Body length of 8 to 15 mm. It is a deep blue-green shining metallic fly with a yellowish face and jowls which help to identify it.

Lives on woodland edges, meadows, and other places with flowers.

From May to September

It lays its eggs on carrion, which provides food for the larvae. The adults feed on pollen.

Scattered but widespread records from across Britain.

Appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland