DESCRIPTION: Length up to 7mm.  A smallish Soldier Beetle best recognised by the black elytra, red legs with darker base and the dark or red pronotum. The front margin of the pronotum is evenly rounded and covers the base of the head. The head is black with yellow in front of eyes. The third segment of the mid and hind tarsi are bilobed with the anterior claw on each leg toothed at base. BEHAVIOUR: The adults are also carnivorous, but are greatly attracted to flowers where they hunt other flower-visiting insects. DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout. HABITAT: prefers grassy meadows, hedgerows, grassy slopes and flowery woodland clearings. PERIOD: Best seen during the summer months, late May to early September.