Identification
Dull reddish-brown with faint (or absent) white zigzag stripe across midpoint of upper surface; antennae may be almost as long as body. Outer hind tibial dilation* nearly equal in length to inner dilation. Generally more colorful than other spp. of Leptoglossus.
*the "leaf" on the lower hind leg
Range
Native to western North America; it has been expanding its range eastward, and is now commonly found throughout the northeastern states and southern Ontario. Has reached as far NE as southern New Brunswick (TT). See also
BugGuide data map.
Habitat
Coniferous trees; may wander into homes and other buildings at the onset of cold weather in the fall in search of a protected site to spend the winter.
Season
Nymphs and adults found on coniferous trees in spring and summer; adults often seen around homes in fall.
Food
Nymphs and adults use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on sap from green cones, twigs, seed pulp, and sometimes needles of several species of pine, plus hemlock, spruce, and Douglas-fir.
Life Cycle
One generation per year.
In spring these bugs move out of doors to coniferous trees nearby. The bugs feed on the developing seeds and early flowers of different species of conifers. Females are reported to lay rows of eggs on needles of the host trees, which hatch in about 10 days. Young nymphs then begin to feed on tender cone scales and sometimes the needles. The nymphs are orange and brown, becoming reddish-brown to brown as they develop. Nymphs pass through five stages and reach adulthood by late August. Adults feed on ripening seed until they seek overwintering quarters. (
Cornell U., New York)
Remarks
These bugs do not bite, sting, feed, carry diseases or otherwise cause harm to people, pets, the house or its contents. They cannot reproduce inside the house, as egg laying and development are restricted to the host plants during the summer months. (
Iowa State U.)
They will, however, give off a pungent odor if you handle them, which is part of the insect's defensive strategy. They also may make a buzzing sound when flying.
See Also
Leptoglossus corculus is similar but with the outer hind tibial dilation distinctly longer than the inner one. There is also a genital distinction, should you have a specimen on hand to examine (see Great Lakes key, below).
Internet References
pinned adult image and link to further info (Insects of Cedar Creek, U. of Minnesota)
Cornell Cooperative Extension description and overview of biology and control (Cornell U., New York)
Iowa State University description and overview of biology and control
The Great Lakes Entomologist with a key to species of
Leptoglossus 
