June Bugs

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What better time to talk about the June Bug than during the month of June? The Cotinis Nitida (June Bug) is found in the Eastern United States and is most abundant in the South. They measure .6 -.9 inch with dull, metallic green wings, gold sides and bright, shiny green heads, legs and undersides. Their habitat is from Maine to Georgia and as far West as California. Their life cycle is 1 year. The larvae can do great damage to the root systems of lawns, vegetables and ornamental plants. The adults feed on berries, grapes, peaches, nectarines, apples, pears and figs. Control of the adults is the same as was developed for Japanese Beetles and usually takes 2-3 years to work. The adults natural enemy is the bird. The larvae have natural predators. While underground they are eaten by moles; when they surface they are eaten by a variety of animals; such as, raccoons, opossums, chipmunks, skunks and birds. Photo Credit: Pixabay