Violet Black-legged Robber Fly - Dioctria atricapilla

Length: 10-12mm. This is an all blue-black robberfly with bright yellow halteres. It is the only Doctria species with all black legs. Males have prussian blue eyes. The wings are darkened towards the base, particularly in the male. The female has a golden face whereas in the male it is dark brown.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.

Around grassland where it usually rests on grass stems and sometimes in woodland rides.

May to July.

Predatory on small insects, particularly other flies and parasitic hymenopterans.

Widespread in the southern half of Britain.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.