June bugs, belonging to the scarab beetle family, are fascinating insects found worldwide. Known for their nocturnal habits, shiny bodies, and strong flights, these beetles appear mostly during late spring and summer. From the vibrant Green June Beetle to the striking Japanese Beetle, each species has unique traits, behaviors, and ecological roles that contribute to soil health, pollination, and natural decomposition.
1. Green June Beetle
The Green June Beetle (Cotinis nitida) is a large, metallic-green scarab beetle commonly seen buzzing around during summer months. Known for its shimmering color and loud flight, it plays an essential role in recycling organic material. These beetles are often found in gardens, fields, and compost piles across the southeastern United States.
Identification
- Color: Metallic green with bronze or gold highlights
- Size: Around 1 inch (25 mm) long
- Shape: Broad and oval body
- Wings: Hard outer wings (elytra) with a glossy sheen
- Larvae: White grubs that curl into a “C” shape
Habitat
Green June Beetles prefer warm, humid environments. They are commonly found in areas with rich organic soil, such as lawns, pastures, and gardens. Their larvae develop underground, where they feed on decaying plant matter and organic debris.
Behavior
These beetles are strong fliers and often make a buzzing noise similar to a bumblebee. Adults are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. They frequently gather around overripe fruit and compost piles, attracted by fermentation odors.
Diet
Adult Green June Beetles feed on ripe fruits, nectar, and sap from trees. Larvae feed primarily on decaying organic material, aiding in decomposition and soil aeration. This dual diet helps maintain ecological balance in their habitats.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle of a Green June Beetle spans one year. Females lay eggs in moist soil, and grubs hatch within weeks. These larvae overwinter underground before pupating in spring. Adults emerge in early summer, mate, and repeat the cycle, ensuring population renewal each year.
2. Ten-Lined June Beetle
The Ten-Lined June Beetle (Polyphylla decemlineata) is one of the most striking scarab beetles in North America. Recognized for its bold, white-striped elytra and loud hissing sound when disturbed, it’s a nocturnal species often attracted to lights during warm summer nights.
Identification
- Color: Brown with ten distinctive white stripes on its back
- Size: About 1.2–1.4 inches (30–35 mm) long
- Antennae: Large, fan-like antennae used to detect pheromones
- Body: Elongated and robust
- Larvae: Cream-colored grubs that live underground for several years
Habitat
Ten-Lined June Beetles inhabit sandy soils, open woodlands, and grassy areas across western North America. They prefer dry regions and are often found near pine forests or in suburban yards with well-drained soil.
Behavior
These beetles are nocturnal and clumsy fliers, often seen near porch lights. When threatened, they emit a hissing sound by forcing air through small openings in their abdomen. Males use their antennae to locate females during the breeding season.
Diet
Adult Ten-Lined June Beetles feed on tree and shrub leaves, though they cause minimal damage. The larvae feed on plant roots, which can sometimes harm turfgrass and ornamental plants if present in large numbers.
Lifecycle
Their life cycle lasts two to three years. Eggs are laid in sandy soil, where grubs feed underground for multiple seasons before pupating. Adults emerge in midsummer, live for only a few weeks, and focus on reproduction before dying.
3. European Chafer
The European Chafer (Rhizotrogus majalis) is a small but destructive species of June beetle, notorious for damaging lawns and turfgrass. Originally from Europe, it has become a major pest in North America, where its larvae feed heavily on grass roots, causing widespread turf dieback.
Identification
- Color: Light brown to tan with a slightly darker head
- Size: About 0.5 inch (13 mm) long
- Shape: Oval, compact body with fine hair on the thorax
- Wings: Smooth, slightly shiny elytra
- Larvae: White, C-shaped grubs with brown heads and dark tail spots
Habitat
European Chafers thrive in suburban lawns, golf courses, and pastures. They prefer sandy or loamy soils where grass grows thick. The larvae remain underground year-round, while adults emerge in early summer for brief mating flights at dusk.
Behavior
Adults are active during warm evenings, often flying in large swarms around trees and lights. They do not feed, focusing solely on reproduction. The larvae, however, are voracious root feeders, capable of destroying large patches of grass if populations are dense.
