Description

Wing length 7 - 12mm. A fairly robust species, it is mostly dark with a yellow face, yellow sides to the thorax with a greyish 'batman' like motif on top, and the abdomen has broken yellow bands on each segment. The body is covered with golden yellow hairs.

Habitat

Can turn up in many different habitats seeking out flowers. The larvae develop in rot-holes on trees or decaying leaves collected in water.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread throughout Britain. One of the commoner species seen on the reserve.

Best time to see

May to October.