Yellow-legged Centurion - Sargus flavipes

Body length: 7-9 mm. Most specimens have yellow legs, though some are darker. It is smaller than S. bipunctatus, the only other similar species with yellow legs. Males have a green abdomen and thorax, whilst females have a black abdomen often with some purple reflections.

Sargus bipunctatus also has yellow legs but is much larger (12-13mm) compared to the smaller S. flavipes (7-9mm).

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.

It likes to sunbathe on foliage in sheltered locations, such as at the edge of meadows and woodland.

Mid-May to mid-October (peaking in August)

Larvae have been found in cow dung but also in pasture soil.

Widespread in Britain but sometimes scarce.

Infrequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.