Diet
Adult European Chafers do not feed. Their larvae feed on the roots of grasses and other plants, leading to yellowing lawns and dead patches. Damaged areas can often be peeled back easily due to the severed roots.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle spans one year. Eggs are laid in soil during early summer, and larvae hatch within two weeks. They feed on roots throughout fall, overwinter underground, and pupate in late spring. Adults emerge in early summer, completing the cycle.
4. Figeater Beetle
The Figeater Beetle (Cotinis mutabilis), also known as the Green Fruit Beetle, is a large, metallic-green scarab native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Often confused with the Green June Beetle, it is slightly larger and known for its attraction to ripe fruits and compost piles.
Identification
- Color: Iridescent green with bronze or gold reflections
- Size: Around 1.25 inches (32 mm) long
- Body: Elongated, smooth, and shiny
- Wings: Hard elytra with a golden underside
- Larvae: Large white grubs with brown heads, often found in compost or decaying material
Habitat
Figeater Beetles are most common in warm, arid regions such as California, Arizona, and New Mexico. They thrive in areas with abundant fruit trees, compost piles, and organic debris, where their larvae can feed and develop safely.
Behavior
These beetles are active during the day, especially in sunny conditions. They are strong fliers, often buzzing noisily between fruiting trees and gardens. Figeater Beetles are social and frequently gather in large groups when food sources are plentiful.
Diet
Adults feed primarily on ripe or fermenting fruits like figs, peaches, plums, and grapes. They may also consume nectar and sap. Larvae feed on decaying plant matter and organic waste, helping decompose and recycle nutrients in the soil.
Lifecycle
The life cycle lasts about one year. Females lay eggs in rich organic soil or compost piles. Larvae feed throughout fall and winter, pupate in spring, and adults emerge in summer. Their short adult stage focuses on feeding and reproduction.
5. Common June Beetle
The Common June Beetle (Phyllophaga crinita) is a widespread species found throughout North America. Known for its reddish-brown color and nocturnal activity, this beetle often appears in large numbers during late spring and summer nights, especially around lights. Its larvae, known as white grubs, are significant turf pests.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown to chestnut
- Size: About 1 inch (25 mm) long
- Body: Oval and robust
- Antennae: Short, clubbed antennae typical of scarabs
- Larvae: White, C-shaped grubs with brown heads and three pairs of legs
Habitat
Common June Beetles inhabit grassy areas, agricultural lands, and gardens. They prefer moist, sandy, or loamy soils where larvae can easily burrow. These beetles are most active at night and spend their daylight hours hiding underground or beneath leaf litter.
Behavior
Adults are strong fliers, frequently drawn to porch and street lights. They emerge in late spring to early summer for mating and egg-laying. The larvae remain in the soil for several months, feeding on roots and overwintering before pupating the following year.
Diet
Adult Common June Beetles feed on foliage from trees and shrubs but cause minimal damage. The larvae feed on the roots of grasses and crops, sometimes creating brown patches in lawns or stunted plants in fields.
Lifecycle
Their lifecycle generally spans one year. Eggs are laid in soil during early summer, and larvae hatch within weeks. They feed on roots through fall, overwinter as grubs, pupate in spring, and adults emerge by early summer to continue the cycle.
6. Southern June Beetle
The Southern June Beetle (Phyllophaga ephilida) is a common scarab beetle found in the southern regions of the United States. Known for its nocturnal habits and tendency to gather near lights, this species plays a mixed role in ecosystems—beneficial in decomposition yet sometimes harmful to turfgrass and crops.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Size: Around 0.75–1 inch (19–25 mm) long
- Shape: Oval and slightly glossy body
- Antennae: Short with three clubbed segments
- Larvae: White, C-shaped grubs with reddish-brown heads
Habitat
Southern June Beetles thrive in warm, humid environments. They are most often found in lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields. Their larvae prefer soils rich in organic matter, where they can feed on decaying roots and organic debris underground.
Behavior
These beetles are active at night and often fly clumsily around light sources. During the day, they burrow into soil or leaf litter to stay cool and avoid predators. Their activity peaks in late spring and early summer, coinciding with warm, moist conditions.
