Length: 2.5 to 3 mm. It is reddish brown and hairy with 5 dark spots. Elongated rahter that the typical rounded ladybird shape. 

This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However photos are always helpful to confirm your record.

Photograph required please.

Found in marshes, and at the margins of ponds and streams favouring various other reeds and rushes.

All year round, though most frequently encountered in summer months.

Overwinters in the leaf sheaths of Bulrush and reeds.

Widespread across southern and central England, more sporadic and local further north to the Scottish borders and mostly absent from the West Country. Welsh records are mostly from southern coastal regions.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland.