Description

Wing length 6 - 7mm. This is a medium sized, dark species with huge red eyes, the wings are tinted dark and, when held along the back, taper to a point. The abdomen is black and the thorax glossed purple .

Habitat

The adults like umbellifers, especially close to trees, and the larvae develop in organically rich mud beside ponds or streams within wooded areas.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread thoughout Britain, but keeping to lowland areas. Fairly common on the reserve.

Best time to see

June to October.