Thread subject: Diptera.info :: Picture-winged fly (Tephritidae) for ID, please

Posted by Neil Fletcher on 27-01-2012 17:03
#1

Hello,

I wonder if anyone can help, please?

I'm new to the forum and have been struggling to identify what I presume to be a picture-winged fly (Tephritidae).

It was taken on rank chalk grassland in Berkshire (VC22), in the UK on 13-July-2011

I have attached a couple of pictures.

Best wishes

Neil

Posted by Jason G on 27-01-2012 17:20
#2

It's Tabanidae, though certainly a fly with pretty wings!

Edited by Jason G on 27-01-2012 17:23

Posted by Paul Beuk on 27-01-2012 17:37
#3

Chrysops relictus

Posted by Jason G on 27-01-2012 17:43
#4

Ha! Just what I was going to say. I have no literature or hands-on experience with these despite the presence of horses nearby, hence my retiscence to commit to anything.

Posted by Neil Fletcher on 27-01-2012 18:10
#5

Many thanks Jason and Paul, for the quick reply.

I will try to look in the correct family next time!

Best wishes

Neil

Posted by Jason G on 27-01-2012 18:30
#6

Have you got a copy of British Soldierflies and their Allies? I believe a key exists in their for Tabanidae.

Don't forget, when you have a specimen as opposed to just a field-photo, you have everything you need to identify it from scratch.

Look for the Field Studies Council key to British Diptera by DM Unwin, which will take you through to family-level. You'll then need to look-up more specialist books that cover it.

Don't forget to ask for further assistance if you need it.

Edited by Jason G on 27-01-2012 18:32