Common Cockchafer (May Bug)

Found in gardens, meadows, and woodland edges across Europe and parts of Asia.

Adults feed on the leaves of deciduous trees and shrubs; larvae (grubs) live underground and eat the roots of various plants and grasses.

They have a 3-4 year life cycle, most of which is spent underground as larvae. Adults emerge in spring (April/May) and are known for their loud buzzing flight, often being attracted to artificial lights at night.

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. They can be agricultural and gardening pests because the larvae can damage lawns and crops by eating roots. They serve as a vital food source for birds, bats, and small mammals.