Sugarcane Beetle

What it looks like

You'll see small holes and bits of pushed-up soil near the base of grass plants, mostly from adult beetles feeding at night. The larvae look similar to white grubs, but they aren't usually the ones causing the damage — it's the adults doing the chewing.

Often mistaken for: White grubs (larvae look alike, but aren't the main cause of damage)

When it shows up in the Triangle

Adults are most active in spring, generally April through May, in the Triangle.

Where you’ll see it

Affects home lawns where adult beetles feed on grass stems near the soil surface.

What you can do

• Avoid overly wet or soggy soil, since it attracts adults
• Reduce excess organic matter/thatch buildup in the lawn
• Consider a light trap to monitor when adults are flying nearby