Western Conifer Seed Bug

Coniferous forests and woodlands across North America; often seeks shelter in human dwellings during winter months.

Herbivorous. Primarily feeds on the developing seeds and cones of several species of conifers like pine, Douglas-fir, and hemlock using its piercing-sucking mouthparts.

They are known for 'overwintering' inside homes to escape cold temperatures. They exhibit hemimetabolous development (incomplete metamorphosis) and are capable of producing a strong, unpleasant odor when disturbed or crushed.

They do not bite humans or cause structural damage. While they are a nuisance pest in homes and can be a minor pest to seed orchards, they play a small role in the ecosystem as a food source for birds and mammals.