Tree Damsel Bug - Himacerus apterus

Length 8-11 mm. This genus has a black connexivum with orange-red spots, and rather reddish-brown wings, which do not usually reach beyond the 3rd or 4th abdominal segment.

Unlike other UK nabids, this is a tree-dwelling bug, found on deciduous species and less frequently on conifers, where it feeds on mites, aphids and other small insects.

Adult: July-October.

Adults lay eggs in late summer which hatch the following spring; larvae may be found May-August. The new adult generation is complete from July onwards.

It is common in much of England and Wales, becoming scarcer further north.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.