Western Conifer Seed Bug

Or to give it its posh name, Leptoglossus occidentalis.  A native of the USA, accidentally introduced to the UK in 1999, and now found throughout.

It's quite big - the body and head are the best part of 2cm long, with the antennae it is 3cm long!  We found it hiding in W's workshop, and I brought it up to the patio to photograph.  My insect book is elderly, and did not include it.  But the power of the internet has identified it.


I'd already decided on my blip for the day when we found it, so I've added the original photo as an extra - the beautiful black bark of Betula nigra (also a native of the USA).