Rose Chafer (likely), though the specific metallic blue color suggests it could be a related species or a variant of a Rose Chafer. Without more context or views, it's hard to be 100% certain.

Scientific Name: Cetonia aurata (for the common Rose Chafer, though the color pictured is a less common blue variant or could be a different related species like an Anomala species)

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Scarabaeidae (subfamily Cetoniinae or Rutelinae, depending on the exact species)

Size: Typically 14-20 mm (0.55-0.79 inches) in length for the common Rose Chafer. Other related species may vary slightly.

Rose Chafer (likely), though the specific metallic blue color suggests it could be a related species or a variant of a Rose Chafer. Without more context or views, it's hard to be 100% certain.

Natural Habitat

Rose Chafers typically inhabit gardens, orchards, hedgerows, woodlands, and other areas with abundant flowering plants and deciduous trees. They are commonly found in temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa.

Diet & Feeding

Adult Rose Chafers feed on a variety of plants, including the petals, leaves, and pollen of roses, fruit trees (like cherry, plum, apple), grapevines, and other deciduous trees and shrubs. The larvae primarily feed on decaying organic matter in the soil, but can also consume plant roots, especially those of grasses and other herbaceous plants.

Behavior Patterns

Adult Rose Chafers are active during the day, feeding on flowers and leaves. They are strong fliers and can often be seen buzzing around plants in sunny weather. Females lay eggs in the soil, and the larvae develop underground, feeding on decaying organic matter and plant roots. The larval stage can last for one to two years before pupation and emergence as adults.

Risks & Benefits

Potential Risks: Rose Chafers can be considered pests in gardens and agricultural settings, as their feeding on flowers and fruits can cause cosmetic damage and reduce yields, particularly for roses and fruit crops. Large infestations can be problematic. Potential Benefits: As part of the insect ecosystem, they contribute to the food chain for birds and other predators. Their larvae can help in the decomposition of organic matter in the soil.

Identified on: 6/30/2025