Diet
Adult Southern June Beetles feed primarily on the leaves of trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants. The larvae, or white grubs, feed on plant roots and decaying matter, sometimes causing damage to lawns or garden beds when populations are large.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle takes about one year. Females lay eggs in the soil during early summer, and larvae hatch within weeks. Grubs feed through the summer and fall, overwinter underground, and pupate in late spring. Adults emerge by early summer to repeat the process.
7. Brown June Beetle
The Brown June Beetle (Phyllophaga fusca) is a medium-sized scarab beetle commonly seen across North America. It’s best known for its rich brown color and nocturnal activity during summer nights. Though not as damaging as other species, its larvae can still cause root damage in turf and crops.
Identification
- Color: Uniform dark brown
- Size: Around 0.75–1 inch (19–25 mm)
- Body: Oval with a smooth, glossy surface
- Antennae: Short, three-segmented club
- Larvae: Typical white C-shaped grubs found in soil
Habitat
Brown June Beetles thrive in grassy fields, gardens, and farmland. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and are often found in regions with moderate temperatures. The larvae stay underground throughout most of their development, feeding on roots and decomposing matter.
Behavior
These beetles are most active at night and often drawn to artificial lights. During the day, they remain buried in the soil or hidden under debris. Adults are strong fliers and emerge in early to mid-summer for mating.
Diet
Adults feed on leaves of shrubs and trees, while larvae feed on the roots of grasses and plants. In large populations, their root-feeding activity can lead to wilted or dead patches of grass.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle takes about one year. Eggs are laid in summer, larvae feed through fall and winter, pupate in spring, and adults emerge in early summer. This seasonal rhythm helps maintain their steady population in various habitats.
8. Northern June Beetle
The Northern June Beetle (Phyllophaga implicita) is a widespread species found across northern and central parts of North America. Known for its shiny reddish-brown body and nocturnal habits, it plays both ecological and agricultural roles due to its larvae’s feeding behavior.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown to mahogany
- Size: About 1 inch (25 mm) long
- Body: Elongated and glossy
- Antennae: Clubbed, with short lamellae
- Larvae: Cream-colored, C-shaped grubs that live underground
Habitat
This beetle prefers cooler climates and is often found in northern U.S. states and southern Canada. It inhabits grasslands, meadows, and gardens with loose, organic soil where its larvae can thrive.
Behavior
Northern June Beetles are nocturnal and attracted to lights. They are clumsy fliers and often appear during midsummer evenings. Adults spend much of their short lifespan mating and laying eggs in the soil.
Diet
Adults feed on tree leaves, shrubs, and sometimes crop foliage, while larvae feed on grass and plant roots. This root feeding can lead to noticeable turf damage in heavily infested areas.
Lifecycle
Their lifecycle typically spans one year. Females lay eggs in early summer, larvae hatch within weeks, and grubs feed underground before overwintering. Pupation occurs in late spring, with adults emerging the following summer to begin the next generation.
9. Cottonwood Borer
The Cottonwood Borer (Plectrodera scalator) is a large and impressive beetle native to North America. Recognized by its striking black-and-white pattern, this species primarily targets poplar and cottonwood trees. Despite its beauty, it’s considered a pest due to the larval tunneling that can weaken or kill trees.
Identification
- Color: Black with white or cream markings
- Size: 1–1.5 inches (25–38 mm) long
- Body: Cylindrical with long, banded antennae
- Legs: Strong and spiny
- Larvae: Cream-colored grubs that bore deep into wood
Habitat
Cottonwood Borers inhabit forests, riverbanks, and areas with abundant poplars or cottonwoods. They prefer moist environments where host trees are common. Larvae develop inside tree trunks and roots, while adults are found on bark or foliage.
Behavior
These beetles are strong fliers but tend to stay close to host trees. Females lay eggs at the base of cottonwoods, and larvae bore into the wood, creating tunnels that can weaken the tree’s structure. Adults are active during warm summer months.
Diet
Adult Cottonwood Borers feed on leaves and bark of poplars and cottonwoods. Larvae feed on the inner wood and roots, sometimes killing young or stressed trees by disrupting nutrient flow.
