The aphids always arrive first. After they munch rose buds for a week or so, my nervous search for soldier beetles begins. Where are they? Are they coming this year? 

A few arrive on the scene to devour a multitude. As the days progress, they increase and are particularly visible in flight as the sun goes down. I shot this little gem last year.

He's been waiting in a folder, on my computer, for 12 months! 

If he or his family appear amongst your roses to snack on aphids, you've got a new friend.

I'd be rich if I could market these little darlings.