Scarce Fungus Weevil - Platyrhinus resinosus

This is truly an odd looking creature and could hardly be confused with anything else, except perhaps the Platystomos species. The mix of dark and light areas on the elytra may vary, but the general appearance does not - the 'face' is always lighter due to a covering of pale hairs. Also known as the Cramp-ball Fungus Weevil.

This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However a photo is always helpful to confirm your record.

Woodland.

June and July are peak times for the adult.

The larvae develop inside the black fungus known as King Alfred's Cakes or Cramp Balls (Daldinia concentrica).

It is not quite as scarce as its common name would suggest. British records come mainly from England around a line from the Humber to the Severn.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 44 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.