June Beetle

June beetles, belonging to the genus Phyllophaga within the family Scarabaeidae, encompass numerous species of nocturnal, robust-bodied scarabs. Adults are typically reddish-brown to black, range from 12-25 mm in length, and possess lamellate antennae. Females deposit white, oval eggs singly in the soil, usually in grassy areas. The larvae, commonly known as white grubs, are C-shaped, creamy white with a brown head capsule, and possess three pairs of thoracic legs. Development of the grubs can take one to three years, depending on the species and environmental conditions, with pupation occurring in an earthen cell in the soil. Optimal soil moisture and moderate temperatures are crucial for larval development.

Adult June beetles are primarily nocturnal, emerging at dusk to feed on the foliage of deciduous trees and shrubs, and are strongly attracted to lights. Males often emerge before females. Females tunnel into the soil to lay eggs. White grubs remain subterranean throughout their development, feeding on the roots of grasses and other plants. They typically move deeper into the soil in response to cold temperatures, overwintering below the frost line. Larval locomotion is often accomplished by crawling on their backs.