DESCRIPTION: Wing length 4.25 - 6mm. A small spotted species that can be easily overlooked in the field. The spots on tergites 2 of the male can be sometimes absent which can add to diagnostic problems but the extended facial profile, the shiny thorax, dark tarsal segments (except the 5th which is paler) and broad flattened tarsal segment all confirm the identity. The face is heavily dusted. BEHAVIOUR: Adults visit flowers but very rarely in great numbers. DISTRIBUTION: Found throughout Britain although distribution can be somewhat scattered. HABITAT: Woodland edges, grassy rides and rough grassland. PERIOD: April to September.
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