The summer chafer (Amphimallon solstitiale) is similar in appearance in many ways to its cousin, the cock-chafer. It is, however, much smaller being about half the size of the cock chafer. The cock-chafer is known as the May bug as it flies mainly in May but the summer chafer flies in June and July so it is not hard to work out why it is called the summer chafer! Although nocturnal they are attracted to light and you may find one indoors if you have the light on and a window open. If you do have one in you home they are harmless and do not bite!
This is mainly a species of dry, deciduous woodlands where it forms large swarms around the tops of trees after dusk. The larvae feed on plant roots and can be considered a bit of a pest in some places. Controls on the population mean they are less common than they once were.
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