Scorpion fly
Panorpa communis
Conservation status: Green – Common
When to see: May to September
About
The scorpion fly is a fascinating insect found in gardens, hedgerows, and woodland edges, particularly among stinging nettles. The scorpion fly’s unique appearance is characterised by a long, beak-like projection from its head, used for feeding. This insect is a scavenger that feeds on dead insects and often steals the contents of spider webs. The scorpion fly gets its name from the scorpion-like tail that the male uses in courtship displays. Although adults usually mate at night, mating can be a dangerous game for the male, who risks being killed by the female. To avoid this fate, the male presents the female with a nuptial gift, such as a dead insect or a mass of saliva, the equivalent of a box of chocolates! After mating, the female scorpion fly lays eggs at the surface, where the larvae will live and pupate. The scorpion fly is a unique and intriguing insect that adds to the diversity of the natural world.
| See also different: | Garden flies |
