Description

Over all length 10 - 18mm. A red beetle with a red head and black antennae and legs. There is sometimes a coppery pubescence to the elytra (wing cases), which is hard to capture in a photograph.

Habitat

Woodland and woodland edge. The adults prey on other insects and the larvae feed on invertebrates under loose bark on dead trees.

Status and distribution

Can be locally common in the south-east, East Anglia, the Midlands and east Wales. Less common in the south west and north of England. Rare in Scotland. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and common at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.