Stenodema laevigata

An elongated Grass bug that is similar to several other species. Members in the genus have coarse, densely pitted pronotum. S. laevigata differs from the others by lacking femoral spurs; there is also a notch in the underside of the hind femora. Adults and larvae prefer damp locations and consume unripe grains of grasses. Both sexes turn green during the mating season in spring and their larvae appear from May to July. The new adults seen from July onwards are straw-coloured. About 9mm long.

Miridius quadrivirgatus

Long-legged Mirid Bug that inhabits grassland. Adults, 9-11mm long, are seen in July and August. It has a long 1st antennal segment and diagnostic markings; stripes run the full length of the head, pronotum and scutellum. Once associated with coastal areas, but now becoming more common inland.

Knapweed Plant Bug

(Nymph)

Oncotylus viridiflavus

Vivid colouration and unique patterning makes this species easy to identify. Adults, 5-6mm long, are usually found on Knapweed flower-heads from July to September. Knapweed is the foodplant.

Harpocera thoracica

This plant bug is very common throughout Britain on oak and is usually seen during May and June. The sexes are very different in appearance. This is a female about 6mm in length.

Trivial Plant Bug

Closterotomus trivialis

A recent arrival to the UK seen from May until July. It is more common in Europe where it sometimes devastates olive and citrus crops. The body colour is variable, females are normally yellow and green with a yellow-green head. Males may be black and red. There are usually two black spots on the pronotum. Found on nettles, length about 7mm.