Entomobrya nivalis

About 2 mm in length but sometimes more. This group is characterised as having an enlarged fourth abdominal segment. Entomobrya nivalis is pale yellow with burgundy markings. The 'U' shaped markings at the end of the abdomen is complete, unlike E. intermedia where the 'U' is missing the 'corners'.

E. intermedia is frequently confused with E. nivalis but they can be separated by close examination of the abdominal markings.Photo comparison (E. nivalis above, intermedia below). Diagrammatic comparison.

Submissions need to show dorsal pigmentation clearly. 

Anywhere where food can be found including compost heaps and leaf litter.

All year round.

Feeds on living and dead vegetation.

Common throughout Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.