Rose Chafer (Cetonia aurata)

Size: Large (20mm)

Identification: Usually metallic green with whote marks looking like cracks running width-ways across the elytra. They have a distinct V shaped scutellum (the small triangular area between the wing cases just below the thorax).The underside is a coppery colour. Rose chafers are capable of very fast flight; they do it with their wing cases down and when in flight, resemble a green bumble bee! Larvae are c-shaped with a very wrinkly, hairy body, a small head and small legs. The best way to identify the larvae is by their movement: they move on their backs.

Habitat: Meadows, parks, gardens and often on the coastal path. More often seen in sunny weather.

Lifecycle: Adults usually emerge in Spring when females mate, lay eggs in organic matter and die. Adults are seen May-July, sometimes to September. Adults feed on flowers (especially roses). The larvae overwinter in compost (helping to make fantastic compost), leaf litter or manure and pupate in June/July.  They have a 2 year lifecycle.

Similar species: None.

Field/laboratory: This species can be identified in the field.

Status in Pembrokeshire: Not common, but not rare.

UK status: Found throughout the UK, but possibly declining.