Birch Catkin Bug - Kleidocerys resedae

Length 4.5-5.5 mm. A rust-coloured bug. The forewings are patterned and largely transparent, with the corium and clavus punctate. The clavus has three rows of punctures. 

K. ericae is very similar but slightly smaller and found on heathland where it is associated with heather and has not been recorded in VC55.

Relatively easy to identify and unlikely to be confused with anything else.

On or around Birch trees.

Adult: all year.

Adults overwinter, emerging and breeding in the early spring, when they fly and emit mating calls using a strigil found on one of the hind wing veins. Nymphs occur between March and September and there are several generations a year, at least in the south.

Common and found throughout England, Wales and southern Ireland.

Very common in Leicestershire and Rutland.