Quick Facts

Scientific name:  Pyrochroa serraticornis

Size:  Approx 20mm long

Distribution:  Found throughout the UK

Months seen:  May to July

Life Span:  Approximately 9 - 12 months

Habitat:  Normally found on flowers at the edges of woodlands

Food:  Mainly small invertebrates, some vegetation and fungi

Special features:  The name 'Cardinal' refers to a whole group of brightly coloured, flat bodied beetles.  Many Cardinal Beetles have irridescent orange-red wing casings.  This particular one has red wing casings and a red head and thorax.  There is a similar looking Cardinal Beetle with a black head (see photo).  The antennae are long, and the antannae of the males are feathery or comb-like.

Cardinal beetles are often confused with Lily Beetles.  Lily Beetles are a totally different species.  They have a much more rounded appearance, and the wing cases are covered in tiny dimples.  They are regarded by gardeners as a pest of lily plants.

Related Pages

• UK Safari Beetles Section
• UK Safari Invertebrates Section
• Identify other wildlife
• Free Newsletter