DESCRIPTION: Wing length 3.5 - 5mm. A dinky little creature with a narrow-wasp-like waist, clouded outer cross-vein and distinct yellow markings on segment 2 of the male's thorax and spots or bars on tergites 2 and 3 of the female. The hind femur is swollen, the thorax dark and the third antennal segment is at least twice as long as wide. BEHAVIOUR: A species usually found flying low and visiting low growing flowers. Larvae have been found in dung and rotting vegetation close to watery ditches. DISTRIBUTION: Common throughout and quite widespread. HABITAT: Hedgerows, woodland margins, gardens and vegetation around ponds and ditches. PERIOD: April to October.