This is a fairly large, dark blue blowfly. It will often fold its wings tightly over the abdomen at rest which can lead to confusion with the similar Protocalliphora azurea. However P. terraenovae can be separated by its much darker colour and the absence of any dusting on the thorax.

Protocalliphora azurea.

Seems to prefer exposed habitats such as dunes and moors.

Throughout the year but peaking May-August.

The larvae normally develop in carrion but may also feed within the tissues of living mammals.

Frequent in Wales and Scotland but scarce in the Midlands and South.

Believed to be scarce in Leicestershire and Rutland. Prior to the Spearwort Fields record there had been just one other sighting in our counties at Grace Dieu Wood in 2011.