCZJG 21 June 2012 Beetle
This beautiful beetle is seen periodically in the potato patch. Beneficial or not, I don’t know, but am endeavouring to find out.

There is a wonderful thunderstorm in progress. It is sorely needed. If it wasn't for my mulch the garden would be a disaster, since there were only about two decent rains since about April first, almost three months. It has been almost unbearable hot weather.

It's a Milkweed Bug, Durgan. I know this thanks to my North American friends on G+. Very similar to our Firebugs.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_milkweed_bug

You are right. I have many milkweed plants around he garden area, hoping to attract the Monarch Butterfly.