DESCRIPTION: Approximate body length 18 - 20mm in length. A species of fly in the family Limoniidae that is best identified by the genmeral dark 'jizz; the brown striped abdomen and the banded legs. The most noteable deature however are the wonderfully patterned brown wings were a series crosslines, dark patches and circular marks make for a very pleasing sight. BEHAVIOUR: Fond of basking in thick woodland vegetation and easily disturbed. Can be found in quite small but dense colonies. The larvae are found in dead wood. DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout England and Wales but becoming scarce towards the North and Scotland. HABITAT: Seems to have a preference for damp woodland. PERIOD: May to June. |
