Every once in a while, a new pest arrives in Minnesota. Most recently, black flies made their way into the state, biting campers, lake-goers, and anyone else who dared to go outdoors. Other common invaders include the emerald ash borer, which does damage to Minnesota trees, and the aquatic zebra mussel, which can cause huge problems with underwater infrastructure.

There’s yet another invasive species to be aware of, this one a little closer to home than most. It’s a lawn-eating beetle that was recently discovered in a Minnesota yard. If you’d like to keep your lawn in tip-top shape – and prevent the beetle’s spread into other parts of Minnesota – you’ll want to be aware of this one.

Read on below to learn more about the European chafer beetle and how it can damage your yard.

Many homeowners take pride in their lawns, and Minnesota homeowners are no different. After all, we only get a few months a year to enjoy these lush, green areas. It makes sense that we would like to keep them nice!
MIchael Hicks/Flickr
Unfortunately, the European chafer beetle has other ideas. This 1/2-inch-long insect resembles a June bug, with a brown body and long legs.
gbohne/Flickr

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The insect was discovered in the United States in the 1940s, though they are originally from Europe. Ever since, they have slowly spread westward. They are now prevalent in Michigan's Lower Peninsula and eastern Wisconsin.
heipei/Flickr
In 2020, they were discovered on a lawn in Minnesota for the first time. Given their size, they are easy to spot. But by the time you spot them, it may be too late. Adult chafers do not eat grass. However, their larvae do.
Mario Krpan/iStock via Getty Images
The larvae hatch in early August each year, quickly getting to work destroying lawns by eating turfgrass roots. They can be more damaging even than the destructive Japanese beetle. That makes European chafers worth watching out for.
David K/Flickr

Though adult beetles could be a sign that larvae are growing in your yard, it is not necessarily the case. Keep an eye on your grass, and be sure to report any sightings of the European chafer. Use the Minnesota DNR Arrest the Pest page to file a report. You’ll get expert guidance on your next steps. While it may not be possible to stop the European chafer completely, it is possible to spread awareness of these harmful insects!

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