Chalk Snailkiller (Dichetophora obliterata)

At first I mistook this for a Robber Fly, but on further exploration I discovered, despite there being little information, it is one of 72 known Snail-killers in the UK, and one which thrives on the chalkland in which my home town is so rich.

It was quite difficult to reach and I didn't want to disturb it but this video gives you a pretty good view and further information.

I managed the ID with the help of one of the foremost experts in the field. Twitter has its uses.

comments (9)

Claire Hamilton

Lion

Really cool find Philip! Posted 4 years ago
1. Philip Booker
  
  Lion
  
  Claire
  
  Thank you. I wasn't looking for it, but there was a plant/shrub I didn't recognise, so I took a closer look and there it was, deep among the leaves, with a little sun poking through. Posted 4 years ago
2. 1. Claire Hamilton
    
    Lion
    
    Wow, really lucky, but still well done! Posted 4 years ago

Ferdy Christant

Lion

Excellent work! Posted 4 years ago
1. Philip Booker
  
  Lion
  
  Cheers, one of those lucky spots.
  
  Learned a lot about Snailkillers in the process, which is what its all about. Posted 4 years ago

Ruth Spigelman

Lion

Fascinating, a new type of fly for me, thank you Philip. I'm amazed there is still invert activity in November back home? What are your day time temps right now? (I grew up in Dorset, appreciate it can be warmer there in the south of the country). Posted 4 years ago
1. Philip Booker
  
  Lion
  
  Hi Ruth
  Diptera are a fascinating group, considering there are so many around us at any one time, most of which we miss.
  
  After a prolonged period of rain and average November temperatures of between 4c & 10c, they are back up to 15c in Brighton today and for the next few days.
  
  I have my bikini ready to go. :-) Posted 4 years ago
2. 1. Ruth Spigelman
    
    Lion
    
    Ha, I remember those heady temps back home. In this part of Australia, we don't get down to 15C, even in winter. Takes some getting used to, as does having a June birthday in winter now instead of summer. Posted 4 years ago
  2. 1. Philip Booker
      
      Lion
      
      I remember a Christmas in Melbourne in 1995.
      Very odd, it was.
      
      My Sister was a 'Ten pound Pom' .
      
      Australia got the worst part of the deal:-) Posted 4 years ago