Lygaeus kalmii

This is a small milkweed bug. They feed primarily on nectar and milkweed seeds, but will eat other insects when available. Adults overwinter and then begin reproducing in April. As their name suggests, adults lay their eggs on milkweed.

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Lygaeidae
Species: Lygaeus kalmii

Photograph: © 2018 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 15 July 2018
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45o20'53" N 111o10'31" W)