Key information
Lacewings usually have bright green bodies, prominent, golden, metallic eyes and green veins on delicate, transparent wings. However some species are browner in colour.
There are 18 species of lacewing in the UK, although they are less common in Scotland. Both the adults and larvae are carnivorous and often feast on aphids. The larvae suck the aphids’ juices and may even use the drained bodies to hide under.
Female lacewings lay each egg on a thread of mucus that hardens in the air, leaving the egg on a slender stalk. Generally some adults hibernate, although many perish.
Lacewing larvae can be purchased via mail order as biological pest control for your garden.
What they eat:
Adults and larvae eat aphids and other small insect pests. Adults may also drink nectar.
Measurements:
- Length:
- Up to 20mm
- Wingspan:
- Up to 40mm
