Length 4 to 5 mm. The scutellum and pronotum are entirely black. This genus has a distinctively-shaped pronotum and the front femur has one large tooth and several small ones. The legs lack long hairs. Drymus sylavaticus is reddish brown in colour and has distinguishing long rectangular black marks which form a 'V' where the elytra come together in the middle of the back. Posterior part of the pronotum black (c.f. Drymus brunneus).

Detailed examination of the specimen is needed to identify the species.

Amongst moss, grass and leaf-litter on dryish soils.

Adults can be seen all year round.

Thought to feed on a range of plants including Black Horehound.

Fairly frequent and widespread in Britain

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.