June bugs are common beetles active during late spring and early summer evenings, a familiar sight around outdoor lights as temperatures rise. This article explores the types of sounds June bugs create, the biological processes behind them, and the reasons for their vocalizations.
The Distinctive Sounds of June Bugs
June bugs produce several recognizable sounds, primarily a characteristic buzzing or whirring during flight. This sound is often described as low-pitched and erratic, becoming particularly noticeable as the beetles fly around light sources at night. Their tendency to bump into windows and screens also creates distinct thudding noises. Beyond their flight noise, some species, such as the ten-lined June beetle, can emit a hissing sound when handled or disturbed. This hissing serves as a defense mechanism, and while June bugs are known for these buzzing and hissing sounds, any clicking noises heard in June are more likely produced by a different insect, the click beetle.
Mechanisms of Sound Production
The primary sound, their buzzing during flight, originates from the rapid vibration of their wings, creating an audible hum. The distinct hissing or buzzing sound they make when disturbed is produced through a process called stridulation. This involves rubbing two specialized body parts together, typically the textured surfaces of their wings against their abdomen or wing covers (elytra). These friction-induced vibrations are then amplified by the beetle’s body structure. Unlike many other animals, June bugs do not possess vocal cords, relying on these mechanical methods to generate sounds.
The Purpose Behind June Bug Noises
Much of the noise made by June bugs, particularly their buzzing during flight, is an incidental byproduct of their movement. When disturbed or threatened, the hissing or buzzing sound serves as a defense mechanism. This startling noise deters potential predators, allowing the beetle to escape. Male June bugs may also use their flight patterns to attract females during the summer mating season. June bugs are strongly attracted to light sources, and their frequent collisions with windows or outdoor fixtures contribute to the noticeable sounds they make.
Identifying June Bug Sounds
Identifying June bug sounds involves recognizing their characteristic low-pitched buzzing or whirring, especially around light sources. These noises are typically heard at night. The specific time of year, late spring and early summer, is another strong indicator. While other insects produce sounds at night, June bug buzzing differs from the rhythmic chirping of crickets or the loud, high-pitched droning of cicadas, which are mostly active during the day. Katydids also create buzzy or raspy sounds, but these are often heard from trees, distinct from the ground-level or window-bumping sounds of June bugs.