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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, it has since spread rapidly and during 2008-2011 influxes of immigrants were reported from the coast of southern England, with a wide scatter of records inland.

The bug feeds on pines and is probably well-established here; nymphs have been found at several locations. 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

see illustrated life stages chart		 Have you seen this bug? Report a sighting

Leptoglossus occidentalis
Adult: Cornwall (October 2010) ©Tristan Bantock
Leptoglossus occidentalis Leptoglossus occidentalis
Adult: Cumbria (October 2008) ©Rob Petley-Jones
Adult: Sussex (August 2008) ©Andy Phillips
Leptoglossus occidentalis
Early instar nymph: south London (July 2010) ©Tristan Bantock