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Eurygaster maura Family: Scutelleridae Fairly large shieldbugs, the two Eurygaster species are often known as Tortoise Bugs. The ground colour and intensity of the markings are variable. This species is distinguished from the slightly larger and much more common E. testudinaria by the shape of the head, which is smoothly rounded and lacks a central depression. In addition, the 2nd antennal segment is at least twice as long as the 3rd (but only slightly longer in E. testudinaria). Note that these characters are not reliable for all specimens; genitalic examination is the only means of confirming identity in such cases. This species overwinters as an adult, emerging and mating in the spring. Larvae feed mainly on grasses between May-August, becoming adult from July. A scarce species confined to southern England, recorded mainly from chalk grassland in Kent and Surrey. Adult: All year Length 8.5-10 mm
	Adult: Kent (July 2009) ©Stuart Read
Adult: Kent (July 2009) ©Stuart Read	Adult: Kent (July 2009) ©Stuart Read