A spectacular new arrival has appeared in Leicestershire and we are asking the public to report any sightings. The Western Conifer Seed Bug – Leptoglossus occidentalis is a large (2cm), colourful but harmless insect, that feeds on the sap of conifer cones but may turn up in houses later in the year as it looks for a hibernation site. More...

Originally from the western states of the USA, over the last 50 years or so it has begun to colonise the world, first moving eastwards to reach New York in 1990 and then somehow appearing in Italy in 1999, probably transported with plants or timber. Since then it has continued its European conquest and after expanding its range through France it first arrived in Britain in 2007. It finally appeared in Leicestershire last year.

Unlike some exotic arrivals, this bug doesn’t seem to cause any threat to our native species so it makes a fascinating addition to our local wildlife.

Its relatively large size, bright colours plus a white zig-zag line across its wings help to make this bug easy to spot. It also has long back legs with enlarged ‘calves’. Though it is harmless to humans, it will release a smelly spray if handled roughly.

If you spot a Western Conifer Seed Bug, do submit a record and let us know.  A photo is always useful to help confirm the species.

All submitted wildlife records help to add to the County's conservation knowledge base.

See the species library entry for Western Conifer Seed Bug.