Black-horned Gem - Microchrysa polita

4.5-5.5mm. This small soldier fly has a shiny green thorax (can have a blue tint). The female has a broader abdomen and has a green vertex. It can be distinguished from other Microchrysa species by the all-black antennae.

Microchrysa cyaneiventris has a black abdomen and the first antennal segment is yellow.

Microchrysa flavicornis has the first antennal segment yellow (but this can be hard to see without magnification).

• 4.5-5.5 mm
• all metallic green
• antennae completely black

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't clearly show the abdomen and the first antennal segment then in the comments box describe what you have observed.

Well wooded areas, hedgerows, gardens, and other well vegetated places.

March to September.

It breeds in dung, rotting vegetable matter and compost heaps. Adults take flower nectar.

Widespread and common in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland