About Cockchafer
A large, clumsy-flying chafer beetle that emerges en masse on warm May evenings. Its white C-shaped larvae are familiar agricultural pests across Europe.
Did You Know?
In medieval Europe, cockchafer swarms were so destructive that they were once put on trial in court.
How to Identify Cockchafer
Cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 25-30 mm.
Cockchafer Habitat
Cockchafer is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Cockchafer Diet and Feeding
Cockchafer feeds on plant roots, typically during its larval stage. Root feeders can affect plant health and are sometimes considered agricultural pests.
Where Is Cockchafer Found?
Cockchafer can be found in Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Cockchafer can be found
Is Cockchafer Dangerous?
Cockchafer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Cockchafer Role in Nature
Cockchafer is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Cockchafer
What does Cockchafer look like?
The Cockchafer typically measures 25-30 mm.
Where is Cockchafer found?
The Cockchafer is found in Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Europe and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Cockchafer eat?
The Cockchafer feeds on plant roots.
Is Cockchafer dangerous to humans?
The Cockchafer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Cockchafer?
In medieval Europe, cockchafer swarms were so destructive that they were once put on trial in court.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cockchafer
MLA:
"Cockchafer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/cockchafer.