Day 366: Yes, you get a bonus post! 2016 was a Leap Year, and I was fortunate that Leptoglossus didn't take that literally. As it is described in "Insects of the Pacific Northwest," it is a common species but rarely seen because it spends its life in the forest canopy. I suspect it was dislodged by yesterday's wind, although why it took refuge on the handle of my watering can is anyone's guess.
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Coreidae (squash bugs) is the flattened segment of the hind leg, visible in this photo. It may serve as additional camouflage, breaking the linear profile of the leg into something more leaf-like and hard to see. Leptoglossus has an additional defense mechanism if its disguise fails. It carries scent glands which emit a foul odor when the insect is disturbed.
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