7.  Soldier Beetles
Soldier beetles, belonging to the beetle family Cantharidae, are commonly seen in the garden. They resemble fireflies, but lack light-producing organs. The adult beetles are up to 5/8 inch long. Their wing covers are overlaid with downy hair and may be dull gray or black or brightly colored with yellow, orange, or red. They rest on vegetation during the day; at night some are attracted to lights. The beetles eat flower pollen and nectar as well as small insects. The larvae of soldier beetles feed on other insects, and are found beneath bark or debris on the ground.