Does a Cockchafer Sting?

Do cockchafers sting or bite? The intimidating sharp point at the tip of a cockchafer's abdomen is not a sting, but a pygidium – used by females to push their eggs deep into the soil.

Can cockchafers hurt you?

You can often see cockchafers on May evenings buzzing around the garden, which is why they are often known as the 'May bug'. As large, noisy insects they can be a little frightening, but are actually harmless to humans. However, they can considerably damage garden plants and crops.

What do cockchafers sound like?

The common cockchafer is the UK's largest scarab beetle (scarabs include dung beetles and chafers). With its rusty-brown wing cases, pointed 'tail' and fan-like antennae it is unmistakeable. It is a clumsy flier and makes a buzzing sound.