| SCIENTIFIC NAME: | TACHINA GROSSA |
| VERNACULAR NAME: | GIANT TACHNID FLY |
|
| Fig 1 |
| DESCRIPTION | Up to 19mm. This sizeable beast is the largest Tachnid fly in Europe and is easily recognised by its glossy, hairy abdomen and thorax , its snouted orange-yellow head and the amber-edge to the leading part of the forewing. |
| BEHAVIOUR | The female parasitises other insect larva and lays her eggs inside them. The Oak Eggar moth larvae are a particular favourite. |
| DISTRIBUTION | Mainly southerly in Britain. |
| HABITAT | Generally gardens, meadows and open heaths. |
| PERIOD | July to August. |