Lifecycle
The life cycle lasts two to three years. Eggs hatch in midsummer, and larvae feed inside the tree for up to two years before pupating. Adults emerge in late spring or early summer to mate and continue the cycle.
10. Pine Chafer
The Pine Chafer (Polyphylla fullo) is a large, nocturnal scarab beetle commonly found in pine forests and sandy soils across Europe and parts of Asia. Known for its striking white-spotted appearance, it’s a strong flyer that plays a minor role in forest ecosystems.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown with irregular white spots and lines
- Size: Around 1–1.4 inches (25–35 mm) long
- Antennae: Fan-like and prominent in males
- Body: Sturdy with a slightly rough texture
- Larvae: Large, white grubs with reddish-brown heads
Habitat
Pine Chafers inhabit coniferous forests, dunes, and sandy plains. They prefer areas with loose, dry soil where larvae can develop safely. They are often found near pines, oaks, and mixed woodlands.
Behavior
Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights. Males use their large antennae to detect female pheromones. During the day, they hide under leaf litter or bark. Their flight season typically occurs in midsummer.
Diet
Adults feed on pine needles and leaves, causing minor damage to trees. The larvae feed on the roots of grasses and shrubs, sometimes affecting plant health when populations are high.
Lifecycle
The Pine Chafer’s life cycle spans three to four years. Larvae live underground, feeding on roots for several years before pupating. Adults emerge in summer, live for a few weeks, and focus mainly on reproduction.
11. Japanese Beetle
The Japanese Beetle (Popillia japonica) is a highly recognizable and invasive scarab beetle originally from Japan. Now widespread across North America, it’s infamous for its metallic green body and copper-colored wings, as well as for its voracious appetite that damages hundreds of plant species.
Identification
- Color: Metallic green head and thorax, coppery elytra
- Size: About 0.5 inch (13 mm) long
- Shape: Oval and compact
- Antennae: Short, fan-shaped
- Larvae: Cream-colored, C-shaped grubs living underground
Habitat
Japanese Beetles thrive in gardens, lawns, and agricultural areas. They prefer warm, sunny environments and moist soils for egg-laying. The larvae develop in the soil, feeding on grass roots, while adults feed on foliage above ground.
Behavior
Adults are active during the day and often seen feeding in large groups. They are strong fliers but typically stay near their host plants. These beetles emit pheromones that attract others, leading to mass feeding and severe defoliation events.
Diet
Adults feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of over 300 plant species, including roses, grapes, and linden trees. Larvae consume the roots of grasses and crops, often causing dead patches in lawns.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle lasts one year. Eggs are laid in midsummer, and larvae hatch in a few weeks. Grubs feed underground through fall, overwinter in soil, and pupate in spring. Adults emerge in early summer to reproduce and start the cycle again.
12. Goldsmith Beetle
The Goldsmith Beetle (Cotalpa lanigera) is a beautiful North American scarab beetle known for its golden, metallic sheen. Found mainly in eastern woodlands, this beetle is often admired for its stunning coloration and relatively harmless feeding habits compared to other June beetles.
Identification
- Color: Shiny gold or yellow-green
- Size: Around 0.8–1 inch (20–25 mm) long
- Body: Oval and smooth with a velvety underside
- Antennae: Short, clubbed
- Larvae: White grubs with brown heads, typical of scarabs
Habitat
Goldsmith Beetles are found in deciduous forests, parks, and gardens across eastern North America. They prefer areas with abundant trees such as oaks, willows, and poplars, where adults feed and lay eggs.
Behavior
These beetles are nocturnal and often attracted to lights. During the day, they rest on the undersides of leaves. They are solitary fliers and less abundant than other June beetles, making sightings rare but memorable.
Diet
Adults feed on the leaves of trees like willow, poplar, and oak. Their feeding causes little damage. Larvae live in the soil, consuming decaying plant matter and contributing to nutrient recycling.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle typically lasts one year. Eggs are laid in early summer, larvae hatch within weeks, and feed underground before overwintering. Pupation occurs in late spring, and adults emerge by early summer to continue the cycle.
