Length 7 to 8 mm. This is a distinctive rove beetle. It has a dark head but the antennae and legs are orange. The elytra are also orange, but the abdomen is dark brown-black.

Flies well and sometimes visits light traps.

Spring and summer.

Widespread but uncommon in Britain where it is a 'Nationally notable B' species.

Infrequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.