Green on Mauve

When the Swamp Milkweed plants bloom, I regularly check the blossoms for Monarch Butterflies. On this day, I found Green June Beetles instead.

I shouldn’t have been surprised. Green June Beetles emerge to mate in late July and August. This one was feasting on the nectar of the lovely mauve flowers of the Swamp Milkweed.

The chunky one-inch-long beetles of the southeastern U.S. are commonly seen flying low to the ground in yards in mid to late summer.

My only question is: if they hatch in late July, why are they called Green June Beetles?

A Green June Beetle on Swamp Milkweed blossoms. Photo by Bruce Stambaugh

Author: Bruce Stambaugh

I am a writer, author, photographer, birder, walker, hiker, husband, father, grandfather, brother, Anabaptist, and community activist. My life is crammed with all things people and nature and wonder. My late father gave me this penchant for giving and getting the most out of life, my late mother the courtesy, kindness, and creativity to see the joy in life. They both taught me to cherish the people I am with. I try and fail and try again. View all posts by Bruce Stambaugh

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