Species details

Cheilosia vernalis (Fallén, 1817)

Biology

The larva is thought to tunnel in the stems of Yarrow Achillea millefolium, mayweeds Matricaria sp., Goatsbeard Tragopogon pratensis and sow thistles Sonchus sp. Adults are usually found on low-growing Asteraceae or white umbels in open, flowery situations such as dry grassland, heathland margins, road verges and waste ground. Also in grassy clearings in woodland and in dunes.

Distribution

Widespread and frequent in southern Britain. Less frequent in the north, with records extending to northern Scotland.