Japanese beetles are an invasive species of beetle that are a major pest of over 300 plant species in the United States. They are most commonly found in the eastern states.
Japanese beetles are small, brown insects with bronze-colored wings. They are known to eat the leaves of plants, which can cause severe damage to crops and gardens.
Japanese beetles are eaten by various animals, including birds and insects. By encouraging these predators to be present around your home, you can reduce the number of Japanese beetles on your property and, therefore, the amount of damage inflicted on your plants!
What Are Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are a type of scarab beetle that is native to Japan. Adult Japanese beetles measure between 1/2 and 5/8 inch long and are metallic green in color with coppery brown wings.
The larvae, or grubs, are white with brown heads and measure up to 1 inch long. The larvae live in the soil and feed on the roots of grasses and other plants. The adults emerge from the ground in late spring and begin feeding on the leaves of plants.
From Japan To the US
Japanese beetles are one of the most destructive pests in the United States, wreaking havoc on gardens and lawns from coast to coast. Surprisingly, these pests are not originally from the US but hail from Japan, where they have several natural predators that help keep their populations in check. The climate in Japan is also relatively cool and humid, which keeps Japanese beetle numbers down.
It is believed that the first Japanese beetles arrived in the US in 1916, stowing away on a shipment of irises bound for the Eastern Seaboard. They gradually spread west and north, eventually becoming established throughout much of the eastern US and into Canada.
These beetles have also become established in several other countries worldwide in recent years. While they may be a nuisance to gardeners and homeowners, Japanese beetles are.
What Attracts Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles are attracted to several different factors. The most crucial factor is the presence of food. Japanese beetles will travel long distances in search of a suitable food source.
Once they find a good location, they will often stay there for the rest of their lives, laying eggs and continuing the cycle. In addition to food, Japanese beetles are also attracted to light and heat. This is why they are often seen in homes and businesses.
Japanese beetles are a problem for gardeners and farmers because they eat so many plants. There are very few plants that these pests will not eat. Some of their favorites include roses, grapes, and raspberries. Japanese beetles will also eat the leaves of trees, shrubs, and vegetables.
This feeding can damage plants and make them less likely to produce fruit or flowers. In addition, the larvae of these beetles feed on the roots of grasses and other plants, causing further damage.
Do Birds Eat Japanese Beetles
Yes, birds do eat Japanese beetles. Many birds are known to feed on these destructive pests. Some of the most common bird predators of Japanese beetles include bluebirds, robins, and woodpeckers.
These birds will often eat both the adults and the larvae of these beetles. By doing so, they help reduce the population of Japanese beetles and the amount of damage they cause.
How To Attract Birds
You can do several things to attract birds to your property. One of the best ways is to install a birdbath or fountain. These will provide water for the birds, essential for their survival.
You can also put out bird feeders filled with seeds, nuts, and berries. By providing food for the birds, you will be more likely to attract them to your property. In addition, you can plant trees and shrubs that are known to attract birds. By doing these things, you can help control the population of Japanese beetles on your property.
Will Birds Eat Dead Japanese Beetles?
Some birds eat dead Japanese beetles, but it is not their preferred food source. These birds are more likely to eat the larvae of these beetles, as they are a more nutritious meal.
However, if there are no other food sources available, birds will sometimes resort to eating dead Japanese beetles. If you find that there are a lot of dead Japanese beetles on your property, you can remove them to prevent the spread of the disease.
Do Birds Eat Japanese Beetles?: Conclusion
While Japanese beetles can be a nuisance, there are things that you can do to help control their population. One of the best ways is to attract birds to your property.
Birds will eat both the adults and the larvae of these beetles, which can help to reduce the amount of damage they cause. You can do some things to attract birds, including installing a birdbath or fountain, putting out bird feeders, and planting trees and shrubs that are known to attract birds.
By doing these things, you can help keep the population of Japanese beetles under control.
Related Article: Where Do Japanese Beetles Go At Night?