Parent Bug - Elasmucha grisea
Description
Length 7-9 mm. A medium-sized red/brown shieldbug. There is usually an obvious black patch on the scutellum.
Habitat
Birch and Alder trees.
When to see it
Adult: All year.
Life History
This species overwinters as an adult, emerging and mating in the spring. The smaller male dies soon after, but the female survives for some time, brooding the eggs and young larvae, which feed on Birch and Alder. New adults may be found from August onwards.
UK Status
Common and widespread across Britain and Ireland.
VC55 Status
Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.
Leicestershire & Rutland Map
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