Quick Facts

Scientific name:  Biblio marci

Size:  Males are about 12mm long, and the females are around 14mm long

Distribution:  Found throughout the U.K.

Months seen:  April to June.  These hairy little insects are named after St. Marks day, 25th April, when they appear with amazing regularity.  They often all disappear after just a fortnight

Habitat:  Hedgerows, gardens, woodland edges and fields

Food:  Nectar.

Special features:  St. Mark's flies fly in a sluggish manner above hedgerows and grass, with their long legs dangling down.  Adult flies help with the pollination of fruit trees, while their larvae feed on leaf mould.

Related Pages

• UK Safari Flies Section
• UK Safari Invertebrates Section
• Identify other wildlife
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