Birch Catkin Bug vs Cotton Stainer Bug
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Birch Catkin Bug | Cotton Stainer Bug |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Kleidocerys resedae | Dysdercus suturellus |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hemiptera |
| Family | Lygaeidae | Pyrrhocoridae |
| Size | 4-5 mm | 12-17 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Heathland |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Seed Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, northern Asia, North America | North America, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Birch Catkin Bug
A small, oval brown seed bug that feeds on birch and alder catkins. It is very common in northern Europe and can form large swarms in autumn. It sometimes enters buildings in large numbers seeking overwintering shelter.
Did You Know?
In autumn, enormous swarms of thousands can descend on buildings near birch trees, alarming homeowners despite the bugs being completely harmless.
Cotton Stainer Bug
A red and black bug that stains cotton bolls by introducing fungal spores while feeding.
Did You Know?
Aggregations of hundreds gather on fallen cotton bolls and hibiscus seed pods.