Dock Bug

The Dock Bug is a sturdy, reddish-brown shield bug measuring 13 to 15 millimetres in length. It can be told apart from other Coreus species by its fairly even colour and less noticeable projections on its abdomen. The top part of its body has sharp side points, and its antennae have alternating light and dark sections. Adults are usually seen from May to October. It is common across England and Wales but becomes less common in Scotland and Ireland. It prefers rough grassland, hedgerows, edges of fields, and waste ground where its main food plants grow. The bug mainly feeds on docks and sorrels, especially Broad-leaved Dock. It uses its piercing mouthparts to suck sap from seeds and stems. You will often find it resting on plants in sunny weather. If it is disturbed, it may give off a strong-smelling defensive fluid typical of this group of bugs.