Ruud Streefkerk

The Green Shield Bug is also called the green stink bug. It owes the name stink bug to the foul-smelling substance secreted for defense. The bug is green, only the tips of the wings are brown. Just before hibernation however, the bug turns completely brown, to turn green again in the spring. Males and females locate each other by making vibrations with their body. The vibration is passed on by the plant on which the bug sits, so that other bugs know that a partner is being sought. After mating, the vivid green eggs are deposited on a leaf, from which baby-bugs crawl that already have two antennae and six legs, although the body shape is much more convex. The nymph casts its skin several times and acquires more and more characteristics of the adult animals. The bug feeds on plant juices that are sucked up with the sting-muzzle. As a result, damage is done to crops, which get a typical 'bug smell'. The Hazel is an important food plant. Green shield bugs are common in places where their food plants grow.