Description

Body length 8 - 10mm. A difficult genus to identify to species as there are several very similar species. It is black with a greenish sheen and bristly tip to the abdomen.

Habitat

The beetle photographed is probably Philonthus laminatus and was found on emergent vegetation near the Large Gravel Pit at Netherfield Lagoons. They feed on small insects which they catch amongst the foliage.

Status and distribution

The South East, East Anglia and the Midlands are the species strongholds although it has been recorded from many lowland and coastal sites as well. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and with one record at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to September.