Small Milkweed Bug

Fields, meadows, and gardens, particularly near milkweed plants across North America.

Primarily feeds on milkweed seeds and nectar, but can be opportunistic, sometimes eating other insects or their eggs.

They are active during the day and undergo simple metamorphosis. Adults overwinter in leaf litter and emerge in the spring to mate/lay eggs on milkweed plants.

They pose no significant risk to humans or pets. They are beneficial for controlling monarch competitors and are part of the ecosystem, but their bright colors warn predators of their foul taste (aposematism).