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.
I think it is the Small Milkweed Beetle.If so,it is harmless to me.There are many milkweed plants throughout the garden, with the intention of attracting the Monarch butterfly.
http://www.cirrusimage.com/bugs_small_milkweed.htm More information.