Description

Over all length 15mm. The male has a bright metallic green thorax and bronze abdomen, the female's abdomen begins red on the first few segments and then is a metallic blue. There are two white spots on the frons, just above the antennae.

Habitat

Woodland edge, hedgerows and open, sunlit spots. The adults bask on low vegetation, the larvae feed on rotting organic matter such as dung or compost.

Status and distribution

Fairly common but tending to be local across most of England and Wales but less common in Scotland. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

August to November.