Masked chafers (genus Cyclocephala, family Scarabaeidae) are medium-sized scarab beetles that are among the most common and destructive turf pests in Arizona's irrigated lawns and golf courses. Two species are particularly prevalent: the northern masked chafer (Cyclocephala borealis) and the southern masked chafer (Cyclocephala lurida). Adults are tan to light brown, 1/2–3/4 inch long, with a distinctive dark 'mask' marking on the head — giving the group its common name. Adults are nocturnal, fly to lights, and are active from June through August. Females lay eggs in moist, irrigated soil, and the resulting white grub larvae feed on grass roots from late summer through fall, causing the most damage in August–October. Grubs are C-shaped, cream-colored, with a brown head capsule, and reach about 3/4–1 inch in length. In Arizona's desert climate, masked chafer infestations are concentrated in irrigated turf areas — golf courses, parks, sports fields, and residential lawns. Damage appears as irregular brown patches in late summer that feel spongy underfoot and pull up easily. Masked chafer grubs are the most common white grub species found in Arizona turf.