Argyra leucocephala

5-6mm. Argyra species can be recognised by the row of 3 or more bristles on the outer face of the hind coxa (except A. vestita which has 2). Males are also noticeable in flight by their silvery appearance - a feature that depends on the angle of light.

Males: When not showing as silvery white, the abdomen of A. leucocephala has a yellow and black pattern. The thorax is metallic green but can also become silvery and the scutellum is bare on the surface disc. The face is black. Legs are yellow but apically black on the hind femora and tibia.

Females: The thorax is metallic green and the abdomen bronze-green with pale lateral patches on tergites 2-4. The face is white.

• 5.5-7mm

Males:

• yellow and black patterned abdomen which becomes silver when the angle of light changes
• scutellum bare on the disc and with 4 marginal bristles
• hind femur without a pre-apical bristle
• face black when viewed from above (not silvery white)
• abdomen with silvery gloss when light changes, otherwise with yellow side patches
• inner face of third antennal segment not longer than wide

Females:

• scutellum bare on the disc and with 4 marginal bristles
• face silvery white
• thorax metallic green
• abdomen bronzy with pale lateral patches on tergites 2-4
• legs largely all yellow
• the first segment of the hind tarsus no longer than t5he second

Damp habitats, mainly in woodland and by hedgerows..

May - October

Appears uncommon but probably under-recorded.

Likely to be common but under-recorded.