Posted by nick upton on 06-04-2012 16:30
#1
Awful photo (couldn't get anywhere near these very alert flies, so this is a huge crop) but distinctive iridescent orange bulbous head, visible as they flew. I may be able to get closer another time as I'll be returning to this site. Maybe Gonia picea or is a MUCH better photo needed to be sure of anything?!
12mm MArch 27th Sandy heathland, Bedforshire
Edited by nick upton on 06-04-2012 16:31
Posted by ChrisR on 07-04-2012 13:27
#2
Gonia picea - seems to be having an excellent year across England ... I saw them for the first time in the field this Spring in a locality that hadn't had them before ... in good numbers too. I am guessing that they like warm, dry Springs ;)
Posted by nick upton on 07-04-2012 14:57
#3
Many thanks Chris. Almost a first for me to ID a tachinid correctly - and from a dodgy pic. too. Will try to get closer next time I'm on the heath.. I saw lots there when it was warm and hope it will be again soon...