Description

Over all length 8 - 10mm. Small flies with grey thorax and abdomen and orange frons. The wings are patterned with soft-edged black spots, which are held over the back of the insect. They can often be seen upside down on leaves, flicking their wings in display.

Habitat

Emergent vegetation along ditches or beside ponds.

Status and distribution

Tends towards the south and east of England. Less common in Wales and even less common in Scotland. Common on the reserve, close to water.

Best time to see

May to July.