© Susan HughesSpecies Focus - Swollen-thighed Beetle (Oedemera nobilis)
Hogweed is now in flower so it’s the perfect time to look out for insects which are attracted to its flowers. Perhaps the most distinctive species you’ll find visiting Hogweed at the moment is the Swollen-thighed Beetle (Oedemera nobilis).
This beetle is about 1cm long and metallic green. The males have incredibly thick femurs on their back legs, but the female’s legs aren’t modified like this.
© Susan Loose
© Scott Saunders
There are large areas of North Wales with no records of this species – particularly northern Anglesey. Please submit your records to the Cofnod ORS or the LERC Wales App.
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