Description

Wing length 7.5 to 11.25mm.A very distinctive fly with a grey striped thorax, brassy abdomen and long wings with some dark spots.

Habitat

Woodland and woodland edge. The adults like to sun themselves on a tree-trunk or convenient leaf. The larvae feed in sap runs on Oak or Ash.

Status and distribution

Fairly widespread through southern Britain, but less so further north and never abundant. Fairly widespread but uncommon in Nottinghamshire. Recorded twice at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

March to November.