
Community identification
May beetle (or June bug)
Phyllophaga spp.
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae
- Size
- 12 to 25 mm (0.5 to 1.0 inch)
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.