Update: Some sort of Larvae
Caught in a collecting net while sweeping long grass next to walking path. Slow moving and didn't attempt to escape the net.
inside misterious Buddleja
These beetles have been soaking in ethanol solution for months, which may account for any potential color changes, or for the somewhat swollen abdomens. iNaturalist's ai insists these are rove beetles and I disagree, but I'm uncertain of any other options. They are roughly as long as my pinky finger's nail.