Description

Over all length 3mm. A tiny, black fly with large, bright red eyes and iridescent wings. There are several very similar species. The one depicted is thought to be Rhamphomyia nigripennis.

Habitat

Woodland rides and edge, hedgerows and scrub. Often comes in numbers to umbelifers.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout Britain, common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to June.