DESCRIPTION: Wing length 8 - 11.5mm. This is the commonest species of Helophilus and is easily distinguished from its close relatives by the yellow striped thorax, the hind tibiae being yellow on two thirds of the basal and the black stripe going down the front of the face. Also known as the Dangling Swamp Lover or Sun Fly. BEHAVIOUR: Usually seen on waterside plants. Larvae filter food from drains & manure and are known as Rat-Tailed Maggots. DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout. HABITAT: Seen around various water bodies from lakes, ponds and sludges to small pools. PERIOD: May to October. |
