June beetle (May beetle)

Woodlands, grasslands, gardens, and agricultural areas, especially near sandy or well-drained soil. Adults are commonly attracted to lights at night.

Adults typically eat foliage, flowers, or occasionally fruit; some feed little. Larvae (“white grubs”) consume grass and plant roots underground.

Mostly nocturnal and strong fliers, with adults emerging seasonally in late spring or summer. Females lay eggs in soil; larvae develop there for one to several years before pupating.

Adults are harmless to people and do not sting, though larvae can damage lawns, crops, and ornamental plants by feeding on roots. They are important prey for birds, mammals, and other predators, and their larvae help cycle nutrients in soil.