DESCRIPTION: Approximate body length 14 - 18mm in length. One of the Tiger Crane-Flies with a typical yellow and black thorax and a yellow abdomen with a black broken stripe running along the dorsal surface. The head sports a black 'ace of spades' mark. The pleura is shiny primrose with glossy black markings. The legs are dark orange with dark shading to the tip of the femora. The wings have a weak stigma. BEHAVIOUR: Adults take nectar and pollen from flowers especially various Umbellifers. The larvae are small and very similar to Tipula grubs. DISTRIBUTION: Primarily located in southern Britain but it is quite widespread further north. HABITAT: Hedgerows, meadows and grassy areas. PERIOD: April to August with a peak from end of May through June. |
