Hawthorn Shieldbug - Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale

Length 13-15 mm. A distinctive species, although confusion with the smaller and less elongate Birch Shieldbug is possible. The lateral extensions of the pronotum are larger in A. haemorrhoidale, and are marked with red, while the scutellum is green and the abdomen frequently red-tipped.

Birch Shieldbug (Elasmostethus interstinctus)

Mixed woodland, hedgerows etc.

Adult: All year

Overwinters as an adult, emerging and mating in the spring. The larvae occur May-October, feeding mainly on Hawthorn berries, although a range of other deciduous trees are also used, including Oak, Hazel and Birch. The new generation is complete from August/September or even later; adults may become darker before hibernation.

Common and widespread across Britain, becoming scarce in Scotland.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.