From May through October, rose chafers are often spotted on warm, sunny days, feeding on flowers - particularly dog roses. While their nibbling may worry some gardeners, rose chafers are more friend than foe. Their larvae develop deep in compost heaps, leaf mould, or decaying wood, feeding on rotting vegetation and helping to recycle nutrients back into the soil. They are often found in composting piles. As adults, their hairy bodies pick up pollen, allowing them to play a small but helpful role in pollination, making rose chafers a surprisingly valuable part of a healthy garden ecosystem.

Measuring around 20mm in length, these large beetles are not to be confused with the noble chafer. These striking beetles can be distinguished from the noble by the small, V-shaped scutellum (a triangular plate between the wings) visible on their backs. Although widespread in the UK, they are most common in the south. 

Their lifecycle is also fascinating: they spend one to two years as larvae underground, moulting twice before pupating in late summer. Adults may emerge in spring or occasionally autumn, with their main active season falling between May and October. After mating, females lay eggs in rotting vegetation to begin the cycle again.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust offers free, practical gardening advice to help transform gardens, balconies, or shared green spaces into havens for nature – including the rose chafer. Resources cover everything from pond building to wildflower planting, and seasonal tips. Whether you’re just getting started or already nurturing a nature-rich plot, the Trust’s Team Wilder initiative provides the tools and support to make every outdoor space count for wildlife.

Our Wilder Garden Champions also offer free one-to-one wildlife gardening advice sessions. Trained volunteers can provide friendly, practical help, either in person or online. Whether you're new to gardening or already growing for nature, the Champions can help you create space for wildlife and boost your garden's biodiversity.

Rose chafers are a perfect example of the kinds of insects you might attract by making space for nature. Though they may nibble the occasional flower petal, their presence is a welcome sign of a thriving, balanced garden.

To find out more, and to book a free session with a Wilder Garden Champion, visit our Team Wilder Gardening Advice page