Also known as May beetles, June bugs are not actually bugs at all, but clumsy, bumbling beetles that belong to the Scarab family. Adult June bugs usually only cause mild foliage feeding damage on ornamental plants, trees and crops; june bug larva, however, can be a serious nuisance on lawns. Identifying the pests helps you choose the right course of action to prevent further damage.
The Phyllophaga genus contains more than 400 species of June bugs, which makes identification between species challenging. Like other scarab beetles, June bugs are oval-shaped, with six stout legs and fat antennae. They are generally between 1/2 and 1 inch long, and may be brown, black or maroon, without any discernible patterns. Their undersides are hairy. June bugs are most active in May and June, during rainy weather. The nocturnal beetles are attracted to lights at night, and when not feeding, will often bump into porch lights.
Green June beetles are notably different in appearance than other June bug species. Their bodies are green or brown, and the wings are striped with a green vertical line margined with yellowish orange. Their undersides are shiny and metallic, and may be gold or green. They may be up to 1 1/2 inches long, with a small horn on the head. Green June beetles are also known as fig eaters because of their love of ripe figs.
Look Out for Larvae
Larvae generally wreak more havoc in the garden than adult beetles. Most larvae are between 3/4 inch and 2 inches long, with squishy, white bodies shaped like a C. They also have brown heads and three pairs of legs. Depending on the species, June bug larvae can live underground for one to four years, feeding on plant roots. Known as "white grubs," June bug larvae makes a popular fishing bait in the spring, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Search and Destroy
Insecticides are generally not warranted for adult June bugs, according to the University of Florida Extension. Placing a bucket with a few inches of water and a couple of drops of liquid soap in it under infested trees can help trap the pests. Even for larvae-infested lawns, natural predators such as birds and mammals may take care of the problem naturally, with minimal turf damage. If larvae damage is severe year after year, apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid or halofenozide in early summer, first removing as much thatch as possible from the lawn to allow for full penetration. Apply premixed products according to the label instructions, and take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and applying on a day with little or no wind.