Description

Over all length 7.5 to 12mm. A grey and black species, with orange on the sides of the abdomen and orange wing bases. The abdomen has a longitudinal black stripe of about 1/3 its width and there are small whitish patches towards the outer edges of the tergites.

Habitat

Woodland edge, hedgerows and areas with tall, lush herbage. Often on bramble patches. The larvae are internal parasites of Tiger moth caterpillars.

Status and distribution

Widespread over most of England and Wales but not in Scotland. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and regular at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to September.