Ocirrhoe unimaculata – Andrew Allen (CC BY-NC 4.0)
Oncocoris apicalis – Bill & Mark Bell (CCBYNCSA).jpeg
Mictis profana – (CC-BY-NC) Dave Dave
Habitat at a Glance
See Habitat Guide for more detail
Shelter: Shrubs and foliage
Diet: Sap from plants or other insects
Water: Shallow dish or frog ponds
ReWild Benefit: Pollinator, weed and pest control
Habitat Guide - Shelter
Natural Shelter
Shield bugs are a diverse group of insects, adapted to different plant species and habitats. Some species are adaptable creatures and busily investigate plants around the garden in search of food or shelter. Gardens planted with eucalypts, banksia, wattles, flowering annuals, clumping grasses, and small shrubs can provide suitable habitat for shield bugs.
Novel Shelter
A template of a bug hotel is illustrated below. Things to consider:
Place several bug hotels throughout the garden to avoid disease spread.
Have several smaller hotels throughout the garden to avoid parasite and predator burden.
Position in a north and east position sheltered with dappled shade.
Keep dry and ensure protection from the rain.
Avoid using insecticides around the garden.
Habitat Guide - Food and Water
Providing natural sources of food
There are many species of shield bugs found in Perth including the Brown Stink Bug (Oncocoris apicalis) and the Crusader Bug (Mictisprofana). Shield bugs have varied diets (other insects, nectar, or plant sap) depending on the species. Different plants in the garden can attract an array of shield bug species.
Providing sources of water
Shield bugs are known to visit bird baths and ponds for a source of water. Insects often fall into water sources and can drown. A partially submerged rock or stick can provide a safe avenue for smaller creatures to leave the water safely.
ReWild Benefits
Shield bugs are diverse and provide various ecological roles to the garden including pollinations, weed control, and pest control. If you see one in your backyard, you can record your sighting on the Atlas of Living Australia and help scientists monitor there population and distribution.
