Swollen-thighed Beetle

Oedemera nobilis

Description

Over all length 8 - 11mm. The main colouration is metallic green and both sexes have elytra (wing cases) that taper so that a gap grows between them towards their tips. The males are told by their very swollen thighs.

Habitat

Grasslands and field edges where the adults feed on pollen from the flowers and the larvae feed within plant stems.

Status and distribution

Common and fairly widespread in the south of Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to August.