Pigeon Bug vs Hawthorn Shieldbug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Pigeon Bug Hawthorn Shieldbug
Scientific Name Cimex columbarius Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale
Order Hemiptera Hemiptera
Family Cimicidae Acanthosomatidae
Size 4-5 mm 13-17 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Blood Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Pigeon Bug

A cimicid ectoparasite of pigeons and doves found in nest sites and dovecotes across Europe. It can bite humans in buildings with pigeon infestations.

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Did You Know?

Removing pigeon nests from buildings without treating for these bugs often drives them indoors to bite residents.

Hawthorn Shieldbug

A large green-and-red shieldbug common on hawthorn trees across Europe. It produces a strong, pungent smell from thoracic scent glands when handled.

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Did You Know?

Its red-tipped abdomen peeking out from under the green wings gives it the memorable alternative name 'red-rumped shieldbug.'