DESCRIPTION: Length up to 8mm.  A small Tachnid Fly with a somewhat large head, a grey, lightly striped thorax and a sub-ovoid orange abdomen.  Wings are usually held at right angles to the body and in a vertical plane. BEHAVIOUR: This smart fly is a parasitoid of several species of Shieldbug. DISTRIBUTION: Found mainly in Southern Britain. HABITAT: Woodland edges, waterside margins and open meadows. Can be seen on a variety of Umbellifers. PERIOD: June to August are the best times to come across this small fly.