Topic: Does anyone know what this is?

[Barnowl]

Am I right in thinking that native shield bugs are friends not foes?

The (foreign) Southern Green shield bug larva is an enemy but haven't yet seen any this year.

[twinkletoes]

.....if these beetles have to go through so many incarnations to reach adulthood - do you think Dr. Who is almost there now too............?   Just a thought.
twinkletoes

[Barnowl]

Confirmation from RHS:

"The insect that you have found in your garden is the immature nymph of a native shield bug.  It is not possible to determine the exact species from nymphal stage. The nymphs of the non-native southern green shield bug have a more rounded shape and vary in colour as they develop but have a series of white, pale yellow or pinkish spots that distinguishes them from native species. Although most of our native shield bugs feed on plants none are considered plant pests as they do not damage garden plants. "

[star]

Thanks Barnowl, next time we see them they will look different. I guess they have permission to stay, I have never known any shield bug to cause serious damage.

[Barnowl]

The Southern Green Shield Bugs larvae do some damage, but they're not native, We had a lot two years ago, but conducted an aggressive squishing campaign and didn't seen any last year.

Southern Green shield bug larva...

[attachment=1][attachment=2]

[star]

Oh thanks Barnowl, I will keep an eye out for those then. Thankfully I have not seen any in my own garden up to now.