Soldier Beetle
Cantharis figurata
Description
Over all length 6.5 - 8.5mm. A predominantly orange/brown species with figure-like markings on its pronotum.
Habitat
Wetlands and damp woodlands where the adults feed on insects on the foliage and the larvae feed on invertebrates in the soil.
Status and distribution
It is widespread over most of Britain in suitable habitat. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and regular at Netherfield Lagoons.
Best time to see
May to July.