Description

Over all length 5 to 6mm. When seen from above, a dull brown fly. From the side the abdomen can be seen to have whitish bands between the tergites, and the fore-legs are very swollen with a strong, curved appendage (very mantis-like).

Habitat

Marshy habitats and beside ponds and streams. The adults prey on other insects and the larvae live in the mud feeding on small invertebrates.

Status and distribution

Thinly spread over most of Britain. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

September to October.