The green shieldbug is a broad, flattened insect common throughout Europe, including the British Isles, and is found in a large variety of habitats. The other species of green shieldbug found in the UK is the southern green shield bug which is a recent arrival having become established in the London area since 2003. It is larger and, unlike the common green shieldbug, lacks a dark area at the rear end of its body.