I think they're Japanese beetles. They have infested my rose of sharon flowers, mostly eating the flowers before they open up. I don't like to spray them with dangerous poisons, because I've seen birds hanging around the trees, and I don't want them to get sick from eating poisoned bugs. You can get Japanese beetle traps at the hardware store that are supposed to work really well, but they sure don't make nice garden decorations! I've tried spraying them with a mixture of water and dishwashing liquid. They really hate it and I have a lot more flowers blooming.

There are arguments on both sides when it comes to using JB traps. It's true they kill the beetles, but they attract them in order to do it and when you draw them to your yard, many find your plants. Take an empty plastic milk or water jug, cut most of the top off leaving the handle to carry it, and fill about 1/3 of it with very soapy water. Knock them into the mixture and swish it around. They like to drop when you disturb them and if you have the container right under your bloom, most will land in the soapy water.

One interesting note about the JB traps. I had both bluebirds and mockingbirds sit on the arm where I hung the trap and wait for dinner to come to them! Smart birds.

But because of this I'd be hesitant to spray poisons on them. Wouldn't want to hurt any bluebirds.

Deb in PA

Sorry, not Japanese beetles. Wrong color, shape, and size.

Jean is right, those are NOT Japanese Beetles!