Cantharis pellucida (Soldier Beetle)

Cantharis pellucida is a common Soldier Beetle, with a red thorax and legs and black or grey wing cases.

It can be seen from early May through to July in hedgerows and meadows. They are often found on Hawthorn flowers and various umbellifers, where they feed on nectar and pollen and predate small insects.

The larvae resemble small velvety caterpillars and are found at the base of long grass. They predate ground dwelling invertebrates, such as slugs and snails.

Common throughout most of Britain.