One rather ubiquitous insect that we are sure you have all seen in your gardens or parks is the Green Shield Bug, Palomena prasina. Its vivid green skin and shield-like form make it readily identifiable.
A Harmless Neighbor
Although they might look quite alarming the Green Shield Bug is usually harmless to both humans and plants. It feeds off plant sap and while technically a pest of some note, that is about all. Indeed, it is a friendly insect as this one preys on other insects such as aphids.
Life Cycle
Life cycle of Green Shield Bug Mature adult is mated and laid on plants. A week later, the eggs hatch into little version s of their parents called nymphs. In the process of evolving, these nymphs molt at various stages and throughout this process they exoskeleton several times. In the end, they mature and gain wings.
A Colorful Sight
The bright green color of the Green Shield Bug acts as a form camouflage, allowing it to blend in with vegetation. When the bugs go into hibernation for winter they turn a brownish color in autumn.
How To Bring Green Shield Bugs Into Garden
If you would like Green Shield Bugs visit your garden in greater numbers, plant a great number of various kinds of plants: trees, shrubs or herbaceous. Choose environmentally friendly alternative over chemicals, without hurting the Green Shield Bugs and other beneficial insects.
If you understand the role that these insects play within their natural ecosystem and take measures to encourage them back into your garden by planting flowers rich in pollen, then you too can help reinstate some of the balance to our local wildlife.