Awkward Clusterfly - Pollenia rudis

The typical cluster fly Pollenia rudis is about 7 mm long, has short golden-coloured hairs on the thorax and irregular light and dark grey areas on the abdomen. Cluster flies are typically slow moving and pass the winter as adults so are very common in early spring.

There are 8 Pollenia species in Britain, most of which require microscopic examination to key out. See ID Aids below. Pollenia rudis is generally the most common species though some of the others are also common.

• yellow hairs on thorax
• patterned abdomen
• yellow/orange rear spiracle
• dark palps
• facial ridge between the antennae
• 2 or more anterodorsal bristles on the mid tibia

Explain how you identified this fly and the key features.

In autumn, it can be commonly found sunning on sheltered fences and tree trunks.

All year round.

Cluster flies are so called because they congregate, often in large numbers, to hibernate in attics and out-houses. Its larvae parasitise earthworms.

Widespread and common in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland