Cabbage Seed Weevil - Ceutorhynchus obstrictus

Adults have round grey bodies (2 to 4 mm in length) and grey legs covered with fine white scales. Ceutorhynchus obstrictus has a long curved proboscis with small bent antennae. When disturbed, it displays the interesting behaviour of folding its legs and proboscis against its body to make it look like a small grey pebble.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the beetle's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed.

Around brassica plants.

Spring and summer.

The eggs are deposited into immature crucifer (Brassica sp.) pods. Larvae feed on developing seeds. The mature larvae bore out the side of the pod and burrow into the soil. Adults emerge 10-14 days after pupation begins and feed for the remainder of the season on pods and flowers storing fats for overwintering.

Fairly frequent and widespread in England and Wales.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.