Hogweed Bonking Beetle

The Hogweed Bonking Beetle is a slender soldier beetle measuring 7-10mm long. It is easily recognised by its bright orange-red body with black markings at the tips of its wings. The area behind the head and the head itself are the same bright orange colour as the body. Adults are most often seen in July and August. They are commonly found mating on the flower heads of plants in the carrot family, especially hogweed and cow parsley. This is how they got their common name. This beetle is widespread and common across England, Wales and southern Scotland. It prefers habitats like hedgerows, meadows, edges of woodlands and gardens. The beetles feed on pollen and small insects. Their larvae live in leaf litter and soil, where they hunt other small creatures. Because they are so noticeable on white flowers during the height of summer, they are one of the soldier beetles most often seen in Britain.