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TranslateCheilosia variabilis
Cheilosia variabilis (Panzer, 1798) 7.75mm-10.25mm
Belonging to the CHEILOSIINI tribe.
A large and robust black species, an elongated body with long wings. On close inspection observe upstanding hairs on the sides of the face below the “nose”.
Flight season… April to September
Occurs…Common throughout mainland Britain and Ireland.
Habitat…. Prefers damp woodlands, stream-sides and vegetation areas beside pathways and roads. Also likes to bask on sunny leaves often on low-growing vegetation. Males patrol territories from sunlit perches, but do not hover with any regularity.
The larvae feed on the roots and stems of Common Figwort. The adults visit flowers of the larval foodplants.
Images of male below
Read MoreBelonging to the CHEILOSIINI tribe.
A large and robust black species, an elongated body with long wings. On close inspection observe upstanding hairs on the sides of the face below the “nose”.
Flight season… April to September
Occurs…Common throughout mainland Britain and Ireland.
Habitat…. Prefers damp woodlands, stream-sides and vegetation areas beside pathways and roads. Also likes to bask on sunny leaves often on low-growing vegetation. Males patrol territories from sunlit perches, but do not hover with any regularity.
The larvae feed on the roots and stems of Common Figwort. The adults visit flowers of the larval foodplants.
Images of male below
