Black Soldier Beetle

Cantharis nigra

Description

Over all length 5 - 7.5mm. This species has black elytra and the pronotum is black but may have varying amounts of red along the sides. The legs are uniformly brown.

Habitat

This is a species of wet and marshy areas with dense vegetation. The adults feed on other insects and the larvae on invertebrates in the soil.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and widespread in England and Wales, less common in Scotland. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.