Western conifer seed bug vs Eastern leaf-footed bug
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a western conifer seed bug from an eastern leaf-footed bug, and whether either one bites or stings.
Western conifer seed bug
Leptoglossus occidentalis
Eastern leaf-footed bug
Leptoglossus phyllopus
≠The key differences
L. phyllopus is similar in shape but has a straight pale band across the wings (not a zigzag) and feeds on broadleaf plants, fruits and vegetables rather than conifer cones; it occurs in the southern US.
L. occidentalis is associated with conifers and has a thin white zigzag line across the wings; L. phyllopus has a straighter, bolder cream band and is associated with fruiting plants.
⚖︎Side by side
| Western conifer seed bug | Eastern leaf-footed bug | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Smelly secretion | Non-toxic |
| Size | 16-20 mm body length | 18-21 mm body length |
| Colours | Brown, Reddish-brown, Cream, White | Brown, Tan, Reddish orange (nymphs) |
| Family | Coreidae | Coreidae |
| Habitat | Conifer forests, plantations, parks and gardens with pine, spruce, fir or cedar; buildings and houses where adults overwinter | Gardens, orchards, crop fields, hedgerows, and wooded edges; often on host plants and fruiting trees/shrubs |
| Range | Native to western North America; introduced and now widespread in Europe, parts of eastern North America, and East Asia | Southern and eastern United States (most common in the Southeast), west to the Southwest and south into Mexico and Central America |
| Active | Active in spring through autumn for feeding and reproduction; adults seek shelter and are visible indoors in autumn and winter | Spring through fall; adults overwinter and are active on warm days |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot a western conifer seed bug
- 16-20 mm elongated body with a distinct white or cream zigzag band across the forewings
- Leaf-like widened hind tibiae (appears as a 'leaf-foot' on the rear legs)
- Brown to reddish-brown overall color with lighter markings on the pronotum and wing edges
- When disturbed adults may emit a strong, unpleasant odor
🔍How to spot an eastern leaf-footed bug
- Leaf-like expansion on the hind tibia (flattened 'leaf' on the hind leg) typical of many coreids
- Elongated body about 18-21 mm long with a straight cream band across the wings and an X-shaped wing pattern when closed
- Adults dark brown; early-stage nymphs reddish or orange
- Found on fruiting plants and seeds, often on tomatoes, peppers and fruit trees
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a western conifer seed bug and an eastern leaf-footed bug?
L. phyllopus is similar in shape but has a straight pale band across the wings (not a zigzag) and feeds on broadleaf plants, fruits and vegetables rather than conifer cones; it occurs in the southern US. L. occidentalis is associated with conifers and has a thin white zigzag line across the wings; L. phyllopus has a straighter, bolder cream band and is associated with fruiting plants.
Is a western conifer seed bug or an eastern leaf-footed bug more dangerous?
Western conifer seed bug: Smelly secretion. Eastern leaf-footed bug: Non-toxic. They do not seek to bite people and are not venomous. Not venomous and not a disease vector.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.