This is one of our largest shieldbugs, as well as being one of the more widespread and common species. It is a primarily green species with two diagonal brown bands on the wing cases and a brown wing membrane towards the posterior end of the abdomen. The ‘shoulders’ or lateral ends of the pronotum have darkened pointed tips. Overwintering individuals are often darker and duller with more brown colouration.
Distribution in Ireland: Widespread throughout and common.
Habitat: Found in a wide range of habitats but typically those with deciduous trees, such as deciduous and mixed woodlands, hedgerows, farmland, heathland edges, scrub, parks and gardens.
Habits: This is a herbivorous species which feeds on a range of deciduous plant species, particularly Hawthorn but also Hazel and various oaks and birches. It is usually found on these trees and shrubs, typically at around head-height and visual searching and beating of the lower branches is an effective way of finding this species. It may be seen throughout the year, with the nymphs active between May and October. Overwintering takes place as an adult, typically in evergreen vegetation such as Ivy, Gorse and various conifers.
