Welted Thistle Fly

Tephritis hyoscyami

Description

Over all length 5mm. When seen from above, with its wings closed over its back, the three large spots on each wing form a domino pattern as the inner markings overlay each other, there are also several other much less significant marks.

Habitat

Found on Carduus and Cirsium thistles in meadows and brown field sites.

Status and distribution

Thinly distributed through southern England. Uncommon in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to August.