Bug Identifier
June Bug, May Beetle, or June Beetle
Community identification

June Bug, May Beetle, or June Beetle

Phyllophaga spp. (a genus within the family Scarabaeidae)

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera, Family: Scarabaeidae
Size
1/2 to 1 inch (12 to 25 mm) in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

June bugs are commonly found in grassy areas, lawns, gardens, agricultural fields, wooded areas, and suburban environments. The larvae live underground in the soil.

Diet & Feeding

Adult June bugs feed on the leaves of various trees and shrubs, including oak, maple, birch, and fruit trees. Larvae (grubs) feed on the roots of grasses, ornamental plants, and vegetable crops.

Behavior Patterns

Adult June bugs are attracted to lights at night and are active flyers, often bumping into windows or screens. They are nocturnal. Larvae (grubs) live in the soil and feed on plant roots. Adult lifespan is relatively short, often just a few weeks. The life cycle can take 1-3 years depending on the species and environmental conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Larvae (grubs) can be significant pests of lawns and crops, causing damage by feeding on roots which can lead to brown patches in lawns or stunted plant growth. Adult beetles can cause minor defoliation of trees and shrubs, though significant damage is less common. They do not bite or sting humans. Benefits: As part of the ecosystem, they serve as a food source for various birds and mammals.