Abia nitens

All Cimbicids are large robust insects recognisable by their five segmented antennae ending in distinctive 'clubs'. The adults of Abia nitens are spectacular metallic green-golden insects with fat bodies and shading on the wings. There is a similar species, Abia candens, which is rare.

Often seen buzzing around Devil's-bit Scabious

Usually seen between spring and summer

The larva can be found sitting openly on Scabious (usually Devil's-bit Scabious) plants between June and September. This is a big species with larvae up to 30 mm in length, which can assume a sandy background colour when they are fully grown whilst retaining the distinctive black and yellow spots.

A local species whose range is restricted by the availability of its food plant. Mainly found in southern England and some Welsh coastal regions.

Local and quite uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland.