Green June beetle

Definition

A large, metallic green scarab beetle (Cotinis nitida) of the family Scarabaeidae, native to the eastern and central United States. Adults are active during mid-summer, often flying in low, erratic patterns in search of ripening fruit, sap flows, and other fermenting food sources. The larvae are cream-colored grubs that feed on decaying organic matter and grass roots, sometimes causing minor turf damage. Adults are distinguished from similar scarabs by their velvety green dorsal surface, rusty yellow margins on the elytra, and relatively large size (15–22 mm).

Etymology

Named for its bright green coloration and peak adult activity during June; specific epithet nitida from Latin 'shining' or 'bright'.

Example

Green June beetles frequently aggregate on damaged or overripe peaches, pears, and figs, where their feeding creates ragged, deep cavities in the fruit flesh; the beetles' loud, buzzing flight and tendency to crash into obstacles make them conspicuous in orchards and suburban gardens throughout their range.

Synonyms

• Cotinis nitida
• June bug (regional, imprecise)

Related Terms

• scarab beetle
• Scarabaeidae
• white grub
• fruit-feeding scarab
• fermenting bait trap

Usage Notes

The common name is often written as two words ('June beetle') or hyphenated ('June-beetle'), but modern entomological usage favors 'Green June beetle' as a compound common name for this species. The term 'June bug' is widely used for this and other summer-active scarabs, particularly Phyllophaga species, leading to frequent confusion; 'Green June beetle' is the more precise identifier for Cotinis nitida. The species is sometimes called the 'figeater beetle' in the southern United States, though this name more properly belongs to the western congener Cotinis mutabilis.