Invertebrates
Rose Chafer
Cetonia aurata · also called green rose chafer
On an elder flower in the June sun, a rose chafer glows metallic green, its wing cases shut as it lifts off through the small notches at their sides.
Overview
The rose chafer, Cetonia aurata, is a Not Evaluated beetle of woodland edges, meadows, and gardens across Europe and into western Asia. Its shining green body, flower-feeding habit, and closed-case flight make it one of the most beautiful beetles of European summers.
A beetle that flies with its cases shut
Most beetles lift their hard wing cases to fly, but the rose chafer opens small notches at their sides and sends its flight wings out through them.
Status
Not Evaluated globally, though widespread and locally common.
Rose Chafer: common questions
Why is it called the rose chafer?
It is named for its habit of feeding on flowers, including roses, where it gathers in warm sunshine.
Can the rose chafer fly with its wing cases closed?
Yes, it opens small notches at the sides of its wing cases and sends its flight wings out through them.
Where do rose chafer grubs live?
They live in rotting wood, compost heaps, and leaf litter, taking two or three years to mature.
Where is the rose chafer found?
It lives in woodland edges, meadows, and gardens across Europe and into western Asia.