June Bug (specifically a member of the May beetle genus)

Natural Habitat

Found in gardens, lawns, and woodlands throughout North America. Adults are frequently found near porch lights at night.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on the foliage of trees and shrubs at night. Larvae (white grubs) live underground and feed on the roots of grasses and other plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are nocturnal and strongly attracted to artificial light. They are characterized by a clumsy flight pattern and often bump into windows or walls. They have a 1-to-3-year life cycle, spending most of it underground as larvae.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. However, the larvae can be significant garden pests by damaging lawn roots, while large swarms of adults can defoliate ornamental trees. They serve as an important food source for birds, skunks, and other wildlife.

Identified on: 4/24/2026