Hawthorn Jewel Beetle (Agrilus sinuatus)

Agrilus is a genus of beetles belonging to the family Buprestidae (Jewl Beetles). Species in this family are usually brightly coloured and always have some iridescence, created by helical nanostructures.

Although the family consists of approx. 1500 species, just 17 are native to the UK, all of which are found locally in the warmer south, on or around Hawthorn, mostly between June and September.

Measured between 5mm and 10mm, adults are a shiny metallic reddish purple, with large black eyes, although colours can vary as seen above.

Despite their obvious sheen, they are easily disturbed and can thus be difficult to find.

The larvae feed on dead or dying Hawthorn, producing a snaky, zig-zag pattern, while emerging adults leave characteristic d-shaped holes.