Pyrrhocoris apterus

Pyrrhocoris apterus

Description

Length 8-10mm. A distinctive species and the sole member of its family to occur in the UK. Usually brachypterous in Britain, but macropterous adults have recently been recorded.

Similar Species

Corizus hyoscyami is superficially similar although not closely related. 

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required.

Habitat

Usually associated with Tree Mallow and Lime trees, feeding on the fruits. Forms dense and conspicuous aggregations.

When to see it

All year.

UK Status

Historically very rare but now spreading rapidly from the south east.

VC55 Status

Newly arrived (2026) but likely to become common.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured squares = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records