The beetle family Scarabaeidae has a high diversity of species, and some of these have become important pests. Endemic scarab pests are known from all habitable continents but represent no more than a small percentage (probably 1–2%) of the total number of species. Some species have become international pests through human transport to new habitats. Scarab pests cause damage through larval feeding on plant roots or adult feeding on the aerial parts of plants. The pests are difficult to control due to the cryptic position of the larvae in the soil and the usually nocturnal activity of the adults. Chemical control is now focussed on specific chemicals with less residual activity. Biological control, especially with pathogens, has proven highly effective against some species, but control agents are often specific to a single species. Attractants ranging from sex pheromones to food lures have been isolated for scarabaeid species. Integration of control methods (IPM) has provided effective control of some species but there is a need for continued research to refine control measures and develop new options for management of this important group of pests.