Poecilobothrus nobilitatus
There are various groups of long-legged flies. Poecilobothrus nobilitatus belongs to a group of smaller flies. Their lifestyle is identical to that of the robber flies, even though their prey is much smaller. Some species are even used in biological farming. The tail is always curled and they have a very beautiful green metallic colour on top. They will neither bite nor sting people. Notice the curled end of the body. This actually is the reproductive organ.
It is easy to identify the male of Poecilobothrus nobilitatus. It is metallic green. The wings are dark, almost black, but the tip is white. The hairs on the thorax are arranged in two neat rows. The female may be metallic green as well, but she often has also some red colours and may be copper, bronze or red metallic on top. Her wings are light-grey and lack the white tip. The adults appear from May to August. The flies are often seen near shallow waters. They are even capable of walking on water and may rest on the surface of the water. Males may compete with eachother by waving or spreading their wings. They also wave their wings to impress the females. But they also may dance in front of the females. Poecilobothrus nobilitatus measures about 7 millimeters. It is a very common species in England and Wales. Less often seen in Scotland.
