They're lily beetles, and the best way of dealing with them is to put a trowel or scoop under the leaf where one is sitting - and then knock it off onto it, and 'squish' it. I say be ready to catch it, because they have a habit of dropping off as you approach, and falling upside down onto the ground. Then you can't find them!

The other thing to watch out for is the grub - this looks like some bird poo under the lily leaves. Get some kitchen paper and wipe it off, screw the paper up and bingo!

You need to look every day - I look twice, as even today in the rain, I found one!

Thanx Spritzhenry. The lilies are a couple of years old, and I've had a good show of them previously.Then year before last, one pot had a very poor display and I couldn't work out why. Then last year, first the leaves were being eaten and then the buds of all the lilies. Then I noticed these red beetles, and at first didn't think it was those. Actually thought they were of the ladybird family until I noticed the poo stuff you mentioned, and then realised it was those that were attacking the lilies. And now they're back with a vengeance. Have been doing what you suggested, and yes, I agree that when they drop it's hard to see them. I am convinced today though, they must be coming out when I'm asleep, cos when I checked them this morning, there wasn't a bug in sight but lilies had been attacked even more. :o)

You have to squash them pretty hard too (listen out for a crack) as they can play dead!!!

Thanx Grandmage. Noticed that when the little blighter took off again. Obviously didn't zap him hard enough. Lost him then. lol.