Cantharidae

Soldier Beetle - or leatherwing. One of the common names derives from the first patterns described as being like the red coats of the British soldiers. Colours vary with some combinations from yellow to red with black or brown wings or trims. they are predators that feed on aphids, caterpillars and the like. So quite beneficial to gardeners! Photographed in Co. Leitrim.

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal