Lovebug season is here, Florida! It peaks in May with another round in September.
They’re called lovebugs because they’re attached to each other so the male can prevent other males from mating with her. The female is in charge though and the larger of the two. Because she is bigger and stronger, she actually dictates where they fly, dragging the smaller male along for the ride.
The adult lifespan is only about 3 to 4 days and after they detach, the male dies almost immediately. They are attracted to highways and are drawn to the heat of the asphalt and the vibrations of cars, but mostly they are attracted to a vehicle’s exhaust. If they get smashed on your windshield or bumper and are left to bake in the Florida sun, their acidic remains will literally etch into your car’s clear coat and paint.
Lastly, no, they were not created in a lab. Urban legend. They came from Central America!
Thanks for reminding us.