Leaf-footed bug

Scientific Name: Acanthocephala terminalis

Order & Family: Order Hemiptera, Family Coreidae

Size: 20 to 25 mm (0.8 to 1.0 inch)

Leaf-footed bug

Natural Habitat

Found in woodlands, forest edges, and gardens throughout North America, often seen on shrubs and trees.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous. They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on plant juices, seeds, and fruits from various host plants.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal and active fliers; they are characterized by leaf-like expansions on their hind tibiae. They go through incomplete metamorphosis and often overwinter as adults.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a minor agricultural pest as they can damage fruit and seeds, but they are not harmful to humans; they can produce a foul-smelling odor if threatened.

Identified on: 2/14/2026