Forest Shieldbug

Name: Forest Shieldbug

Scientific name: Pentatoma rufipes

Category: Minibeasts

Nature Stars: 50

What are nature stars?

About: At first glance, the Forest Shieldbug may appear very similar to the other 'spiked' species. However, the shoulders appear almost square cut, being rounded at the front with a projecting point at the rear, and this feature together with chequered black and cream flanks make the Forest Shieldbug quickly identifiable. It is also found in different habitats: the Forest Shieldbug is herbivorous, feeding on the sap of deciduous trees, particularly oaks growing along sheltered woodland edges or in clearings. This species overwinters as a nymph, with the adults present from July through to October.

How to identify: One of a group of three brown shield bugs with shoulder 'spikes'. The Forest Shieldbug is best told by the square cut shoulder 'spikes' and the chequered sides.

Where: Widespread.

Natural Superpowers

• Predator: 40
• Agility: 50
• Rarity: 30
• Cute factor: 40
• Traveller: 20

Fantastic fact:

Photograph credit: Photo credit tbc