Species Insects & ArthropodsLarge Milkweed Bug

Large Milkweed Bug

Oncopeltus fasciatus

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus)

The Large Milkweed Bug is a boldly colored orange-and-black seed bug frequently seen in groups on milkweed seedpods, where it extracts seeds with its piercing-sucking beak. It is one of the most widely used insects in biology education and research due to its easy rearing and clear developmental stages. It migrates seasonally and does not overwinter in northern regions.

Habitat
Open fields and roadsides where milkweed grows
Diet
Adults and nymphs: milkweed seeds and other plant seeds
How common
Common

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