Shield Bug
ExploreInsects
Shield Bug
Pentatomidae
The Shield Bug is a colorful bug that often rests on plants. They have a shield-like shape that helps them blend in!
Habitat: Gardens, fields, and woodlands
Appearance
The Shield Bug is a distinctively flattened, shield-shaped insect, often found in shades of green, brown, or sometimes vibrant metallic hues. Its broad, triangular scutellum, a plate covering part of its back, helps differentiate it from other bugs and beetles.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHemipteraFamilyPentatomidae
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Shield bugs are part of the 'true bugs' group, meaning they have straw-like mouths!
Some shield bug moms guard their eggs and babies from danger!
There are over 5,000 different kinds of shield bugs found worldwide!
They can accidentally hitchhike into your house during colder weather.
Special abilities
Ability
Stink Defense
Shield Bug can release a smelly liquid when threatened, because it helps them deter predators.
Ability
Perfect Blend
Shield Bug has a flattened, shield-like body that helps them camouflage seamlessly with foliage.
Ability
Plant Sapper
Shield Bug can pierce plants with its straw-like mouthparts because it helps them drink nutritious sap.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 15-40 mm
- Size
- 5-20 mm
- Lifespan
- 60-365 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Shield Bugs primarily drink plant sap, but some also enjoy munching on other small insects.
Primary Foods
- Plant sap
- Fruits
- Seeds
- Caterpillars
- Aphids
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eats
House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
often preys on adult and larval shield bugs.
parasitizes
Feather-legged Fly
Trichopoda pennipes
larvae develop inside shield bug adults and nymphs.
eaten by
Apple
Malus domestica
feeds on the developing fruits and leaves of apple trees.
eaten by
Corn
Zea mays
sucks sap from corn kernels, causing damage.
Traits
Wildlife
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Shield Stink BugStink Bug
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shield Bug's wingspan?
15-40 mm
How big is Shield Bug?
5-20 mm
How long does Shield Bug live?
60-365 days
What does Shield Bug eat?
Shield Bugs primarily drink plant sap, but some also enjoy munching on other small insects.
Where is Shield Bug usually found?
Gardens, fields, and woodlands
How does Shield Bug hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Shield Bug have?
6
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