Mottled Shieldbug - Rhaphigaster nebulosa

Length 14 to 16 mm.  A large shieldbug which has banded antennae and distinctive dark mottled markings on the wing membrane, although these are variable in extent. It may superficially resemble Hairy Shieldbug (Dolycoris baccarum), but lacks hairs.

A polyphagous species associated with a range of deciduous trees on the continent.

All year round.

First recorded in Britain from the London area in 2010, following population expansion on the near continent. Found to be well-established in parts of south London during 2011 with further records in London since.

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland, the Magna Park record on 5th April 2018 is the first record of this species in VC55.