Shield-backed bug

Thanks, oxyjack, for the information - it's true, you do learn something new everyday. :) I didn't know that about the triangle on the back, but that sure helps with further ID-ing of these bugs. And it looks like you're right, it is the Scutelleridae family. :) Thanks for your help.

He Scutelleridae family is actually pretty small compared to the other family that is sometimes referred to as "shield bugs", the Pentatomidae. The main difference between the two families is in the size of the scutellum. In the Pentatomids, you can see the wings because the scutellum is a triangle on the back. In the scutellerids, the scutellum is expanded over the entire back and the wings are hidden beneath. They slide out from the sides when they need to fly. Here is a California specimen for comparison: http://www.bugpeople.org/taxa/Heteropter...

Possible. I think we have a similar climate where I am to California and that part of America. Not sure about the ID, though - not that you're wrong, but I can't find anything specific that looks like this bug. Problem is, the shield/stink bug 'family' is so huge, it's like looking for a needle in a haystack! :) Thanks for the suggestion, though.

We have a very similar-looking species in California. I wonder if they were introduced from Europe?