Cinnamon bug

A cinnamon bug, red with black markings, resting on a leaf

Cinnamon bug © Tom Hibbert

Cinnamon bug

This distinctive black and red bug is an increasingly common sight across much of Britain.

Scientific name

Corizus hyoscyami

When to see

All year (but mainly April - October)

Species information

Statistics

Length: around 9 mm
Least concern

About

This brightly coloured bug was once only found in coastal areas of southern Britain. However, in recent decades it has spread rapidly. It can now be found throughout most of Britain, reaching as far north as Scotland. It can be spotted on a variety of plants in almost any location, from woodland rides to gardens. It spends the winter as an adult, with the next generation of adults appearing from late summer.

How to identify

The cinnamon bug is easily recognised thanks to its distinctive black and red markings and the dense hairs on its legs and body.

Distribution

Widespread in England and Wales, also recorded in Scotland and on the Isle of Man.

Did you know?

The cinnamon bug is also known as the black-and-red squash bug.