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any large European beetle that flies at dusk, the adult of which damages vegetation and the larvae infest the roots
What is a "cockchafer"?
A cockchafer is a type of large beetle belonging to the family Scarabaeidae. These beetles are characterized by their robust bodies, dark brown or black coloration, and distinctively veined wings. Cockchafers are most commonly seen during the spring months, hence their name "May bug." They are nocturnal insects and are attracted to light sources at night. Cockchafers play important ecological roles as decomposers, feeding on decaying organic matter, and their larvae contribute to soil health. However, they can also be considered agricultural pests due to their feeding habits on the roots of various plants.
