Southern Masked Chafer
MODERATECyclocephala lurida
Overview
Attracted to light at night. The plant on which the insect is resting (sweet Joe Pye weed) is located beside an exterior light that was illuminated.
- Type
- Insect
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- iNaturalist
Symptoms
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Targeted Insecticide Application
Apply appropriate insecticide following label directions. Timing is critical — treat during the vulnerable larval or adult emergence stage for maximum effectiveness.
Biological Control Agents
Introduce or encourage natural predators and parasitoids. Options include releasing predatory beetles, parasitic wasps, or applying Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar pests.
Infested Material Removal
Prune and destroy infested branches and plant material. Remove fallen debris that may harbor eggs or larvae. Dispose of material away from healthy trees.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Southern Masked Chafer. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Knocks down soft-bodied pests like aphids, mites, and scale crawlers.
Smothers overwintering eggs and crawlers; dormant or summer rates.
Soil-applied protection taken up by the tree for season-long control.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Southern Masked Chafer?
Attracted to light at night. The plant on which the insect is resting (sweet Joe Pye weed) is located beside an exterior light that was illuminated.
What are the symptoms of Southern Masked Chafer?
Where is Southern Masked Chafer currently found?
Southern Masked Chafer is currently active in Arkansas, North Carolina, New Mexico, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Maryland, California, Georgia, Missouri, Utah, Kansas, Iowa, Texas, Alabama, New Jersey, Nebraska, Kentucky, South Dakota, Virginia, New York, Michigan, West Virginia, Delaware, Colorado, Oklahoma, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Arizona, Mississippi, South Carolina. It has been reported in 33 total states across the United States.
How do I treat Southern Masked Chafer?
Treatment options for Southern Masked Chafer include: Targeted Insecticide Application, Biological Control Agents, Infested Material Removal. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.