The red-headed cardinal beetle is found in woodland, along hedgerows, and in parks and gardens. It is native to Europe. Adults can be seen between May and July when they sunbath on flowers or tree trunks.
The red-headed cardinal beetle is approximately 20 mm long. It is bright red, with red wing cases, black legs and long, black, antennae. Males have comb-like antennae, females’ antennae are lightly serrated.
This species gets its name from its gorgeous red coloration which is reminiscent of the red biretta of a Catholic Cardinal.