Brown shield bug (Coreus marginatus)

A large and mottled reddish-brown squash bug with a broad, oval abdomen. The two small projections between the antennae are diagnostic.

There is one generation per year, with adults mating and laying eggs in spring. The nymphs feed on dock and other related plants in the Polygonaceae; new adults may be found from August onwards. It is common and widespread in southern Britain as far north as Yorkshire, where it may be found in various dry and damp habitats.

Seen in the gardens of Chiswick House in August 2020

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