Description

Over all length 8.5 - 12mm. A yellow and black fly with a 'thick' head. It has quite long antennae that are fused at the base.

Habitat

Grasslands and woodland edge where thistles, ragwort and other bee-friendly plants are numerous. The larvae are endoparasites of bees. Red-tailed Bumblebees Bombus lapidarius are known to be a victim.

Status and distribution

A common and well distributed fly but with a very disjointed distribution in Scotland. Common on the reserve.

Best time to see

June to September.