Bug id - Ask Extension
This beauty was on my cucumber. Hoping it is beneficial.
Knowledgebase
Bug id #878878
Asked July 26, 2024, 11:30 AM EDT
This beauty was on my cucumber. Hoping it is beneficial.
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Thank you for your question and the terrific photo. This is a type of leaf-footed bug. Leaf-footed bugs are related to stink bugs and give off unpleasant smells when handled, but they are not dangerous in any way to humans or pets. They can, however, damage certain fruits and vegetables in a home garden, such as squash and tomatoes. If you are finding several around your cucumbers or other vegetable plants, then you may want to remove them as you see them. You can do this by picking them off affected plants and dropping them into a container of soapy water.
Here are two links with more information about leaf-footed bugs in the garden, including more details on their feeding habits.
https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/4/leaffooted-lovers-leptoglossus-spp
https://durhammastergardeners.com/2015/06/25/whats-that-bug-leaf-footed-bugs-in-the-garden/
Thanks for keeping an eye on the insects around your garden and especially for considering which ones might be beneficial!
Christa
Here are two links with more information about leaf-footed bugs in the garden, including more details on their feeding habits.
https://bugoftheweek.com/blog/2019/11/4/leaffooted-lovers-leptoglossus-spp
https://durhammastergardeners.com/2015/06/25/whats-that-bug-leaf-footed-bugs-in-the-garden/
Thanks for keeping an eye on the insects around your garden and especially for considering which ones might be beneficial!
Christa
What a great common name, but bummer that this beauty wants to mess with my meager garden. Thanks.