Fire bug

Pyrrhocoris apterus

Firebugs can appear in large numbers in gardens and parks during the summer months. This insect family owes its name to its striking coloration. Predominantly fiery red with a black head and shield, the pronotum with a black central spot. The body is flattened and elongated oval. Length: 9-13 mm Development: Mating takes place from April to May. The females lay 50-60 eggs under old leaves. Like the bug, the larva is red-black in color. One generation per year, the adult bugs overwinter. Feeding: Sucks on fallen seeds, especially from lime trees, but also on other insects. Distribution: Central and southern Europe, Asia.