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Bug identification #926925

Asked March 27, 2026, 4:56 PM EDT

I have included pictures of a bug I found on my shoe yesterday. Our phone AI seems to think it is a bed bug, but we are unsure the accuracy of this especially with it likely being in an early stage of its life cycle. We have some dense evergreen trees next to our driveway that are a popular place for birds to nest. I am wondering if it could be a swallow bug. Can you please help me identify the bug in the included pictures?

Mesa County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Robert,

That is not a bed bug or a swallow bug, thankfully. It is a giant conifer aphid (Cineara spp.). They are in the same order as bed bugs (Hemiptera), hence why your phone's AI mistook them for a bed bug. There are 2 ways I can tell:

1. Aphids have 2 horn like structures protruding from the back of their abdomen known as cornicles, bed bugs do not have these structures. 

2. Bed bugs and swallow bugs are distinctly reddish brown, this insect's coloration is too light. 

Giant conifer aphids are common on evergreens, and can be so numerous that they rain down, littering nearby surfaces. But they are seldom worth managing. Even at seemingly high populations, they are well controlled by their natural enemies. 

Let me know if you have further questions!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied March 30, 2026, 2:09 PM EDT
Praise God! As you might imagine, we were a bit worried by the possibility of bed bugs. 
Thank you so much for clarifying this!

Best regards,
Robert

On Mon, Mar 30, 2026 at 12:09 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied March 30, 2026, 2:20 PM EDT

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