Finding Goldbug! | Children's book writer and illustrator Richard Scarry's, "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," features a very tiny gold bug hiding on every page. It's possible to read the book many times, never knowing "goldbug" is there. Once glimpsed, however, children can't resist looking for this little critter packed with personality. Scarry likely based his character on the insect picture here. This is a golden tortoise beetle. About the size of a ladybug, it's unquestionably metallic gold in color! They are not uncommon in Vermont, but you may have never seen one, for they posses an ability to change color, rare among insects, becoming red, brown, yellow. or even green depending upon the season and their threat level. So keep your eyes open in the garden and, you too, may find "goldbug" is no flight of children's book fancy, but a real creature, perhaps munching on a morning glory near you! (Herald / Bob Eddy)