Parent Bug

Elasmucha grisea

This type of shieldbug is reddish with a black and white border on its body and usually features a distinct black mark on the scutellum. The species hibernates as an adult, emerging in the spring to mate. The males are smaller than females and have a short lifespan. Females live longer, taking care of the eggs and young larvae that feed on birch and alder. Adults can be observed throughout the year and may grow up to 9 mm in length.