Two-Spotted Stink Bug Identification Guide

Key Features

• Shield-shaped body typical of stink bugs, about 8-12mm long
• Bold black and orange-to-red pattern, though the exact amount of color varies between individuals
• Two rounded black spots are often visible on the back, giving rise to the common name, set against an orange-red background
• Pronotum (shoulder region) is angular with pointed "shoulder" projections
• Piercing-sucking mouthpart forms a beak tucked under the head
• Triangular scutellum (the plate between the wing bases) is typically marked with a contrasting color

Where and When to Look

• Frequently found on potato, nightshade, and other solanaceous plants, where it hunts for prey among the foliage
• Active from late spring through summer in gardens, farm fields, and areas with potato or related crops
• Both nymphs and adults can be seen on leaves, often near colonies of leaf beetles they are hunting
• More often spotted moving actively across foliage than sitting still, since it is an active predator rather than a plant feeder

Similar-Looking Bugs

• Spined soldier bugs share the predatory stink bug lifestyle and a shield shape, but have more pointed pronotal spines and a duller brown-mottled pattern rather than bold black-and-orange spots
• Harlequin bugs have a similarly bold black-and-orange/red pattern but the markings form intricate geometric shapes rather than two simple rounded spots, and harlequin bugs feed on plants rather than hunting prey
• Common green or brown stink bugs lack the vivid contrasting color pattern and are typically solid green or brown

Quick ID Checklist

• Shield-shaped body with bold black and orange-red coloring
• Two prominent rounded black spots on the back
• Pointed, angular pronotum "shoulders"
• Found on potato or nightshade-family plants
• Active, prowling movement across foliage rather than staying still