Description

Over all length 9.5 - 11.5mm. A black and yellow species with black bands around its femora, a yellow-tipped scutellum and a brown suffusion to the front half of its wings.

Habitat

Wet meadows and flowery places where it waits for its hosts. The females then land on the host and grab it as the pair fall to the ground. During the struggle they lay their egg on the host, which have been recorded as Red-tailed Bumblebee Bombus lapidarius, Mason Bees Osmia species and the Red Wasp Vespula rufa.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in England and Wales. Absent from most of Scotland. Uncommon on the reserve.

Best time to see

June to August.