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The World of Minibeasts

Chafers: the ?? Chafer

 

One of the commonest chafers in central Europe is the ?? Chafer (Trichius fasciatus). It can be found on blooms during June and July, quite often on the common (Rubus fruticosus).  By its furry look and its color pattern it imitates a bumble bee, that has a poisonous sting to defend itself against enemies. Even on its upper wings the ?? Chafer is hairy. Most birds and lizards avoid catching bees, bumble bees and wasps, because they can hurt them.

The larvae of the ?? Chafer develop in rotting wood of trees. 

This picture shows the ?? Chafer flying. The elytra are spread off, while the transparent wings can hardly be seen in motion, except for a blurry shade in front of the hind part of the body. 

Pinselkäfer

?? Chafer Flying

The introduction of chafers is finished now. You may want to select a chapter once again from the bottom switch board or go to the top switch board to select a different story.

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Photograph by José Verkest, Text by Maria Pfeifer