Description

Over all length 8 to 12 mm. A dark fly with metallic green to bronze on the abdomen and scutellum. The thorax has some whitish stripes running from the front and rapidly petering out before half-way back. The wings have darkened basal veins. The face protrudes slightly.

Habitat

Damp habitats are preferred from woodland edge to mires, where the males contest the best sunlit perches on leaves. The larvae are thought to be parasitic in earthworms.

Status and distribution

Widespread and fairly common throughout Britain, and slightly commoner in Wales. Infrequent in Nottinghamshire but regular at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to September.