Invertebrates
Firebug
Pyrrhocoris apterus
At the base of an old lime tree in a German park, hundreds of firebugs crowd together in the sun, a carpet of red and black on the warm bark.
Overview
The firebug, Pyrrhocoris apterus, is a Not Evaluated bug of sunny gardens, parks, and woodland edges across southern and central Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Its warning colours, group-living, and long matings make it one of the most conspicuous and best-known bugs in Europe.
A bug that advertises itself
The firebug’s bold red and black colours tell birds and other predators that it tastes bad, a message that protects the large groups in which it lives.
Status
Not Evaluated globally, though common in southern and central Europe.
Firebug: common questions
Why is the firebug red and black?
Its vivid red and black colours are a warning that advertises a bad taste to predators.
Why are firebugs found joined together?
Pairs often remain joined back to back for hours or even days while mating, and are a common sight in spring and summer.
Can the firebug fly?
Many individuals have short wings and cannot fly, which is how the species got the name apterus, meaning wingless.
Where is the firebug found?
It lives in sunny gardens, parks, and woodland edges across southern and central Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia.