Description

Over all length 5 to 6mm. A smallish, all black tachinid that is very bristly.

Habitat

Hedgerows, woodland edge and meadows where Tortoise Beetle larvae can be found. The adults feed on nectar from flowers such as Hogweed, while the larvae feed inside the larva of Cassida species.

Status and distribution

Fairly well recorded across most of England and Wales but not in Scotland. There are no other records for Nottinghamshire. Recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.