The Rhode Island Natural History Survey confirmed the identification of an adult

Cotinis nitida L. (green June beetle) found in Westerly in early August (see photo). A common southern and mid-Atlantic species, this is the first documented record of this species in Rhode Island, although it is known from Connecticut and has probably been in Rhode Island in low numbers for some time. Its presence here may represent a northward range expansion, perhaps due to climate warming or another habitat factor.

Like its cousin Popillia japonica (Japanese beetle), and other Scarabaieidae, the green June beetle is a significant pest of turf. The grubs eat grass roots but also do significant damage by tunneling, especially in close cropped grass and soil with a high organic content (lawns, turf farms, golf courses). If you’ve found this beetle, let us know.

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