
There were lots of these out in the fields. It is also called the ‘bloodsucker’ because of its distinct appearance. Note the dark tips on the wing cases. They feed on aphids and other insects, also pollen and nectar, and can be quite beneficial when they pay a visit to your garden. The adults live for the summer only, which they spend feeding and mating.
Of note, there are around 40 species of soldier beetle in the UK, and why are they called soldier beetles, you may wonder? Because many of them display red and black markings resembling a soldier’s uniform.
Feel free to click to enlarge and click again to get even closer.
July 2019, local field margin, South Staffordshire, England. Ā© Pete Hillman.
Now this is a fine looking Beetle. Not a species I have encountered down here. Probably don’t come this far south for their holidays. š
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They are quite a showy beetle, and they appear to have had a good year here. I will try and send some down your way š
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That is a pretty soldier, Pete š
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Thank you š
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That’s one handsome beetle who looks hot even in cold weather. I’ve only been able to get one photograph of soldier beetles but must warn you…‘X’ rated. š
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Oh yes I have seen plently of these x-rated beetles out in the fields of late. They only have one season to live so you can’t blame them š
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As they say, make hay while you can. š
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Striking looking insect. Lovely shot Pete!
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Thank you Belinda š
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Excellent macro shot Pete.
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Thank you David š
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Must look out for these. Great picture, nice colours.
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They do stand out, and they usually or found on umbellifers. Thank you!
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Fantastic picture! I like these beetles. They always remind me of my childhood, when there were plenty of them. Nowadays I have to look out for them. It is funny, at the moment we seem to see the same insects. I saw these beetles last week together with the Marbled white. I am curious what comes next š
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Thank you! I am curious as to what comes next, too š
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š
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This is really stunning when enlarged!
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Thank you, Dwight!
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