DESCRIPTION: Body length up to 12mm. Scorpionflies are stunning insects and here we have a typical example with a yellow and black head, thorax and abdomen and generously spotted wings. The males of this species have thickened parallel hypovalves within the genital capsule. Microscopic examination is needed to determine the species of females. BEHAVIOUR: The adults flit and rest in and around thick herbage where they feed on dead or dying insects. Mating takes place usually at night time, this is a precarious time for the male as the female may kill him while trying to mate. The eggs are laid in the soil. DISTRIBUTION: Frequent throughout the most of Britain. HABITAT: Herb rich hedgerows and shady areas with lush vegetation. PERIOD: Best seen May to August.