Billbugs are turfgrass pests that damage lawns throughout the summer. Adult Billbugs are small weevils, about 1/3 inch long. They have a distinctive downward-sloping snout, and two-clubbed antenna atop their head. However, it is the white, legless Billbug Grub, or larvae that does the primary damage to turf.
Damage
Adults Billbugs lay eggs in holes they've chewed in grass stems and the larvae further damage the lawn by feeding on the grass stems and literally chewing off the roots of the turf. This results in expanding brown patches in the lawn.
Location
Billbugs are found throughout the United States, excluding South Florida.
Similar or Related Pests
Annual Bluegrass Weevils and Grubs
Cultural Solutions
- Follow recommended irrigation and fertilizer rates for your grass type.
- Keep your lawn cut at high-end height recommendation.