Course: Flower Chafers of the UK

Flower chafer beetles are a subgroup of beetles within the family Scarabaeidae, specifically the subfamily Cetoniinae. These beetles are often brightly coloured and are named for their association with flowers, where they feed on nectar, pollen, and soft plant tissues.

This presentation explores the colourful world of flower chafer beetles, with a focus on the 8 species found in the UK. From the common metallic green Rose Chafer” to Bee Beetle bee mimics and the recently established Mediterranean Spotted Chafer, we’ll delve into their ecology, behaviour, and identification features.

At the end of the session, learners should feel more comfortable submitting records of the following species to iRecord:

• European Rose Chafer (Cetonia aurata)
• Copper Chafer (Protaetia cuprea)
• Mediterranean Spotted Chafer (Oxythyrea funesta)
• Noble chafer (Gnorimus nobilis)
• Variable Chafer (Gnorimus variabilis)
• Western Bee Chafer (Trichius fasciatus)
• Eastern Bee Chafer (Trichius gallicus)
• Chequered Chafer (Valgus hemipterus)

This session is perfect for naturalists, entomologists, and anyone curious about the hidden diversity in our gardens and countryside. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for these remarkable insects.

The 90-minute event will consist of a 1-hour presentation followed by a Q&A with the tutor using questions provided by the live audience. The presentation will be recorded and made available following the event to those booked alongside a transcript of the Q&A and useful links.