Burdock Gall Fly

Tephritis bardanae

Description

Over all length 5mm. This species has a pale brown body and dark patterning on its wings.

Habitat

Hedgerows and woodland edge. The larvae develop in the flower-heads of Burdock  Arctium species. The adults can be seen on the leaves of Burdock, waving their wings in display to one another.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and mostly restricted to the south of Britain. Regularly encountered at the reserve.

Best time to see

April to August.