
June Beetle / May Beetle / European Chafer
Phyllophaga spp. (for June/May beetles) or Rhizotrogus majalis (for European Chafer, which looks very similar)
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera, Family: Scarabaeidae (Scarabs)
- Size
- Typically 12-25 mm (0.5-1 inch) in length.
Natural Habitat
Adults are found in gardens, lawns, agricultural fields, woodlands, and urban areas, often near host plants for feeding. Larvae live in soil.
Diet & Feeding
Adults feed on foliage of trees and shrubs. Larvae (grubs) feed on roots of grasses and other plants, including turfgrass and agricultural crops.
Behavior Patterns
Active primarily at night (nocturnal), attracted to lights. They are good climbers and can be found on walls or ceilings indoors during flight season. The larvae are subterranean and feed on roots.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae (grubs) can cause significant damage to lawns, golf courses, and agricultural crops by feeding on roots, leading to brown patches and weakened plants. Adults can defoliate trees and shrubs. Benefits: Serve as a food source for various animals, including birds, moles, and other predators.