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Crows Plucking Grass / Chafer Beetle Grub Eradication #823981

Asked March 30, 2023, 3:13 PM EDT

Hi there,

We have had crows plucking at our grass now for months. I think I have figured out what is going on, but wanted to check and see what you thought. I have these white grubs in my lawn, and the crows are plucking out the entire lawn. 

Are these chafer beetle grubs, and if so, what is the best way to eradicate them? I just applied beneficial nematodes that target stationary pests like grubs and hope those work. If they don't what is the next best step? Ideally, the crows stop ruining our lawn. 

Thank you,

Catherine Hopkins

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question, Catherine.  Here is the Extension resource that has the answers:
https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/turfgrass/turfgrass-white-grub
The nematodes should be effective so long as you followed label directions.  But if they are not, you can escalate to one of the recommended chemical controls.  Start your control efforts next fall, and you may avoid another generation.  Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 30, 2023, 3:56 PM EDT

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