Phyllobius argentatus

This is another of the green Phyllobius weevils, the most common of which is Phyllobius pomaceus. Phyllobius argentatus is a smaller species (Size around 4 to 6mm), and usually a brighter golden green colour. Under a lens it has round scales and is covered with fine white hairs. It also has pale red/yellow femora. The front femora are relatively swollen with a large tooth.

Several of the other Phyllobius beetles are very similar and are best distinguished with a lens. P. argentatus can be identified by the combination of round scales and the yellow/red toothed femora. See our ID Guide to Phyllobius weevils.

Whilst commonly an arboreal species found on broadleaf trees it can also be found on low herbaceous vegetation such as nettles.

Late April to early July.

Widespread and common in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 54 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.

Eakring Birds has a useful introduction to the common Phyllobius weevils.