Parent bug with offspring (Elasmucha grisea ♀)

Model on a scale of 20:1
The model is firmly mounted on a birch leaf.

Dimensions approx. : 110 cm long, 70 cm wide, 20 cm high

Distribution and habitat

The parent bug occures abundantly and is widespread throughout Europe. It lives on birch and alder trees and sucks on flowers of the birch or on its leaves.

Lifestyle and special aspects

The parent bug is so named because the females remain with their offspring for several weeks after their hatch. This is relatively rare behaviour in the insect world. The mother stays with the larvae and defends them using several techniques. A very efficient defense is the chemical attack. She can excrete a noxious liquid that quickly penetrates the sturdy armor of the attacker and paralyses it. The adults are approximately 6-9 mm long.