Bug Identifier
May beetle (or June bug)
Community identification

May beetle (or June bug)

Phyllophaga spp.

Order & Family
Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae
Size
12 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1.0 inch)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in temperate regions near grassy fields, forests, lawns, gardens, and around outdoor lighting.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on the foliage of deciduous trees and shrubs; larvae (white grubs) live underground feeding on roots of grasses, grains, and nursery plants.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal insects that are strongly attracted to artificial lights at night, often bumping into windows or light fixtures. They emerge from the soil in spring and early summer.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. However, the larvae can cause significant turf damage to lawns, and heavy populations of adults may defoliate young trees or garden shrubs.