Leaf-footed Bug

Found in woodlands, forest edges, and gardens throughout the southern United States and Mexico, often seen on trunks of trees like oak and hackberry.

Herbivorous; they use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on various plants, fruits, and seeds, particularly from trees in the Celtis genus.

Slow-moving insects that rely on camouflage. They are named for the distinctive leaf-like expansions on their hind tibiae. They are most active during the day and undergo incomplete metamorphosis with five nymphal stages.

They pose no physical danger to humans but can emit a foul odor if threatened. They are considered minor garden pests as heavy infestations can damage fruit or young shoots, but they are generally not a major agricultural threat.