All Beetles are classified in the Order Coleoptera. The Family Scarabaeidae has seven subfamilies, including Rutelinae; the Christmas Beetles. These feed on grass roots as larvae and can defoliate trees as adults. The shiny brown beetle shown here is a Anoplognathus species.

They are attracted to lights at night and loudly buzz around. The example shown here was found dead under a porch light at the Cottage at Manna Park, 24^th December 2009 (T.Hastings). It is believed they are called Christmas Beetles as they are often seen at Christmas time. This poor fellow probably was attacked by ants, and he has a missing leg and antennae.

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