Description

Over all length 3 to 5mm. A small weevil with metallic red elytra with a dark line between them and a bronze/purple head and thorax.

Habitat

Most commonly found on Hawthorn but also on several other species including Blackthorn and Apple. The adult beetles feed on the developing leaf and blossom buds while the larvae feed on the fruit, the female laying an egg beneath the skin of the developing fruit and chewing partly through the fruit stem.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in southern Britain but less so in the West Country and Wales.

Best time to see

April to June.