Sloe Bug

Sloe bug, Dolycoris baccarum.  Adult.  Orchid Bank, High Elms Country Park, 30 July 2011.

Another true bug, also a shield bug. This sloe bug is sometimes called the hairy bug; it is the only one of our shield bugs to be hairy. Even the adult has a fringe of hairs, hard to see without a lens.

The hairs are much more noticeable in the earlier stages of its growth. Below are two earlier instars.

Despite the name, these bugs don't feed on Sloe bushes (aka Blackthorns). I read on-line: "It really loves berries, especially Honeysuckle and Raspberries. It walks all over them, leaving behind an awful stinking substance. This makes all berries it walked over inedible."  Shame - it looks rather smart!

Sloe bug, Dolycoris baccarum.  Late instar nymph.  Orchid Bank, High Elms Country Park, 30 July 2011.

Late instar nymph of the sloe bug, Dolycoris baccarum.  Hayes Common, 24 June 2011.