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Leptoglossus occidentalis
Western Conifer Seed Bug
Family: Coreidae

A very large and spectacular squashbug which has characteristic expansions on the hind tibiae and a white zigzag mark across the centre of the forewings.

Native to the USA and introduced into Europe in 1999, this species has since spread rapidly and during the autumn of 2008 and 2009 influxes of immigrants were reported from the coast of southern England, with a wide scatter of  records inland.

The bug feeds on pines and seems
very likely to become established here; nymphs have so far been found at one location. It is attracted to light and may enter buildings in search of hibernation sites in the autumn.

Further information

Adult: All year
Length ~20 mm
Leptoglossus occidentalis
Adult: Suffolk (September 2009) ©Stuart Read

Leptoglossus occidentalis Leptoglossus occidentalis
Adult: Cumbria (October 2008) ©Rob Petley-Jones

Adult: Sussex (August 2008) ©Andy Phillips