Brown-winged Millipede-killer

Pelidnoptera fuscipennis

Description

Over all length 6 - 8mm. A reddish-brown fly with red eyes and orange legs. The wings are slightly tinted and can look quite dark when held one upon the other across its back. The thorax has some darker stripes and the antennae are orange.

Habitat

Wooded areas and shady parts of hedgerows. The larvae of this species attack millipedes. Willow Walk is a good place to search.

Status and distribution

Commonest in the southern half of Britain.

Best time to see

May to August.