The cockchafer, also called a May bug, may look alarming, but it is completely harmless to humans and pets. It does not bite, sting, or infest homes, and those noticeable pincers are only used for eating leaves. These insects are outdoor beetles that sometimes accidentally fly indoors at night because they are strongly attracted to bright lights. Their loud, clumsy flying style often causes the unmistakable “whap” sound when they hit walls or light fixtures.

Bathrooms are especially attractive to cockchafers because they combine bright lighting, warm air, and sometimes open windows or vents. During late spring, usually from April to May, adult cockchafers emerge for a short flying season that lasts only a few weeks. Males spend evenings searching for mates and can easily become confused by indoor lighting, especially in rooms with shiny surfaces that reflect light strongly.

If you find one inside, there is no need to panic. The best approach is to switch off the light, open a window, and allow the insect to leave on its own. You can also gently trap it with a cup and paper and release it outside onto a tree or bush. Squashing, flushing, or spraying chemicals is unnecessary and should be avoided.

Although gardeners sometimes dislike them for nibbling leaves, cockchafers play an important ecological role. Their larvae help aerate soil and recycle organic matter, while both larvae and adults provide food for birds, bats, and hedgehogs. Their return in many areas is considered a positive sign for biodiversity and healthier ecosystems.