Description

Over all length 3 to 5mm. A family of seven species of small, similar looking, flies. The wings have pointed tips, from which the family gets its common name. The species shown is probably Lonchoptera lutea, which can be anything from yellow to brown in colour.

Habitat

Damp areas, hedgerows, ditch sides. Lonchoptera lutea has a preference for unshaded places, unlike most other species. The larvae develop in leaf litter.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to October.