Red flying bugs with a distinctive black band on their back end?

Question

I live in Canada and for a couple of years now, we have been getting these Red flying bugs with a distinctive black band on their back end. This year they are worse than ever. They seem to like all plants, but especially my lilies. Does anyone know what they are and how to control them?

Answer 1

Here in my part of the US, we call them blister beetles.  They can be controlled by a number of chemical sprays that can be found at your local garden center or with beneficial nematodes if you want an environmentally friendly method.