Length: 12 mm. A rather small, dark species with very narrow alula (flap at base of the wing) and orange antennae. The female has a pattern of grey triangles on the abdomen. Both sexes have one eye band.

Like most tabanids, it prefers woodland or woodland edge habitats,particularly those associated with streams or marshy grassland.

Mid-May to mid-July, peaking in late June.

It is believed to breed in boggy soil and around moss.

Widespread in southern Britain but less common that it used to be.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.