13. Western Pine Chafer
The Western Pine Chafer (Polyphylla occidentalis) is a striking scarab beetle native to the western United States. Known for its sandy brown color and intricate white markings, this nocturnal beetle is often seen in pine forests and desert regions, where its larvae feed underground for years.
Identification
- Color: Light brown with white or cream stripes and patches
- Size: Around 1.2–1.5 inches (30–38 mm) long
- Body: Elongated and sturdy
- Antennae: Fan-like in males, smaller in females
- Larvae: White C-shaped grubs that burrow deeply in soil
Habitat
Western Pine Chafers are found in arid and semi-arid regions, especially pine forests and sandy soils. They prefer areas with sparse vegetation and loose soil that facilitates larval development underground.
Behavior
Adults are active at night during midsummer and often fly clumsily toward lights. Males rely on their large, feathered antennae to detect female pheromones. During the day, they rest under logs, bark, or soil.
Diet
Adults feed lightly on pine needles and the leaves of nearby shrubs, while larvae feed on roots of grasses, shrubs, and young trees. In large numbers, they can affect the health of vegetation by reducing root efficiency.
Lifecycle
Their lifecycle can span up to three years. Eggs are laid in sandy soil, and larvae feed underground through multiple seasons before pupating. Adults emerge in summer, live for a few weeks, and reproduce before dying.
14. Spangled Flower Beetle
The Spangled Flower Beetle (Euphoria sepulcralis) is a small, elegant scarab beetle commonly found across North America. Its metallic black or brown body decorated with pale spots gives it a “spangled” appearance, making it a distinctive visitor to flowers and gardens.
Identification
- Color: Dark bronze or black with cream or white speckles
- Size: Around 0.6 inch (15 mm) long
- Body: Oval and flattened with short, strong legs
- Antennae: Short and clubbed
- Larvae: White grubs living in decaying wood or soil rich in organic matter
Habitat
Spangled Flower Beetles inhabit gardens, meadows, and forest edges. They are frequently found visiting flowers for nectar and pollen. Larvae develop in decaying logs, compost, or under mulch.
Behavior
Adults are active during the day and often seen hovering over or crawling on flowers. They are harmless and beneficial pollinators. Despite their bright appearance, they are quick fliers and difficult to catch.
Diet
Adults feed on flower pollen, nectar, and occasionally fruit juices. Larvae feed on decomposing wood and organic debris, helping to break down plant material and recycle nutrients in the ecosystem.
Lifecycle
The lifecycle typically takes one year. Eggs are laid in decaying wood or soil, larvae feed through fall, overwinter, and pupate in spring. Adults emerge in early summer to feed and reproduce.
15. Rugose June Beetle
The Rugose June Beetle (Cyclocephala rugosa) is a medium-sized scarab beetle found throughout the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. Recognized for its textured body and golden-brown color, it’s one of the more resilient species within the June beetle family, thriving in warm climates and sandy soils.
Identification
- Color: Golden-brown to reddish-tan
- Size: Around 0.6–0.8 inch (15–20 mm) long
- Body: Smooth but slightly wrinkled (rugose) elytra
- Antennae: Short, lamellate clubs typical of scarabs
- Larvae: White, C-shaped grubs found in soil or decaying organic matter
Habitat
Rugose June Beetles prefer sandy or loamy soils and are often found in grasslands, gardens, and agricultural regions. They thrive in warm environments and are especially common in areas with decaying vegetation or organic waste.
Behavior
Adults are nocturnal and attracted to artificial lights during summer nights. They spend much of the day buried in soil or hiding beneath leaf litter. Although strong fliers, they tend to stay close to their breeding grounds.
Diet
Adults feed on nectar, plant sap, and soft fruit. Larvae consume decaying organic matter, roots, and composted materials. This feeding behavior helps in nutrient cycling but can occasionally damage turf or young plants.
Lifecycle
The life cycle lasts about one year. Females lay eggs in soil rich with organic matter. Larvae hatch within a few weeks and feed underground until winter. After overwintering, they pupate in spring, and adults emerge in early summer to reproduce and restart the cycle.