Description

Over all length 4.5mm. The thorax is grey and the abdomen pale orange. The wings have slight dark shading at the tips although this may sometimes be absent. There is another species P. andersonni which can only be separated by examination of the male genitalia. P. ustulata is the commoner species.

Habitat

Woodland, woodland edge and hedgerows. They need mature trees in order to breed. The larvae feed beneath the bark.

Status and distribution

Fairly common and widespread in England and Wales, but recorded less often in Scotland. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to October.