Common May Beetle (also known as June Bug)

Natural Habitat

Found in lawns, gardens, and wooded areas. They often emerge from grassy soil in spring and are frequently found near porch lights.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on the foliage of broadleaf trees and shrubs at night. Larvae, known as white grubs, feed underground on the roots of grasses and ornamental plants.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal activity; they are strongly attracted to artificial light. They have a multi-year life cycle (1-3 years) spend mostly underground as larvae before emerging as adults in late spring/early summer.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. However, they can be a significant garden and agricultural pest; the larvae can damage lawn turfgrass roots, while adults may defoliate certain trees.

Identified on: 4/9/2026