I’ve come across this curious creature on several occasions. Weevils are beetles that known for their elongated snouts. Approximately 97,000 species are known.
Black Vine Weevils are oval in shape, about ½ inch long and have a short, broad snout with elbowed antennae. These insects earned their name “vine” weevil because they were first documented on grapes in Germany.
These insects are parthenogenic (can reproduce without a male). As a result, their population can grow very quickly. Only females are produced.
The Black Vine Weevil is a serious pest in nurseries and established landscape plantings. It and its larvae stunt or kill plants by feeding on the roots – it has been recorded on more than 100 species of cultivated and wild plants.
They are active night feeders and when disturbed, adults drop quickly to the ground. During daylight hours adults hide in dark places on stems of plants with dense foliage or in leaf litter and mulch.
A native of Europe, this species was first reported in Connecticut in 1910.