Buttercup Cheilosia

Cheilosia albitarsis/ranunculi

Description

Wing length 7 - 9.5mm. These are two, all dark species with pale fore-tibia. They are very difficult to separate but can be by studying the apical black segments of the front tarsi. In C. ranunculi it tapers towards the claws whilst in C. albitarsis it is square.

Habitat

The two species both feed on Buttercup roots as larvae and the adults visit buttercup flowers for pollen and nectar. C. ranunculi is slightly earlier than C. albitarsis, but they can both be around at the same time.

Status and distribution

Both are common and widespread throughout most of Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to July.