By Carrie Bowman
A first for West Dunbartonshire, recorded in a garden close to Havoc this week – this striking-looking Cinnamon Bug (Corizus hyoscyami). It is harmless to humans and not considered a garden pest. Previously only found in sandy coastal habitats, it has been able to extend its range northwards and inland, possibly due to hotter, drier summers. It is hairy and has heavily veined forewing (hemelytra) membranes (typical for Rhopalidae). Valeman o’ pairts Paul Murdoch said: “Great find! They call it a firebug in France. Related to shield-bugs and aphids. The French markings are slightly different.”