Green Dock Beetles at Brockholes Wetlands

May 15, 2013: After a delayed start to the season due to cold weather, Green Dock Beetles (Gastrophysa viridula) are now emerging in good numbers. Dock leaves (Rumex sp.) have already become chewed and egg clusters, mating pairs, and pregnant females are well in evidence. The beetles' elytra are of a brilliant green colour but varying angles of incident light often shows them to be red, gold,, or yellow. Individuals are about 5-7mm long.