Nymphs of the Woundwort Shield Bug.

Unlike the last bug, which was carved from sandstone by an ancient and now forgotten civilisation, these bugs are actually manufactured by a jeweller in Sheffield. They are made of platinum with red  copper insets and tiny gemstones around the edges and they are exquisitely beautiful. (Quite expensive too)

Well that is what I have always believed. New evidence has emerged that seems to suggest that these bugs are capable of reproducing themselves, with no master craftsmen involved.

This is a Woundwort Shield Bug. (They are quite small and so only get to occupy the middle bit of the picture)

You might remember that back in June they were getting up to hanky panky in the bushes. So much so that I was having to cover Fizz’s eyes when we went for walks.

I had never seen anything like it. So what was the result of all of this monkey business?

Try and guess what these are.

I have never seen these little animals before but there are certain clues as to what they might be. The plant that they are on is Woundwort. They are following a Woundwort Shield Bug around like little Ducklings and they are quacking.

I am pretty certain that these are the love children of the beautiful Woundwort Shield Bug otherwise known as late instar nymphs of Eysacoris venustissimus. (Actually I know that is the case because I am a naturalist)

Another one for the collection then. 🙂

Insects love their children too, you know.