**Introduction: The Mysterious Drone Beetle in Animal Crossing**

Have you ever been strolling through your island in *Animal Crossing* and noticed a strange bug buzzing around? It’s small, it’s fast, and it might even catch you off guard – that’s the drone beetle! This little critter has caused quite a buzz in the *Animal Crossing* community. It’s not the easiest insect to catch, but it’s certainly one of the more interesting creatures you can encounter. Let’s dive into what makes the drone beetle special and how you can catch it without losing your patience.
**What is the Drone Beetle?**
First of all, let’s talk about what a drone beetle is. In *Animal Crossing: New Horizons*, the drone beetle is a type of bug that you can find flying around on trees. This beetle doesn’t just sit there like other bugs. No, it’s active and fast, making it a challenge to catch. You’ll see it on tree trunks or sometimes even flying around above your head.
Unlike other insects that you can just grab with your net without much thought, the drone beetle requires a bit of strategy and precision. It’s one of those bugs that can make you feel both excited and frustrated, depending on how successful you are at catching it.
**The Challenge: Why Is It So Hard to Catch?**
So why is catching the drone beetle such a challenge? Well, for starters, it’s fast. It doesn’t sit still for long, and if you don’t approach it the right way, you might find yourself chasing it around in circles. The beetle is also found on specific trees, often on hardwood trees in the evening. The time and placement can be tricky for players who aren’t familiar with when and where to look for it.
For many, the hardest part is the “timing” of the catch. When you spot it on a tree, you need to be very careful with how you approach it. If you get too close too quickly, it will fly away, leaving you empty-handed. And if you miss it even by a tiny bit, the bug might fly off and leave you wondering where it went. This makes it feel like an intense mini-game every time you try.
**Where Can You Find the Drone Beetle?**
Here’s the good news: knowing where and when to look can make all the difference. The drone beetle typically appears on hardwood trees, usually during the evening. It’s active between 5 PM and 11 PM in *New Horizons*. Keep this in mind as you plan your bug-hunting adventures.

If you’re playing in the Northern Hemisphere, you’ll find the drone beetle in the summer months. For players in the Southern Hemisphere, it will appear during the winter months. So, if you miss it in one season, don’t worry – just keep an eye on your trees when the right time comes around again!
**How to Catch the Drone Beetle**
Now, let’s talk about the strategy to catch this elusive bug. First, make sure you have your net ready. You’ll want to sneak up on the beetle slowly. This means no sudden movements – move too quickly, and it will fly away. The trick is to stand far enough from the beetle to avoid scaring it off, but close enough so that when it’s time, you can swing your net and catch it.
Another important tip is to make sure you’re only catching the beetle at the right time. If you approach too early or too late, the beetle may already be gone. Patience is key, so don’t rush!
**What Do Players Think About the Drone Beetle?**
As with any challenge in *Animal Crossing*, players have had a lot to say about the drone beetle. Some find the task of catching it exhilarating, while others have shared their frustration on social media about how tricky it can be. On forums like Reddit, players have discussed various techniques, including using the “stealthy approach” and waiting for the beetle to land in a perfect spot for a quick catch.
One user shared, “I finally caught it after what felt like an eternity of missing it. My heart was racing when I finally got it in my net!” Others have shared similar experiences, saying it took several attempts before they were successful. The general consensus is that while the drone beetle can be hard to catch, it’s totally worth it when you finally succeed.
**Community Feedback and Tips**
If you’re struggling with catching the drone beetle, you’re definitely not alone. Many players have shared tips and tricks that might help you out. One suggestion that pops up often is to make sure you have a clear view of the tree before you approach it. This way, you can spot the beetle early and make your move when the time is right.

Another tip comes from players who suggest using the “sneak” technique, where you walk slowly towards the tree. This minimizes the chance of scaring the beetle off, giving you more time to catch it.
**Conclusion: A Catch Worth the Effort**
In conclusion, the drone beetle may be one of those bugs that takes a bit more patience and skill to catch, but it’s all part of the fun of *Animal Crossing*. If you keep these tips in mind and approach it with the right mindset, you’ll be able to catch this elusive beetle and add it to your collection.
Have you tried catching the drone beetle in *Animal Crossing*? What’s your strategy for success? Have you faced any challenges or surprises along the way? Feel free to share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Happy bug hunting!