Big-Eyed Bug

Geocoris spp.

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+4 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwestSouthwestWestPacific Northwest

Habitat Preferences

Gardensmeadowsfieldsrow cropsturf grasslow-growing plants

Taxonomic Group

Bug

Order

Hemiptera

Family

Geocoridae

Lifecycle

The Big-Eyed Bug undergoes incomplete metamorphosis, developing from egg to adult without a pupal stage. The life cycle consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Eggs are laid singly or in clusters on leaves and stems. The nymph stage has five instars, and the entire lifecycle from egg to adult takes approximately 30 days, with each instar lasting 4-6 days. Several generations can occur per year during warm seasons.

Overwintering Strategy

Big-Eyed Bugs typically overwinter as adults in sheltered locations such as under leaf litter, in crop debris, weedy areas, or under bark. Some species, like Geocoris bullatus, may overwinter as eggs. Mated females of some species will also overwinter.

Native Range

Geocoris grylloides is native to mainland Europe, while other species like Geocoris pallens and Geocoris punctipes are native to North America.

Attracted By

Flowering plantsinsectary plantspollennectarhoneydew

Companion Planting

Planting a variety of flowering species (insectary plants) that provide blossoms throughout the growing season will help to attract and support Big-Eyed Bug populations. These plants provide alternative food sources like pollen and nectar when prey is scarce, ensuring the bugs remain in the garden to control pests when they appear.