Narrow-cheeked Clusterfly - Pollenia angustigena

It has the golden thoracic hairs, typical of the Pollenia genus, and generally looks the same as the common clusterfly - Pollenia rudis. Both sexes have the jowls below the eyes slightly narrower than in P. rudis and average a little smaller and slimmer.

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.

• no pale hairs on the underside of the wing (at the base of the humeral crossvein)
• yellow rear spiracle
• facial keel present (between the palps)
• palps dark
• mid-tibia with one anterodorsal seta
• hind femur with pale yellowish setulae on posteroventral surface

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters.

It can be found sunning on sheltered fences and tree trunks.

Spring to autumn, and tends to be earlier than Pollenia rudis.

The larvae attack earthworms, though host preferences appear to be unknown.

Widespread, and locally common species in Britain, which can be the most abundant clusterfly in many districts, especially in spring. 

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.