Description

Wing-length 7.5 to 9.5mm. Very similar to R. campestris, but with no black along the edges of the abdomen, a paler, blue/grey thorax and slightly shorter rostrum or snout.

Habitat

Mainly a woodland species, but becoming commoner in less wooded habitats. Possibly connected to the increase in the Roe Deer and Muntjac populations as they prefer to breed in old dry deer dung where other dung feeding invertebrates are not so prevalent, although they also use Badger and cow dung.

Status and distribution

Mostly confined to southern Britain, with fewer reports from East Anglia and the West Country. Once a rare species in Britain it has rapidly spread northwards, possibly aided by climate change. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and uncommon at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to October.