A medium-sized species which looks like a diminutive version of the Hawthorn Shieldbug. It can be identified by its smaller size, more rounded ‘shoulders’ (or lateral edges of the pronotum), greater amount of brown colouration and a clear patch in the wing membrane towards the posterior end of the abdomen.
Distribution in Ireland: Widespread throughout Ireland and fairly common.
Habitat: Found in a wide variety of habitats which support birches and other deciduous trees, such as deciduous and mixed woodlands, heathland and bogland edges, scrub, parks and sometimes gardens.
Habits: Both adults and nymphs feed primarily on birches, particularly Downy Birch, although other trees such as Alder and Hazel may also be used. The best method to find it is to hand-search or beat the lower branches of these trees, particularly where they are exposed to the sun. Overwintering occurs as an adult, typically in evergreen vegetation such as Ivy, Holly, Yew and in a variety of other coniferous trees.
