| Scientific name | Leptoglossus occidentalis |
|---|---|
| Group | True Bugs |
| Size | 16–20 mm (up to about 0.79 in) |
| Colors | Brown |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere and Trees or shrubs |
| Most active | Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The western conifer seed bug is a medium-sized member of the true bugs group. Piercing, straw-like beaks and wings that overlap in an X on the back. Check for these three features:
- Leaf-shaped flat widenings on the hind legs
- Faint white zigzag across the middle of the wings
- Orange and black checkered abdomen visible in flight
About this bug
A long, brown bug with flattened, leaf-like expansions on its hind legs. It feeds on pine cones in summer and wanders indoors in fall, buzzing loudly when it flies.
You'll usually find western conifer seed bugs indoors and on trees and shrubs. They are most active in fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Western conifer seed bugs don't bite or sting; they may release a pine-like odor.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see western conifer seed bugs
Western Conifer Seed Bugs are most active in fall and winter. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere and trees or shrubs.
About true bugs
The western conifer seed bug is one of the true bugs. True bugs have piercing, straw-like mouthparts used to suck plant sap or, in a few species, blood. They develop through gradual metamorphosis: nymphs look like small, wingless adults and molt several times as they grow. Many release strong odors from scent glands when threatened.
Because nymphs look like adults, you'll often see mixed sizes of the same bug together, which is a good sign that a population is breeding nearby.
What to do about it
- Seal gaps around windows and siding before fall
- Pick bugs up with a tissue and release or dispose of them
- Repair screens and weatherstripping
Read the full guide: how to get rid of western conifer seed bugs.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Western Conifer Seed Bugs are larger, reaching 20 mm, while brown marmorated stink bugs top out around 17 mm.
Size: Wheel Bugs are larger, reaching 38 mm, while western conifer seed bugs top out around 20 mm.
Size: Western Conifer Seed Bugs are larger, reaching 20 mm, while squash bugs top out around 16 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a western conifer seed bug look like?
Leaf-shaped flat widenings on the hind legs. Adults measure 16–20 mm (up to about 0.79 in).
Does the western conifer seed bug bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Western conifer seed bugs don't bite or sting; they may release a pine-like odor.
Where do western conifer seed bugs live?
Western Conifer Seed Bugs live indoors and on trees and shrubs.
When are western conifer seed bugs most active?
Mostly in fall and winter.