DESCRIPTION: Length 7 to 8.5mm. A common Soldier Beetle best recognised by the reddish-orange legs with black tips to the hind femurs and sometimes on the middle femurs as well. The head, thorax and elytra are all orange with the latter covered in long flat hairs found amongst scattered erect ones. The palps are all yellow-orange. BEHAVIOUR: A skulking species seen in rich vegetation. When approached this species, like many of its brethren, simply give up their foothold and fall deeper in the undergrowth. DISTRIBUTION: Common in England and Wales and but more localised in Scotland. HABITAT: Woodland clearings, hedgerows and lush meadows especially where umbellifers and thistles abound. PERIOD: Widespread throughout England, Wales, more local in Scotland. |
