Rhyzobius forestieri

Fairly small, about 3.2 mm long and 2.3 mm wide (slightly smaller than a 22 Spot Ladybird). The head, prothorax and elytra are very dark brown to black, and covered in short pale hairs which can give it a rather silvery appearance. It is strongly domed. The antennae and part of the abdomen (underside of the body) are both reddish-brown colour.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. It is recommended that specimens be retained for examination by the County Recorder for VC55.

Usually found on ornamental plants in parks and gardens, but can occur in deeply shaded woodland settings, and can be searched for on Holly and Ivy during winter.

May be encountered in almost any month of the year by beating various trees and bushes.

The adult and larval ladybirds eat scale insects.

First recorded in Britain in 2014 it has spread throughout the London area and seems to be moving further north.

The Shearsby garden record of 18th August 2020 is the first record for Leicestershire and Rutland although it may become more frequent in our area, and is possibly overlooked due to its small size.