Small white and black patterned soldier fly with a body length approx. 4 - 5.5mm and a pointed facial snout. Males and females appear different. Can be easily confused with N. notatus and N. uliginosus in having a pied male and a female with pale markings on the tergites. Sternites and sides of thorax need to be observed in order to separate the species.

Nemotelus notatus and Nemotelus uliginosus

Unless identified by a recognised expert, clear images taken from various angles are required. If the image doesn't show all of the key ID features, describe the size and identifying characteristics you have observed.

Generally a species of fens, marshes, damp meadows and seepages, but may also occur in coastal marshes and dune slacks

Peak time to see adults on the wing is June to August.

Rare and Nationally Scarce.   The majority of records are from the southern half of the UK, with an eastern bias.