
Community identification
Leaf-footed bug
Acanthocephala terminalis
- Order & Family
- Order Hemiptera, Family Coreidae
- Size
- 20 to 25 mm (0.8 to 1.0 inch)
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.