28/05/2026
PEST HIGHLIGHT
Cockchafers are causing a lot of pasture damage currently in a range of soil types. While they are mainly found in lighter, well draining soils and on slopes, we are seeing some in heavier soil environments.
This pest is at large in May-June-July. There are two types of pasture cockchafers-
Black-headed:
These are what we more commonly find closer to the surface. They feed both in the root zone and on the surface, and are particularly active after a rain event.
Red-headed:
These have been considered harder to eradicate out of the two types of cockchafers, due to their usual habits of dwelling deeper in the soil and predominately feeding on humus and roots in the root zone. However, we have seen a lot of this pest closer to the surface and behaving live the black-headed this season.
Controls are more limited this season due to the loss of some chemical options. Seed coatings, paddock renovation, and some insecticides are available to aid in the management of this pest.
Chat to our agronomists at Terang, Colac or Koroit about your options.
