Description

Over all length 15 to 17mm. A large, colourful species. The face and antennae are yellow while the rest of the head and thorax are black. The abdomen is red/brown with a yellow ovipositer. the legs have red femora with yellow tibia and tarsi.

Habitat

Hedgerows and woodland edge. The adults search for moth caterpillars to use as hosts for their larvae.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and widespread through out most of Britain. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

August to October.