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
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
Enter a town or village to see local records
MAP KEY:
Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020


