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Lily beetle. Animated coloured scanning electron micrograph of a lily beetle (Lilioceris lilii). Lily beetles are an increasing pest in gardens that contain lilies, fritillarias, Nomocharis and Polygonatum (Solomon's Seal). They emerge in early Spring, and feed on the leaves of the host plant before mating and laying eggs. Each female lays 200-300 eggs. The larvae, which resemble small bird droppings, feed on the leaves of the host plant for about a month, causing partial or complete defoliation, disfiguring the plant and reducing flower quality and even flower production. The larvae pupate in the soil, and the adults overwinter at ground level in plant debris