Marsh Splay

Symplecta stictica

Description

Over all length 10mm. A medium sized slightly yellowish cranefly. The head has a dark median stripe, as does the thorax, where it is flanked by two paler lines. There is some spotting on the wings and vein A2 (on the hind part of the wing nearest the body) is not straight but has a double bend in it.

Habitat

Wet, marshy places, often salt marshes. The larva is mainly aquatic.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout England and Wales but less common in Scotland.

Best time to see

April to November.