Description

Body length 12 - 22mm. A black beetle with four orange patches on the wing cases. The front of the thorax has thick yellow hairs on its corners and the antennal club is orange. The hind tibiae are bent.

Habitat

A wide range of habitats are used. The adults seek out corpses and carrion to bury and lay their eggs in a chamber beneath. The larvae then feed on the carrion until they are large enough to pupate.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and widespread in England and Wales. Less common in Scotland and the West Country. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and recorded twice at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to October.