Why are there so many beetles in North Texas right now? Here’s what experts say
You’ve probably noticed them crashing into your porch light, buzzing around your front door or flying straight into your window.
For many North Texans, it can seem like beetles appeared overnight.
But if you’re suddenly seeing more of them around your home, experts say there’s a reason.
Here’s what’s behind the surge.
Why are there so many beetles in North Texas right now?
Many of the beetles showing up right now have actually been developing underground for months.
According to experts with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, they begin as grubs in the soil, where they feed on roots before making their way to the surface as adults.
Because many of them complete that process around the same time, large numbers can seem to appear almost overnight in late spring or early summer. That’s also where the nickname “June bug” comes from.
Warm weather can make the surge even more noticeable. As temperatures rise, more adult beetles become active and start moving around.
Many are also attracted to light, which is why they often gather around porch lights, front doors and windows after dark.
Are beetles helpful or harmful?
Experts say beetles can be both beneficial and problematic, depending on their stage of life.
Adult beetles serve as a source of food for birds, lizards, fish and other wildlife, while some species help recycle nutrients back into the soil.
But during their time underground as grubs, they may damage lawns and other plants by feeding on their roots, according to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
When populations become large enough, patches of grass may turn brown, thin out or pull up easily from the soil.
Even so, seeing adult beetles around your home doesn’t necessarily mean your yard has a grub problem. Experts say treatment is generally only recommended when grub populations become large enough to cause noticeable damage.
In other words, while some beetles can damage lawns and gardens, most of the ones people notice flying around this time of year are more of a seasonal nuisance than a serious threat.
How can I keep beetles away from my house?
If beetles keep showing up around your home at night, outdoor lights may be part of the reason.
Pest control experts recommend switching to yellow bug lights, which tend to attract fewer insects than traditional bulbs.
Repairing damaged window screens and sealing gaps around your home can also make it harder for beetles to get inside.
If they’re becoming a nuisance outdoors, experts recommend placing shallow containers filled with soapy water in areas where the insects tend to gather.
For gardens, covering vulnerable plants with lightweight netting may help protect leaves and flowers from feeding damage.
