38 Swollen-thighed Beetle

Oedemera nobilis

Characteristics

Length: 0.31–0.39 in (8–10 mm).

Flight season: April–September.

Nectar sources: Many flowers.

Habitat: Meadows, scrub, gardens.

The flowerheads of oxeye daisies, cornflowers, roses, cow parsley, and brambles are particular favourites of this bright beetle as it feeds on pollen. Readily attracted to gardens by careful planting, it is a productive pollinator. In bright sunlight, the swollen-thighed beetle positively glistens. Its head, thorax, and long, narrow abdomen are metallic green, the wing covers not quite meeting in the middle. Its antennae are noticeably long. The swollen thighs (femora) of the male’s hind legs are very obvious, but these are absent in females.

Also known as the thick-legged flower beetle or false oil beetle, this species is common in southern England and also lives in much of Europe and parts of North Africa. Its larvae develop on the dry stems of plants such as thistles, but it is not known whether they overwinter as larvae or pupae. Adults emerge in spring, find mates, and breed.