DESCRIPTION: Wing length 7 - 12mm. A variable beast that can cause confusion but best recognised by the distinct grey spots and bars on the thoracic dorsum. The abdomen is covered in yellow hairs and is black and yellow with Spring specimens duller and darker. BEHAVIOUR: Adults are particularly fond of Umbellifer flowers. The larva live in rotten wood and water filled holes in trees where they feed on bacteria. DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout. HABITAT: Seen generally in and around wooded areas. PERIOD: May to October. |
