Broad Centurion

Chloromyia formosa

Description

Over all length 8 - 9mm. Both sexes have a shiny, metallic green thorax. The male has a bronze-coloured abdomen while, in the female, this is metallic blue.

Habitat

Often seen feeding on nectar from umbelliferous flowers, along hedgerows and woodland edges. The larvae feed on decaying organic matter.

Status and distribution

Found in most parts of lowland Britain, where it is common, but absent from much of Scotland. Common on the reserve.

Best time to see

May to August.