Heather Beetle

Heather Beetle - Lochmaea suturalis

Description

4.3 to 6 mm. Brown to dark ochre-coloured

Similar Species

Lochmaea caprea is similar but less shiny than L. suturalis.

Identification difficulty

The record must include a note to state whether the beetle was found on Heather.

Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the record must include a note to state whether the beetle was found on Heather.

Habitat

Anywhere with heathers or heaths plus a damp understory of moss or leaves for egg-laying and pupation.

When to see it

Overwinters as an adult and can be found in most months of the year.

UK Status

Widespread in areas of Britain where Heather is present.

VC55 Status

Quite local in Leicestershire and Rutland due to the limited range of its foodplants in our area.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records