Length 8 to 10 mm. This is a fairly large, oval species that is uniformly black, but there are other similar members of this family, so detailed examination is necessary.

Associated with horse and cattle dung.

All year round, but commonest in summer.

Widely distributed throughout the British Isles although less frequent in the north, it is generally quoted as local but may be common where found.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. There were a total of 11 VC55 records for this species up to March 2015.