Scymnus interruptus

A tiny (1.5 to 2.2 mm), hairy ladybird.  It is very distinctive. Being black with a red triangle on each wing case. Diagnostically these reach the side of the wing case and even extend to the underside edge (the epipleuron). Some also show red around the face area.  The legs are brown.

Although the species is quite distinctive, it appears to be very uncommon in our area so an image is requested to support any record for the time being.

Hedges, bushes and shrubs, often in garden locations. Sometimes associated with ivy.

All year round.

Food: mealybugs and armoured scale insects.

Its stronghold is the south east of England but it seems to be extending its range further north.

Rare or rarely recorded in Leicestershire and Rutland, but may be overlooked due to its small size.