Description

Body length 2 to 5mm. A small fly with a black thorax and dark grey abdomen and large red eyes.

Habitat

Grasslands with plenty of flowers for the adults to get nectar from, especially Ox-eye Daisies and Angelica. The larvae are endoparasites of ground bugs.

Status and distribution

Widespread but local in England. Getting less common towards the north and west. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire but common at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June to August.