Hainault Forest
SHIELDBUG
Common Toad
Bufo bufo
TQ4892 08/04/2024 ©Raymond Small

Birch Shieldbug

Elasmostethus intersinctus


This species is smaller than the more elongated Hawthorn shieldbug, and the lateral extensions of the pronotum do not have red markings. It overwinters in the adult stage, emerging and mating in the spring. The larvae mainly feed on birch but may also be found on hazel and aspen. Adults can be found year-round and may reach a length of 11 mm.