June bugs, also known as May beetles or June beetles, are common insects known for their buzzing flights on warm evenings. These beetles belong to the Phyllophaga genus within the scarab beetle family. Their presence often signals the arrival of late spring and early summer in many regions. Their life cycle involves much time hidden beneath the soil.
Global and Regional Distribution
The genus Phyllophaga is extensive, encompassing over 900 species, and is largely distributed across the New World. While some related species exist globally, June bugs are primarily a North and South American phenomenon. More than 400 species are found in North America alone.
These beetles are common throughout the United States, with a high diversity of species found in the eastern half of the country. They are also numerous in regions like Arizona in the western U.S. and are well-represented in Central American countries. Their distribution extends from Canada down to Argentina.
Local Environments They Inhabit
June bugs occupy different local environments depending on their life stage. Female June bugs lay their eggs in the soil, initiating the life cycle of their larval form, known as white grubs. These grubs remain underground for an extended period, typically one to four years, where they feed on plant roots and decaying organic matter. This subterranean lifestyle means they are commonly found in lawns, gardens, agricultural fields, and nurseries.
Adult June bugs emerge from the soil in late spring or early summer. They are nocturnal and are frequently observed around outdoor lights at night. During the day, adult June bugs burrow back into the soil for shelter. Their preferred above-ground habitats include areas with abundant vegetation, such as gardens, lawns, and wooded areas, where they can find suitable food sources like leaves, shrubs, and trees.
Ecological Influences on Their Presence
Several ecological factors determine where June bugs are found, largely revolving around climate, soil conditions, and the availability of specific vegetation. June bugs require warm temperatures for their muscles to be active and to facilitate flight and mating. Cold weather causes them to become inactive and burrow deeper into the soil, waiting for more favorable conditions to return.
Soil type and moisture are also important for their life cycle. Females prefer to lay eggs in moist turf or soil rich in organic matter. The developing larvae thrive in such environments, as they feed on roots and decomposing plant material present in the soil.
The availability of food sources directly influences their distribution. Larval June bugs feed on the roots of a wide variety of plants, including grasses, vegetables, ornamental plants, and tree seedlings. Adult June bugs are herbivores, consuming the foliage of trees, shrubs, and other plants, including oak, maple, corn, and fruit like strawberries. The presence of these specific plant types makes an area suitable June bug habitat, supporting both larval and adult stages.