Both groups of Insects feed below ground and damage roots or the growing crown area of the plant. Infestations also may attract predators, such as skunks and raccoons, that dig and damage lawns in search of the Insects. Adult weevils can be seen crossing sidewalks and driveways during late summer or spring. In spring and summer, adults cause minor injuries to grasses as the females cut small holes in the stems of plants and insert their eggs. Billbug grubs are legless, generally white or cream, with a brown head.
Young grubs feed within the crown area of the plant and kill it.
The stems of infested plants are easily detached at the soil surface. Older billbug larvae feed in the lower crown and plant root zone. Small piles of light sawdust-like material are produced during feeding. Billbug injury is most common on new lawns, particularly those established with sod. Within lawns, most damage occurs near evergreen shrubbery or other protective sites.