Tachina fera is a large (9 to 16 mm) and bristly fly with a prominent broad black stripe down the centre of an otherwise orange abdomen.

May be easily confused with Tachina magnicornis, a recent arrival in VC55.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features.

Can often be seen in moist and well vegetated locations where it feeds on umbellifers and waterside plants.

May to September.

Larvae are parasites of caterpillars and other young insects.

Common and widespread in England and Wales.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.